Thomas Michael Feser, 79, of Dunkirk entered into eternal rest on Saturday, February 28, 2026. He was born on March 25, 1946, the son of the late Robert and Jean (Bremer) Feser.
Tom was a 1964 graduate of Dunkirk High School. He was a proud U.S. Navy veteran who participated in Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica abroad the USS Mills. After his military service, he was an active member of the American Legion, where he enjoyed camaraderie with fellow veterans. Following his time in the Navy, Tom worked as a plumber for his father's family business, Feser's Plumbing and Heating, before going on to work for many years as a pipefitter at Al Tech Specialty Steel.
Tom was known by the nickname "Tommy Guns" -- not for a love of rifles, but for the Popeye-sized arms he had. He was strong as an ox and stubborn at times, but those who knew him best also knew him as a deeply loving, kind, and humble soul. He enjoyed classic cars, hunting, fishing, watching sports, and listening to oldies music. He will always be remembered for singing songs out loud in his deep voice that echoed peace and happiness throughout our childhood home. Tom also had a wonderful sense of humor, loved telling jokes, and enjoyed his "rhyme time" (if you know, you know). Above all, he was proud of his family and truly appreciated the simple things in life.
Tom is survived by three of his four daughters, Tamsen Feser (Eric) Butske of Elyria, OH, Jennifer Feser Gwyn (Clete Dodson) of Gainesville, GA and Jill Feser (Rick) Gallant of Glendale, AZ; three sisters, Barbara (Richard) Durrstein, Patricia Bennett and Susan (Allen) Parker, all of Florida; a favorite cousin, Donna Lamb (Don Rogers), also currently residing in Florida; four grandchildren, Jayden and Jaxon Butske of Elyria, OH and Cameron and McKenna Gwyn of Gainesville, GA; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Michelle Feser (Mike Schober); and his ex-wife and dear friend, Suzanne (Meyer) Feser.
Tom strongly believed in giving back. He was a longtime supporter of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Paralyzed Veterans of America. He was also an applicant in a body donation program used for medical research. In his final act of kindness, he chose to give in a way that could help others, knowing that his passing could provide some good in the world. Through this selfless generosity, his legacy will impact the future of medicine and benefit patients for years to come.
Tom was loved so very much and will be sadly missed by all of his family and friends.
At Tom's request, there will be no funeral or memorial service at this time. Family will notify loved ones in the future when a Celebration of Life ceremony will be held.
Obituary from the Observer
