Thomas Lavelle

Warren – Thomas Michael "Level" Lavelle, 86, of Howland, passed away peacefully on June 29th, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 6, 1938, in Warren, Ohio, he was the son of John A. and Irene Lavelle. On September 12, 1964, he married the love of his life, Beverly Bazel Lavelle, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years. Thomas was a proud graduate of Howland High School, Class of 1956. In 1962, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and deployed to Kaiserslautern, Germany, where he served with the 7th Cavalry and drove a tank. A dedicated and respected professional, Thomas worked as a Parts Manager for over five decades. His career included 26 years at Stiver Chevrolet in Niles, 15 years at Jim Pace Chevrolet in Niles, and 16 years at Banks Chevrolet in Champion. He was known for his deep knowledge, work ethic, and commitment to helping others. Thomas had a lifelong passion for cars. He was the neighborhood mechanic and always happy to lend advice to fellow car enthusiasts. He was also an avid fan of sprint and late model auto racing, serving on pit crews for local racers including Bob and Lou Blaney. In 2016, he was honored with induction into the Twin State Auto Racing Club Hall of Fame. Above all, Thomas was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Family meant everything to him. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Margaret Clark; his brother, John "Jack" Lavelle; and his beloved wife, Beverly. He is survived by his sons: Thomas P. Lavelle and wife Linda, of Seattle, WA, and Michael J. Lavelle and wife Heather, as well as his cherished grandchildren: Ian, Abbey, Elizabeth, Ava, Oskar and Leo. In accordance with Thomas's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no calling hours, and private services were held by the family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Lavelle, please visit our floral store.