Thomas I. Sperry

Thomas I. "Tom" Sperry, 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 25, 2025. Born on August 4, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Tom was the son of the late Charles and Ethel (Wilkinson) Nicolosi.

A proud graduate of Marion Harding High School, Class of 1960, Tom went on to serve his country as a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam War. His dedication and courage were a source of pride to all who knew him.

On April 21, 1967, Tom married the love of his life, Mary Jane (Hanchey) Sperry. Together, they shared 58 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and family.

Tom built a respected career at Whirlpool Corporation, where he worked for 30 years as a supervisor and buyer. He was known for his leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

Tom was an avid nature lover. He spent many hours exploring Killdeer Plains and was a passionate bird watcher. Fishing was one of his greatest pleasures, and he never missed his annual fishing trip to Canada.

He also had a remarkable talent for woodworking and carpentry, known for his attention to detail and craftsmanship. Tom loved sharing his skills with his two sons, passing down not just knowledge but a love for building and creating.

An avid sports fan, Tom especially loved his Ohio State Buckeyes. Friday nights were often spent restlessly anticipating Saturday's football matchups, and his post-game analysis, especially treasured by his youngest son will be fondly remembered.

Tom was deeply loved by his family and was blessed with close relationships with his children and six grandchildren. They cherished every moment spent talking, learning, and laughing with Grandpa. He had a gift for making them feel loved and valued, always eager to learn about each of them and their interests. He and his brother John shared a very close bond since childhood, sharing laughter and support through many seasons of life.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Jane Sperry of their home; his children, Lora Sperry-Watson of Toledo, OH, David (Dawn) Sperry of High Point, NC, and Johnny (Beth) Sperry o Marion, OH; six grandchildren-Morgan, Jake, and Hannah Watson, Ricky Robinson, Allister and Hudson Sperry; his sisters Jo Ann Nicolosi-Rowland and Tina Nicolosi-Seiter, and his brother, Sammy Nicolosi.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his deep love for family, and the legacy kindness, craftsmanship, and curiosity he leaves behind.

The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice and all the wonderful caregivers that helped care for Tom in the last few years.

Private graveside services will be held at Marion Cemetery.

The Snyder Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family during this difficult time, on line condolences may be expressed to the family at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com