Thomas A. Passwaters

Thomas A. Passwaters, 92, of Willshire, Ohio, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026, at his residence.

He was born on August 27, 1933, in Willshire, Ohio, to Thomas B. Passwaters and Ida Leone (Smith) Passwaters, both of whom preceded him in death. On July 22, 1954, Tom married the love of his life Deloris I. Michael at Willshire Untied Methodist Church.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

He was a faithful member of the Decatur Church of God and a longtime member of the American Legion Post #207 in Willshire, Ohio.

Following his military service, Tom dedicated 44 years of employment to Central Soya in Decatur, Indiana, where he served as Supervisor of the Edible Oil Department for 30 before retiring in 1995. After retirement, he continued serving his community while working at Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes from 1999 until 2006.

Surviving include his wife, Deloris I. Passwaters of Willshire, Ohio; son, Larry Thomas (Mary) Passwaters of Decatur, Indiana; daughter, Lisa (Craig) Russett of Decatur, Indiana; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Deloris’ family, including sisters Nancy Blythe of Delphos, Ohio; Mary Pate of Pinckney, Michigan; Margie Conn of Eagle, Idaho; and Imogene Lacy of Bridgeport, Texas; and brothers Donald (Bonnie) Michael of Auburn, Indiana, and Eugene (Cindy) Michael of Woodburn, Indiana.

Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Tedd E. Passwaters; grandson, Drew Passwaters; nephew, Chris Michael; and members of Deloris’ family, Arden Blythe, Russ Conn, and Larry Lacy.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at Willshire Cemetery in Willshire, Ohio, with Pastor Tom Banks officiating. Military graveside honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #43 Color Guard in conjunction with the United States Army.

There will be no visitation.

Preferred memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Decatur Church of God.

Arrangements by Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur, Indiana