Thomas Andrew Zerecheck (age 86) passed away on Saturday, August 16th, 2025, in League City, Texas, surrounded by his beloved wife, Barbara  and their four children.

He was born on March 18, 1939, in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, to Andrew Stephen and Dorothy Elizabeth Zerecheck (Stiner). Following graduation from South High School in Cleveland, Ohio, he soon met the love of his life, Barbara (Chmielewski). The two were married and shared 64 wonderful years together, raising four children along the way.

Tom—affectionately known by family and friends as “T.Z.”—was a man of many passions. A classic car enthusiast, he spent countless hours restoring vintage automobiles with precision and pride. A true music lover, he enjoyed listening to all genres of music and was a gifted accordion player. His talent led him to serve as president of the Bay Area Accordion Association, while also being an active member of the Fort Bend Accordion Club, and the National Accordion Association. He also had a lifelong love of movies, often staying up late into the night watching and critiquing films with a sharp and humorous eye.

Tom began his career as a diesel truck mechanic, where his strong work ethic and natural leadership skills quickly became evident. Over the course of 21 years with International Harvester (Truck Division), he earned multiple promotions that relocated his family from Cleveland to Canton and Brunswick, Ohio, before a transfer to Jackson, Michigan. Nearly a decade later, his career brought the family to League City, Texas, which would become their home.

Above all else, Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He devoted himself wholeheartedly to his wife, children, and grandchildren—supporting their education, careers, and passions with unwavering love and encouragement. He was their biggest cheerleader and lifelong fan. Known for his kindness, quick wit, and ability to make anyone feel like family, Tom never met a stranger. He also had a remarkable talent for fixing just about anything, a gift that benefited many friends, neighbors, and loved ones over the years.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Zerecheck; his sister and brother-in-law, Andrea and Ralph Chojnicki; his son, Thomas Zerecheck(Laura Chilton), and granddaughters, Alayna and Alexa; his son, Timothy Zerecheck; his son, Todd Zerecheck, and daughter-in-law, Suzanne, along with granddaughters, Rebecca and Natalie; his daughter, Karen Russo, and his (favorite) son-in-law, Ralph Russo, along with granddaughter, Gabriella, and grandson, Anthony.

Tom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter, music, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.