Thomas A. Ascani

Thomas Anthony Ascani passed away peacefully at the age of 92 surrounded by his loving family on August 4, 2025.

He was a lifetime resident of Canton, a 1950 graduate of Timken High School and a 1954 graduate of Ohio University. While at OU, he was a two-way standout on the gridiron and a member of the 1953 MAC championship team: a first in program history. He was also a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. After college, Tom served in the U.S. Army as a first lieutenant with the 510th Tank Battalion in Germany and continued to play football with the Iron Dukes of the 4th Armor Group.

He returned to Canton and began his professional career with Republic Steel. His passion for football continued as a referee. He became a project manager with Al Michael Construction, where he oversaw the construction of the Downtowner Congregate Housing project and became the managing partner of the facility for over 30 years. He greatly valued his friendship with the Michael family and a long-lasting partnership with David Michael.

Fulfilling his desire to serve the community, he was a Canton city councilman in ward 11, Canton's service & safety director during the administration of Mayor Sam Purses, and member of the Canton Civil Service and Stark County Regional Planning Commissions. As well as memberships in the Canton Jaycees, Loyal Order of Moose and Knights of Columbus.

Tom will always be remembered for his physical & mental fortitude and his enduring love for his family. Survived by his sons: Tom Ascani and Todd (Amy) Ascani; daughter: Tracy (Bryan) Rice; brother Gene (Janet) Ascani; sister-in-law Phyllis Ascani; grandchildren: Michael, Mark, Anna, Gabriella, and Anthony Ascani and J.T. Rice. Preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Filomena Ascani; brother, Roger and his beloved wife of 62 years, Jean.

He shared his love of the outdoors with his family and greatly enjoyed his hunting and fishing trips with them. In his later years, he enjoyed attending mass at the Sancta Clara Monastery and breakfast with lifelong friends Dan Sturia, Gerry Patrick, Jan Paulus and his Godson Danny Sturia at Variety's restaurant where he was always treated like family.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Angels at the Aultman Compassionate Care Center.

The family will hold a private memorial mass. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sancta Clara Monastery, 4200 N. Market Ave., Canton, OH 44714 or The Aultman Foundation, 2600 Sixth Street SW, Canton, OH 44710.