Thomas Wade "Tom" Alderfer

Celebrating the Life of Thomas Wade Alderfer
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Thomas Wade Alderfer, aged 59, who left this world on July 28, 2025. Tom was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Born in Hamilton, OH on November 27, 1965. He spent his childhood with his parents and two sisters, later moving to Fairfield after marrying his beloved wife, Jackie in 1989.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Jackie, his son, Derek, mother and father, Edward and Bernadine Alderfer; two sisters, Claudine Abdou and Tina Wilson, four nieces Delia, Sofia, Lidia Recalde, and Mariam Abdou, two nephews, Nate Wilson and Youssef Abdou, stepdaughter, Amber Mueggenberg; two grandchildren, Eric and Tyler Mueggenberg; and so many more beloved family and friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Levi and Maggie Thomas, and David and Mary Alderfer.

Tom was a man of deep faith and commitment. He loved his family and was very involved in his church. At the Trenton Mennonite Church he found his voice, singing and leading worship with the choir, teaching the Youth Sunday School, leading Bible Studies, and serving on church council.

For more than thirty years, Tom served the Village of Glendale Public Works. He and his crew members, were more than co-workers, they were good friends, working outdoors in every kind of weather, serving the community to keep the village clean and beautiful. Tom was also a well-known face as a greeter at Bass Pro, where for over twenty years he made many friends of customers and coworkers alike.

Tom was known for his caring and giving nature. He embodied patience and compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He loved working with plants and flowers, and developed natural green spaces for wildlife and pollinators throughout the Village of Glendale. Tom had a way of making everything around him bloom.

There were few places of untouched wilderness around the local area of which Tom did not know; be it a riverbed or quiet fishing spot. His son Derek remembers fondly those places his father shared as they spent years together walking, driving the countryside, and sharing stories. Hocking Hills was his happy-place to spend with his wife and son. He dreamt one day of taking a trip out West in an RV.

Join us to celebrate Tom's remarkable life at the Arlington Memorial Gardens, 2155 Compton Road, Cincinnati, 45231 on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 (follow the blue line upon entering the memorial park). The Celebration of Life will begin with a visitation at 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM, leading into a graveside service at Arlington, 1:00 PM, where he will be laid to rest in the Garden of Sunrise.

In remembrance of this extraordinary man who touched the lives of many, let us come together to share our stories and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. In the spirit of Tom, let love and kindness continue in all our hearts.