Thomas C. Graffius, age 92, passed away on May 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in South Fork, Pennsylvania, and was the last surviving child of George and Christina (Henderson) Graffius.

Thomas began his working life in the coal mines of Pennsylvania before enlisting in the United States Air Force at the age of 19. He served during the Korean Conflict, where he trained as an Air Traffic Control Specialist—a profession he would continue for the rest of his career. After his honorable discharge, Tom worked as an Approach / Departure Tower Controller at the Pittsburgh Airport before moving to Ohio to work at the Oberlin Air Traffic Control Center. He retired after 34 years of dedicated service and felt fortunate to have had a career he truly loved.

An avid golfer, Tom achieved an impressive 10 holes-in-one, including two in a single nine-hole round. He was a passionate history buff, a devoted reader of Louis L'Amour, and enjoyed working out at LCCC and spending time with the "Coffee Clutch" group.

He is survived by his son, Scott (Laurie) Graffius; daughters, Tracy Pustay (David) and Terri Graffius (Margie); granddaughter, Heather Starinieri (Jordon); grandson, Jared Graffius; great-grandchildren, Nolan and Isla Starinieri; and his best friend, Carol Davies.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Traila; brothers, Calvin, Bill, Jim, and Clyde; and sisters, Margaret Diamond, Vada Shipley, and Marion Lesser.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Elyria.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity or organization of your choice.

A private burial will be scheduled with the family at a later date.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Life Care and The Abbewood for their kind and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com.