Thomas M. Durkin 1942-2024
YOUNGSTOWN — Thomas M. Durkin, 81, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024. Tom was born July 16, 1942, in Youngstown, the loving son of Bartley and Catherine Melvin Durkin, who immigrated from County Mayo, Ireland. His parents preceded him in death. Beloved husband of Pamela Jean (nee Augustine) Durkin, whom he married Feb. 5, 1966. Dear father of Thomas J. (Jennifer), Joseph B., Robert M. (Lisa), who passed March 3, 2018, and Kathleen M. His sisters, Mary Ellen Parisi (Robert) of Boston, Massachusetts, and Theresa Ann Argiro (Philip), who passed March 1, 2022. He also leaves nine grandchildren, Connor, Emily, Colleen, Nicholas, Abigail, Jill, Michael, Luke and Finn. Growing up a Durkin included a large family of aunts, uncles and cousins. Tom was a godfather, uncle and loyal friend to many.
His early years included a Catholic education at St. Edward Elementary School on the north side of Youngstown before his parents and sisters moved to the south side on Helena Avenue, where he attended Cardinal Mooney High School and graduated in 1960. After graduation, he enlisted and served in the U.S. Army 538th Division Corps of Engineers for three years and was honorably discharged in October 1964. During his time with the engineers, he was stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky and mastered the ability to operate all types of heavy equipment. There was not one type of machine he could not drive, operate or repair, as he reminded his children frequently.
Upon returning to Youngstown, he started his lifelong work with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 66, which would continue for 57 years. He held several roles including business agent, vice president and president. He was an advocate of organized labor. This included a focus on pension / welfare benefits, building trades and joint apprentice efforts across counties in Pennsylvania and Ohio. During his tenure, he also coordinated multiple committees and social functions while part of the advisory committee and retirees club.
In addition to many union-sponsored events, whether IUOE fundraisers, dinner dances or family picnics at parks including Idora Park, Geauga Lake, Idlewild Park or Waldameer Water Park, there was a constant focus on raising awareness for the benefits of the union, with no shortage of energy and dedication.
Other areas of interest and focus for his time included being a parishioner at St. Dominic since 1966, Mahoning Valley Gaelic Society, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Knights of Columbus and Youngstown Fighting Little Redmen Football, where he served multiple roles from equipment manager to president while his three sons played. He was very proud of his Irish heritage, including joining the Irish American Heritage Center, frequently enjoying the Irish radio hour on Saturday mornings and his favorite movie, which he passed on to his sons, “The Quiet Man.” Over the years, he developed a fondness for many pets, including his favorites, Mya and Kitten.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the many who helped care for him, including his caregiver Chandra, Dr. Francis Turocy and the staff at St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center.
Calling hours will be held 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2024, at Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.
A funeral Mass will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024, at St. Dominic Church, 77 E. Lucius Ave., Youngstown.
Tom will be interred in Calvary Cemetery, Youngstown.
Donations should be directed to St. Dominic Church, or Animal Charity Humane Society, 8469 Southern Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44512,
animalcharityofohio.org.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman. Family and friends of Thomas may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to leave condolences for the Durkin family.
(special notice)