Tom Zwierlein Obituary
Tom dedicated his life to education for nearly three decades, teaching ceramics at The Lovett School in Atlanta. His teaching career also included significant tenures at Anderson Ranch Art Center, Callanwolde Arts Center, the University of Kentucky, The Penland School, the Hambidge Center, and The Georgia High School Governor's Honors Program.
Known for his infectious passion for pottery, Tom cherished every opportunity to share his love for the craft with his students. His commitment to teaching and genuine care for his students made a profound impact, leaving an indelible mark on countless individuals. Tom's artistic talent and kindness created a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will be fondly remembered by those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy as an artist and educator will undoubtedly continue to influence and inspire future generations.
Tom is survived by his brother, Tim Zwierlein, and Tim's wife, Dawn, from North Canton, Ohio. He also leaves behind Tim's daughter, Marie, and her husband, Mathew Williams, who reside in Doylestown, Ohio. Additionally, Dylan, Dawn's daughter, and her husband, Patrick, live in Berea, Ohio. Further surviving him are Dawn's son, Kenny Rickelman, and his wife, Shelby, who reside in Aurora, Colorado. His sister, Nancy Petrinski, residing in Geneva, Ohio, also survives him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Anderson Ranch Art Center and Callanwolde Arts Center in Tom's name, honoring his lifelong commitment to the arts and education.
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Tiffany Parks
August 7, 2025
Tom you were such a great spirit. We used to have great talks at Atkins Park. You were such a creative spirit and fun guy. You are missed.
Patti Wells
April 25, 2025
So very sorry to see this news. My condolences to Tom's family and friends. He was so talented! I bought several of his pieces and enjoy coffee everyday out of my favorite mug made by him....He lives on through his work and students!
cameron covert
March 19, 2025
I moved to Georgia in 1971 to teach ceramics at the Univ of West. Ga. in Carrollton; Tom was a good friend all those years; we shared our love of clay to many. He will be missed; rest in peace dear friend
Cameron Covert
Dave Thompson
March 11, 2025
So sorry and shocked to hear this! My condolences to the family and friends! RIP Tom!
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Betsy Hill-Ritchie
March 11, 2025
Tom, was one of the baby faced boys in our class. Always youthful and young looking, even into older age. I am glad for his great life, and the legacy and love he left behind. Your human body will rest in peace. Your soul energy will soar to new heights. MY deepest condolences to family and friends. And to the GHS class of 1968.
Daryle Eppley Brown
March 10, 2025
I am heartbroken to hear about Tom. We were friends in Geneva and graduated from high school together class of `68. You will be missed my friend
Anne Dijamco McGinty
March 6, 2025
Mr. Z - you were one of my favorite teachers at Lovett. We always had the best time in your art class and I loved your infectious zest and passion for fun and creativity. I remember when we made casts of our faces and had to stuff tissues into our nose, close our eyes and breathe through straws for about half an hour. I am so grateful for your spirit, your energy, and your passion for art and ceramics and for teaching us. You were truly an amazing teacher that made this world a better place.
Liz Sims
March 4, 2025
I have called Tom a friend since junior high school. He was always adorable! I was fortunate to be able to support him and his beloved business partner, Dave Norton in their first venture, Blue Sky Pottery. It was magnificent! They started out with mugs and just took off from there. Both became so successful. In the beginning it was all love and creative growth. Blue Sky was a safe place for everyone. These photos are of early pieces Tom was a gentle man, and a bit mischievous. Artists! He must have inspired hundreds of students. That will live on. Liz and Don Sims.
Cassandra Cleverly
March 3, 2025
I often drive by Anderson Ranch and I think of Tom and what wonderful contributions his teaching and demonstrations made on peers and students. Memories of Tom being in the Rockies brings a smile every time. Old friend from our growing up years in NEO. Love that I have two ceramic gifts from Tom's early years that I still treasure and use.
Cass Cleverly
Stutz (and Carla) Wimmer
March 3, 2025
Hardly a day passes where I don't think of Mr. Z as I walk past this beautiful plate he made. Carla and I have showcased it atop a cabinet in our living room for years now. Tom was a good friend and colleague with a generous and beautiful soul, genuinely dedicated to his art and the students he taught. His "potter's wit" brought joy to every encounter. I can still hear his laugh, almost as clearly as if he were sitting across from me in the Lovett dining room, as he so often was. Z was a joy. He will be missed. I will think of him often.
Katie Fee
February 28, 2025
I´ll always remember Tom. He gave me my first job. We clicked, and after I ran out of art classes I could take, he let me come into the greenhouse clay shop to work anyway. At the end of 12th grade I dressed as him for career day and he was so tickled. And, shoot, I stayed pretty close to the mark. I´m so grateful that he gave me space to be myself, taught me to set my own bars for success, and encouraged me along my path at so many big moments. I wish I could tell him again how much he´s meant to me. Thank you for everything, Tom. Rest easy.
David H. Jackson and Mary K. Herman
February 28, 2025
We knew Tom at the University of KY Art Dept. He was a joy. I can still hear his laugh.
Will Lozier
February 28, 2025
Tom's housewarming gift to me and Paige was this stunning bowl that we display prominently and use often. He was a master. As a fellow Ohio native, Tom and I hit it off immediately and I always felt a little wiser after every Lovett lunch shared or even the most brief conversation in passing. He was one of the best and I will miss him dearly.
Kristi
February 28, 2025
Tom´s artistic spirit will be missed. I am grateful for his friendship.
Gregory Mellin
February 28, 2025
Tom was my ceramics instructor initially but became a cherished friend. His welcoming warmth and enthusiasm were indeed infectious, and I am so sorry to have lost touch with him and very saddened by his passing. Rest in power TZ!
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