Thomas J. Zmecek

Thomas J. Zmecek, age 85, of Madison, passed away Thursday, May 23, 2024 at Louis Stokes VA Medical Center. He was born September 26, 1938 in Painesville the son of Michael and Charlotte (Burr) Zmecek. Tom proudly served in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Riverside High School in 1956. Tom spent his entire life lending a hand to others because he truly enjoyed people and trying to make a difference. He was an example of how to be a friend and mentor and cared passionately for his family, friends and making an impact on his community. He retired from Lubrizol after thirty years as a foreman, but also served on Lubrizol’s fire department and rescue squad. He was still working at the Lake County Veterans Service Commission at the time of his passing, and he often stated it was “the best job he ever had.” He was an active member of VFW Post 7754 in Fairport where he held several positions throughout the years including commander. In 2019 he was awarded the James Romanis Award by the Ohio VFW for outstanding service. He was a charter member of the Colonial Justice Chambers Marine Corp League and very active in their Toys for Tots program. Tom was also a favorite “Santa Claus” for many organizations and family events. He is survived by his children, Guy (Pat) Williams, Lon (Kim) Williams, Lynn (Joe) Jackson, Lori (Paul) Guzzi, and Missy Sine; grandchildren, Katie, Michael, Candice (Tony), Joseph, Joshua (Samantha), Rakayla (Andrew), Sheila (Joe), Shannon, Christina, and Sara; 11 great grandchildren; his sister, Mary Lette and many extended family and friends for which Tom consistently bragged about. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ann Zmecek; his parents; grandchildren, Faith and Andrew; and brother, Tim. The family would like to give special thanks to all who helped over the last few months and especially Hero’s Harbor Hospice for their loving care. Friends will be received 5-8 pm Wed. May 29th at the Behm Family Funeral Home, 26 River St., Madison. Funeral Service will be 11 am Thurs. May 30th at the Funeral Home with Military Honors. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com. The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Toms name to The Fairport Harbor Veterans Memorial. Checks may be made payable to Fairport Harbor Veterans Boosters and mailed to VFW Post 7754, 540 New Street, Fairport Harbor OH 44057.