Thomas Lee Ankrom

Thomas "Tom" Lee Ankrom, 86, passed away peacefully at the Pickering House on Thursday, December 18, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished, following complications from a stroke.

Tom was born on November 29, 1939, in Bremen, Ohio. He graduated from Bremen High School (Rushcreek Memorial) in 1958 and soon after joined the U.S. Navy where he proudly served four years on the U.S.S. Sierra.

On August 18, 1960, Tom married his lifelong partner and best friend, Sharon Moyer. Together they built a beautiful life, celebrating sixty-five years of marriage this past summer. They are members of the Bremen Bethel Presbyterian Church, where they served as Elders. Tom and Sharon found winter respite in Naples and Venice Beach, where they enjoyed sunshine, laughter, and the company of many dear friends and family. Their love and faith were the foundation of a family that brought Tom endless joy.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Lucy Ankrom; his brother, Don Ankrom; his half-brothers, Jack and Kenneth Ankrom; brother-in-law, David Siefert; and his beloved grandson-in-law, Zack Pahl.

He leaves behind his devoted children, Julie (Jim) Wildermuth of Millersport and Scott (Laura) Ankrom of Akron, along with a large and loving extended family. His grandchildren-Fallon, Erica (Jenn), Justin, Tyler, Mitch, Jess (Jennifer), and Stacy-and great-grandchildren-Olivia, Kimble, Kase, Lily, Hannah, Luke, and Alexander-were the light of his life. Tom is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Carolyn Jo Ankrom and Dottie Siefert, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Tom and Sharon owned the Bremen Variety Store and 'Tom's' Sandwich Shop from 1971 to 1987, where they served their community with kindness. He also worked for many years at the Village of Bremen Water and Wastewater Department.

Tom enjoyed life's simple pleasures-golfing with his family and his Pumpkin Vine buddies, tending to his yard, feeding the birds, and polishing anything that needed a shine. His hands were always busy, and his heart was always open. Tom was a friend to everyone, and you knew you were truly "in" when he gave you a nickname.

A celebration of Tom's life, officiated by Rev. Larry Hoffman, will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Bremen Bethel Presbyterian Church, 142 Purvis Avenue, Bremen, Ohio 43107. Calling hours will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Pickering House, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, OH 43130, in honor of their wonderful caretakers and volunteers, or to the Bremen Bethel Presbyterian Church.

Tom's legacy is one of love and devotion to family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.