Thomas (Tom) Aloys Gagel, age 83, passed away peacefully in his home on December 30, 2024.

Born on August 31, 1941 to Aloys and Margeurite, Tom lived a full and vibrant life, marked by his dedication to his family, his community, and his passions.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Sharon (Volk), his 5 children, Todd Gagel (Carol), Lisa Gagel (Stacy Roland), Brian Gagel (Marlene), Matthew Gagel (Joey) and Jennifer Caplinger (Nick), his 15 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren who will forever cherish his memory. He is also survived by his sister Jane (Bill) Brockman, Michael (Karen) Gagel, Robert (Margo Cox MD) Gagel MD, and Paul (Mary) Gagel.

He is preceded in death by his sister Ann and brother-in-law Charlie Buchanan.

Tom was a kind person, always willing to step up and help when and where needed, and his bigger than life personality touched the lives of everyone he met.

Tom was a beloved business owner, known for his hard work and dedication to repair any broken HVAC, sometimes running out at 4:00 in the morning to help local residents to restore heat or repair broken pipes so they could feed and water their livestock. He was deeply committed to the Knights of St John, Soundwaves Barbershop Chorus and the St John Church choir and his time serving on the Mercer County Commissioners will be remembered fondly.

Visitation will be held at Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Minster on Sunday January 5th from 1:00 to 5:00 and Monday January 6th from 9:00-10:00.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on January 6th at 10:30 at St John's Catholic Church in Maria Stein, where friends and family will gather to celebrate his life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to American Diabetes Association and Parkinson Research Foundation, reflecting Tom's battle with these illnesses.

Condolences may be left at www.hogenkampfh.com.