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BORN
1943
DIED
2024
John Deet Obituary
John Thomas "Tom" "Pop-Pop" Deet, beloved husband, life-partner, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home, on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, with his loyal & loving wife of 60 years, Sue and closest family with him.
Throughout his life, he exemplified what it meant to be a true friend, partner, patriarch, leader, advocate, ally, provider and protector.
Tom was born in Ridgway, Pennsylvania on August 24th 1943, eldest brother to sisters Betsy and Janie. There he grew up as a popular youth who excelled in sports and community events. That same small hometown is also where he met his forever bride-to-be, Sue (nee Erickson) in kindergarten and started dating as young teenagers. They have been by each other's side ever since.
Tom lived a fascinating and fulfilling adult life – dedicated to uplifting his family, fighting for social & civil rights causes, and trail-blazing innovative medical equipment & diagnostic technologies.
Personally, he enjoyed outdoor adventures & activities, hosting family gatherings, traveling, watching his Cleveland Browns, and playing racquetball (until age 80!!). But what he and Sue enjoyed most is spending quality time together at their beautiful log cabin remotely nestled within the scenic woods of Pennsylvania.
Tom and Sue celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary on Feb. 1st, 2024. They have five children: Kevin, Lori, Kristen, Michael and Takaisha. Twelve grandchildren: Christopher, Alex, Jacob, Sydney, Jason, Marley, Ava, Devon, Kaley, Giancarlo, Annabelle, and Faye. They recently welcomed to the world a newborn great-grandson, Jasper.
Tom's contributions to this world are incomparable and his legacy will shine eternally through his family and the indelible memories which they all share with and about him. His existence will be celebrated today and for generations to come. His classic, reassuring words to Sue forever remembered, "It'll Be Fine."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Deet
Ron Esser
June 7, 2025
Dear Sue,
I loved Tom very much. I admired him as my big brother. He was my room mate in Gannon, we were Science majors and my best friend. Our life´s path diverged I thought of Tom and you often. My love to you and the family. I lost Mary Jane to cancer in 2007.
Love you
Ron
Susan Crichton Ury
June 8, 2024
Dear Sue and Family,
So sad to read of Tom´s passing!
Not hard to believe what a wonderful legacy he will leave for your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Sue
Mary Lou Bruner Jessop
May 23, 2024
Sue, Betsy and family,
So sorry to read of Tom's passing. Sending love and prayers to you and your family.
Mary Lou Bruner Jessop
Jim Kriegel
May 21, 2024
As a teenager in Ridgway I learned to recognize good character when I encountered it. That was Tom. I recognized him at a medical convention more than a decade later. While he didn´t remember a kid two years younger, the character was still much in evidence. I´m old enough now to know that Tom was what you hope for when raising sons.
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Mary Ann Ilconich Abplanalp
May 21, 2024
Dear Janie and Betsy:
I am truly sorry for the loss of your your dear brother.
I send you both gentle hugs and all my love.
Mary Ann Ilconich Abplanalp
Austin,Texas,formally from Ridgway,Pa.
Marv Goldstein
May 12, 2024
So sorry to hear of your loss of Tom. He will be missed by many including his racquetball friends. Sending hugs & prayers.
Marv Goldstein
alex barclay
May 11, 2024
Tom and Sue Deet epitomized the Heights. kindness, openness, encouragement. we were all so lucky to know him. sending our love and condolence's at this sad time. The Barclays
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