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With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Thomas J. Leukart, Sr., affectionately known as Tom-Thom, Mr. Wonderful, Lukey, Dad, Te-Ta-Terrific and Thommy. Thom leaves behind a tapestry of cherished memories and enduring connections. His life was a testament to the power of love, care, laughter, hope and the forging of meaningful bonds.
Born on February 26, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio, Thom's journey was marked by profound milestones and deep devotion to his passions. Preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Dorothy Leukart; his in laws, Margaret and John McKenney; his brothers, Ronald and Walter "Bud" Leukart; sister in law, Sandra Leukart and his brother in law, Jack Mckenney.
Thom's academic journey led him through the infamous halls of his beloved Bexley High School, where he graduated with the class of 1964. Thom enjoyed his ongoing lunches and conversations with many of his ‘64 classmates, go Bexley Lions, forever! Thom’s higher education culminated in his status as an alumnus of The Ohio State University and a graduate of Franklin University. Thom’s commitment to family was also connected to his career path, as Thom proudly worked with his family in the machine tool and die family business’ including, Dyna-Quip, Inc., Schuler Leukart, Inc. and Ampsco Corporation.
Thom approached his sports fandom with the same fervor for life, cheering for his Cleveland Browns through both their ups and their downs. Thom's allegiance to The Ohio State University Buckeyes was unwavering, and he loved attending OSU football games for over 60 years. Thom enjoyed his service as an Ohio National Guardsman, and also found connection as a member of the Blue Lodge, 32nd Degree, Humboldt class of John E. Bricker and the Aladdin Shrine. Thom also celebrated the many connections he made through his membership at The Athletic Club of Columbus, where he enjoyed working out, sharing meals with friends and many meaningful moments with his family. Throughout all of these endeavors, Thom always found camaraderie and a sense of community. These affiliations and careers enriched his life beyond measure, a reflection of his dedication to building lifelong, meaningful connections.
Thom's explorative spirit extended on to his hobbies, most notably golfing, fishing, and a fondness for cookies that never waned. He was not only a golfer and an angler, but also a stargazer who found wonder in the simple beauties of nature all around. Thom's culinary talents also brought joy to countless social gatherings and family holiday meals, with his perfected spicy mustard, infamous cinnamon toast, incredible smash burgers and melt-in-your-mouth mashed potatoes; all of which became legendary favorites!
Beyond his hobbies, Thom's legacy was etched in the lives of his beloved family. For over 55 years, Thom was a devoted partner in crime to Jane McKenney Leukart and a proud father to Jenny (Brad) Glick and TJ (Crystal) Leukart. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Max (Chloe Heins) Glick, Sam Glick, Aidan, Parker, and Graeme Leukart. Thom is also survived by his loving brother, Dennis (Ellen) Leukart. Thom’s love extends on to family, including his sister in law, Vicki Leukart; brother in law, Patrick (Rita Statmiller) McKenney; nieces Christy Dennis, Lori (Mike) Beatty, Kim Leukart, Megan (Richard) Hirsch, Kristen (Gary) Monkman, Lisa (Marvin) Stalter, Molly (Kevin) McBrayer, Lauren (Bill) Cedoz; nephews, Jay (Maria) Leukart, Jeff (Jane) Leukart, Brett (Raye Linn) Leukart, Matt Leukart, Curt Woodworth and Pat (Rae) McKenney, Jr.
A Catholic Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 am on Friday, September 1, 2023, at the Church of the Resurrection, 6300 East Dublin-Granville Rd., New Albany, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Thom’s memory to the Bexley Education Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.
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