Thomas Sweder 1935-2026
STRUTHERS — Thomas Sweder, 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Hospice House, surrounded by the love and presence of his family. His gentle spirit, steady kindness and unwavering devotion to those he cared for will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Born June 4, 1935, in Campbell, Thomas was the son of the late John and Catherine Popovich Sweder.
He graduated from Struthers High School in 1952, beginning a lifetime of service, community involvement and quiet leadership.
Tom proudly served his country, spending two years in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany, followed by two years in the Army Reserve.
Tom was a dedicated member of Christ Our Savior Parish-St. Nicholas Church.
He began his professional journey at Dollar Savings and Trust, where he first served as a bank teller, working his way up to assistant vice president from 1952 until 1997. His commitment to public service continued as he served as treasurer of the city of Struthers for 28 years, retiring in 2005. He also held the role of treasurer for the Public Employee Retirees, Mahoning County Chapter 18.
Throughout his career, Thomas earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike, serving as past president of both the Struthers Business Association and the Ohio Association of Public Treasurers as well as the treasurer of Dollar Bank Retirees.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Thomas was a man who found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren — Ryan, Jason, Evan and Riley — who were the light of his life. Whether cheering on the Cleveland Browns, Notre Dame or Ohio State University, or attending local sporting events, Thomas brought enthusiasm and heart to every game. He also loved bowling at the Holiday Bowl and dancing, especially at Avon Oaks Ballroom in Girard and the Mural Room in Youngstown, where he and his late wife, Mary Ann, shared many cherished evenings together.
Tom is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Christie) Sweder; daughter-in-law, Nikki Sweder; sister-in-law, Judith Terlesky; brothers-in-law, Ted (Mary Lou) Terlesky, John (Linda) Terlesky and James Kavaky; his beloved grandchildren, Ryan, Jason and Evan Sweder, and Riley Sweder; nephews, Brian Terlesky and Scott Kavaky; and a niece, Tracey Kavaky.
Along with his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, whom he married May 20, 1967, and with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. He was also preceded in death by his son, Michael Sweder; brother, John Sweder Jr.; sister, Nancy Laviolette; nephew, Todd Terlesky; and nieces, Michelle Terlesky and Allison Terlesky.
Family and friends may call 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Kirila Funeral Home Inc., 258 Poland Ave., Struthers.
A procession will depart the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 20, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Christ Our Savior Parish-St. Nicholas Church in Struthers.
Thomas will be laid to rest in Lake Park Cemetery in Youngstown.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Hampton Woods Rehab, Windsor House / Masternick Memorial Rehab, Hospice House, TLC Home Health Care, and Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Boardman / CHF Clinic and Palliative Care. They also wish to thank Dr. Edward Miller, Dr. Ashlee Russo, Dr. Walter Sweeney and Dr. Daniel Barton for their dedicated care and support.
Instead of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations be given to Hospice House in North Lima or Christ Our Savior Parish-St. Nicholas Church in Struthers.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.kirilafh.com.
(special notice)