Thomas (Tom) N. Leeser

CANAL FULTON - Thomas (Tom) N. Leeser, 74, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS. Surrounded by love, he leaves behind a legacy marked by faith, humor, generosity, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of life. Born on May 4, 1951, in Akron, Ohio, Tom was the son of Frank and Andrea Leeser, and spent many of his years living in the Highland Square area.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Gretchen; brother, John, and his dog, Bunny, and is survived by his wife of 18 years, Jana Chervenic; daughters, Katie (Mike) Adams and Krista Leeser; stepchildren, Sarah, Brandy, Jesse, and Olivia; grandchildren, Joseph, Lilly, Kaley, Grace, Connor, Brady, Karson, Selah, Hailey, and Chloe; great-grandchildren, Amari and Amiri; brother, Jeff, a host of nieces and nephews; lifelong friends, Steve, Loretta, and Doug, and extended family who loved him deeply.

Tom graduated from Akron Buchtel High School before embarking on a life filled with creativity, connection, and hard work. Many will remember him as a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating Snoogie’s Deli and Ice Cream on the Kent State University campus. He then went on to work at the Summit County Fiscal Office, where he dedicated many years of service before retiring. He then found a second calling in real estate, becoming a certified appraiser and licensed realtor alongside his wife, Jana, at Keller-Williams Chervenic Realty.

Tom was a man whose kindness radiated through the simplest of acts - a conversation with a stranger, a shared prayer for someone in need, or a gesture of generosity that often went unnoticed except by those whose lives he quietly brightened. His kind blue eyes and welcoming smile, paired with a sharp wit and signature dry humor, made him a joy to be around.

Tom was a man of many passions. He loved discovering and collecting hidden treasures at tag sales, estate sales, and yard sales, knowing each item’s story and the bargain price he paid for it. A dedicated recycler before it was fashionable, Tom enjoyed composting, growing flowers, and working in his yard until he finally reached the shade of perfectly green grass. He was a wonderful cook, avid reader, and loved architecture. He appreciated straight crisp lines, the curve of wood moulding, and the way that light would balance out shadow. He often took leisurely drives through the countryside, always savoring the simple things - blue glass, brick roads, the sound of wind chimes, lemon cherry cake, and always a good book.

From travels to Ocean City, MD with his Schtunta, to fresh fish fries in North Carolina, or along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, Tom was at peace near the water. Perhaps the happiest moments were as “Papa Tom” or “Grandpa Tom” during annual beach trips with his family, where morning beach walks, coffee talks, collecting seashells, (maybe) catching a fish, before beach games, and watching the sunset, and taking photos with family at the end of the day, brought joy to everyone. 

A proud resident of Canal Fulton for 22 years, Tom said the quiet town called to him and he felt at home. He loved its nostalgic charm, and was always happy to hear any clip-clops of a buggy being pulled down the road in the distance. With its beautiful canal paths and scenic views, Tom’s walks often turned into photography sessions, capturing the beauty of small-town life that he so dearly loved. He found great comfort in the kindness and companionship offered by his neighbors - especially his young visitor, Abby, whom he fondly considered a granddaughter.

A true man of faith, Tom’s devotion to God was unwavering. He found strength and hope in his Christianity, becoming a fisher of men, always eager to share God’s word and love. As his body grew weaker, his faith only grew stronger, reminding all who knew him that joy and grace can flourish even amid a struggle. Throughout his journey with ALS, Tom held close the words of Psalm 118:24 “This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” It became his daily battle cry and he lived it each day.

Tom’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all the caregivers, medical staff, advocates, neighbors, friends, and prayer warriors who supported them through their journey. Tom’s faith, humor, and love will forever remain a source of joy and inspiration to all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2026, from 11 AM - 1 PM, at Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, in Stow, 44224, with funeral service immediately following, at 1 PM.

A private family burial will take place thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Tom's name.