Thomas E. VanHorn Sr.

SALEM - Thomas E. VanHorn Sr., 78, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Salem North.

Thomas was born on December 15, 1946, in New Waterford, Ohio, a son of Leon and Ethel Allison VanHorn.

A lifelong area resident, Tom was a graduate of Crestview High School. A man with a very strong work ethic, Tom's professional journey began as a building painter. His career path then led him to becoming a machinist, a field in which he would spend most of his working years. For over twenty years, he honed his machinist skills at Nation Rubber Manufacturing in Columbiana. After NRM's closing, he continued his career with McNeil in Akron, and retired from Hunt Valve in Salem.

Tom found joy in drag racing at Quaker City, maintaining the family farm when they were living just outside of Lisbon, camping with family, and vacations to Virginia Beach.

Tom leaves to carry on his memory, his wife, the former Betty J. Prather, whom he married June 21, 1972; children, Thomas G. VanHorn of Salem, Thomas E. VanHorn Jr. of Kentucky, Eric (Mindy) VanHorn of Youngstown, Robert (Bobbi Jo) VanHorm of Lisbon, Steven (Megan) Zimmerman of Lisbon, Joanie (Jim) Douglas of Columbiana, and Janette (Arnold) Whitman of Salem; 19 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

In addition is parents, Tom was preceded in death by his son, Bradley VanHorn; and siblings, Violet, Ruth, Herb, Joann, Patsy, Ellen, Gwen, and Timothy.

Keeping with Tom's wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Thomas's obituary and share memories and condolences with the family, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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