Thomas Edward Waters

Thomas Edward Waters, age 74, of Gnadenhutten, died peacefully, Monday, October 28, 2024, while in the care of Ohio Hospice’s Truman House at New Philadelphia.

Born in Twin City Hospital at Dennison on March 30, 1950, Tom was a son of the late Richard and Edna Narney Waters and was a graduate of Claymont High School.

Tom worked for a number of years at the former Bar-Met and spent the majority of his career as a heavy equipment operator for INCA Pallets at Dover, where he worked for nearly 40 years prior to his retirement.

Tom’s faith was rooted in the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shaping his character and values. Known as a “gentle giant,” he embodied kindness and generosity, always the first to lend a hand to friends, neighbors, and even strangers in need. Armed with his trusty Stihl chainsaws and log splitter, he tirelessly helped others prepare for the winter, never hesitating to put aside his own tasks to assist those around him.

A true lover of life, Tom embraced every moment. His early years were filled with adrenaline as he drove stock cars and rode motorcycles. He found peace and joy in the great outdoors, often fishing on the Muskingum lakes, and exploring the beauty of Canada and New York. Winter months were filled with stacking wood indoors to heat his home and experiencing the thrill of hunting in the woods.

But above all, Tom’s heart belonged to his family. He cherished every moment spent with his seven grandsons, who brought him immense joy and pride. His life was a testament to love, hard work, and the importance of community, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Tom will be missed by his wife, the former Twyla Hoffman, whom he married on June 5, 1971; their children, Richard Waters of Uhrichsville, and Heather (Chad) Stokey of Tuscarawas; grandsons, LCpl, Bronz Waters, USMC, Terrin Waters, Tre Stokey, Kaleb Stokey, Aiden Stokey, USAF, and Lucas Stokey; two sisters, Sheryl (Nick) Coletti of Uhrichsville, and Vickie Matheson of Tennessee; a brother-in-law, Butch Hoffman of Texas and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by a grandson, Isaac Stokey; a brother, Richard Waters; a sister, Sandy Pounds; his in-laws, Ilene and Jay Hoffman and a brother-in-law, Robert Hoffman.

A private inurnment will take place in the Ridgecrest Memorial Gardens at Dover. A celebration of Tom’s life is being planned for April of 2025. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s name may be directed to Ohio’s Hospice, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601