Tom was a cherished husband, devoted father, and adored grandfather. His infectious humor and quick wit endeared him to all who knew him, always ready with a warm smile and a corny dad joke. An avid race fan, Tom's skill behind the wheel and his exceptional mechanical aptitude made him a standout both on and off the track. He fondly reminisced about attending the "24 Hours at Le Mans" in the 1950s and remained a lifelong aficionado of NASCAR. In his later years, he found solace and joy in kayaking, embarking on countless float trips well into his 60s and 70s.
Tom graduated from Pitcairn High School and pursued his passion for forestry at Penn State University before bravely serving overseas with the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He furthered his education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a Bachelor of Science degree, and embarked on a successful career spanning over three decades as a Westinghouse shop foreman, retiring in the 1980s.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Tom was an avid Civil War enthusiast, a skilled deer hunter, and a passionate sports car aficionado. He found immense joy in delving into his family history and actively supported the “Let’s Talk Puckey” newsletter. Tom was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church of Trafford, where he found spiritual fulfillment and community.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patricia Puckey; his sister, Marlene (Puckey) VanRyn; his son, Stacey Puckey, and daughter-in-law, Staci Lynn Puckey; his daughter, Laura (Puckey) Ference, and son-in-law, Anthony Ference; his grandson, Nicholas Ference, and granddaughter-in-law, Emma Ference; and his granddaughter, Morgan Ference. He was preceded in death by his father, Lewis Melbourne “Mel” Puckey, and his mother, Mildred Puckey.
Memorial services to celebrate Tom's remarkable life will be held on June 8, 2024, from 1 pm to 3 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28562, and on June 15, 2024, from 1 pm to 3 pm at Dobrinick’s Funeral Home, 702 7th St., Trafford, PA 15085.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom's memory may be made to Crystal Coast Hospice House, an organization that provided exceptional support to Tom and his family.
Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Thomas "Tom" Wible Puckey.
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