Tom Ziegler, a beloved husband, brother, friend, and educator, died peacefully at the age of 63 on September 12 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tom was surrounded by his siblings, nieces and nephews, and wife Aree in the final weeks of his life.

The fifth of eight children, Tom was born on June 6, 1963, to Andrew and Virginia Ziegler in the small hamlet of Callicoon, New York. Smart, humorous, and confident, Tom made friends easily. As a young man, he enjoyed an active social life, participated in multiple sports, and always found a way to push boundaries. He possessed an endearing mischievous side to his personality and reveled in sharing stories of his wilder times as a youth to his parents and siblings. Tom had charisma in spades and knew the importance of living life outside the lines.

Following high school, Tom moved to the borough of Queens in NYC to test life in the big city. He landed a position with the NYC MTA through a close friend and quickly rose through the ranks to become a respected foreman. With his warm personality and quick wit, Tom developed a wide circle of friends in Bayside. He had an intrinsic and rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, using humor to open doors. He carried an optimism that drew people in. His life was full… Tom became engaged to Maureen Murphy, spent evenings and weekends at the local bars and at Shea Stadium rooting for the Mets, and established his credentials as a reliable, driven leader in his career. In many ways, Tom seemed unstoppable - always propelling himself forward, breaking barriers, and living his life on his own terms.

In 1987, at the age of 23, Tom suffered severe paralysis from a car accident. After months of rehabilitation, he returned to work and later moved back home to Callicoon to pursue a B.A. in Education at Sullivan County Community College. He then earned two additional Master’s degrees at SUNY Binghamton. He was determined to support himself and to ensure that his life had purpose despite ongoing physical and logistical challenges. Through tireless grit and perseverance, Tom set in motion an independent and courageous life plan to begin a new chapter in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In 1999 Tom purchased a home in Nevada with the help of his parents and launched his new life and career in the Las Vegas Public School District. His passion for learning and teaching led him to a fulfilling 30-year career as a mathematics teacher. Known for his helpful, caring nature and his interest in discovering innovative methods of teaching, Tom’s influence extended beyond the classroom, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues. Former administrators and colleagues visited Tom in his final days at the hospital to say goodbye and to share their gratitude for his leadership and imagination as an educator. Their anecdotes of working with Tom and admiration for his dedication to educating children are testaments to Tom’s character and commitment. He lived with purpose and led with optimism.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Aree, with whom he shared seven wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. Tom is also survived by seven siblings, Mary Mossman, Susanne Ziegler, Patricia Ziegler, Andrew Ziegler, Jane Whipple, Christina Ziegler and Jennifer Ziegler.

Tom’s legacy of friendship, gratitude, and commitment to others lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience, and he is dearly missed by those whose lives he touched.

In honor of Tom’s memory, donations can be made to the following organizations that provide resources for individuals with paralysis: unitedspinal.org or christopherreeve.org. His tenacious and generous spirit will continue to inspire others.

May Thomas Ziegler rest in eternal peace, forever remembered and cherished by those who love him.