Thomas J. ‘Tommy’ Kristian 1946-2023

Tommy was born Feb. 18, 1946, in Youngstown, a son of John “Christy” Kristian and Eva Nedostup Kristian, and was a lifelong area resident.

Tommy was a 1963 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School.

He began his working career at Youngstown Sheet & Tube as a laborer; he went on to work for Western and Southern Insurance Company as an insurance representative for many years. Later, Tommy began working for the Mahoning County Engineers as a truck driver.

Tommy was a member of St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Campbell and a member of the Eastern Orthodox Men’s Society for many years.

Tommy had a deep love for boxing and worked his way to becoming a professional boxer under the tutelage of Youngstown legend, Joey Carkido. He was a five-time Golden Glove Champion and two-time National AAU qualifier. He had also been inducted into various halls of fame including the Legends of Leather and Curbstone Coaches. At the conclusion of his boxing career, Tommy maintained his association to the sport as both a referee and judge.

He is survived by his loving wife, the former Balaci Kindinis, whom he married July 12, 1969; his son, John (Lisa) Kristian of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and his daughter, Nicole Drossos Kapaniris of Tarpon Springs, Fla. He also leaves his grandchildren, Tommy, Kalliope and Antoni Kristian, and Stamati and Balaci Kapaniris; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Betty Lou “Blue” Volichko.

Calling hours will be held 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Campbell. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with the Very Rev. Andrew Bartek officiating.

The Kristian family has entrusted Tommy’s care to the Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell. Visit www.waskofamily.com to view this obituary and to leave condolences with the Kristian family.

(special notice)