Thomas Roy Grim

Thomas R. Grim, 82, of Massillon, passed away on October 28th, 2024. Thomas was born in Massillon, Ohio on August 15, 1942 to the late Paul and Irene (Lappin) Grim.

Tom grew up in Massillon and attended St.Joseph’s Elementary School. He was a 1960 graduate of Canton Central Catholic High School. Following graduation he and several close friends traveled Route 66 to Santa Monica to live the California lifestyle. He then joined the US Army and served as a Military Police soldier for 2 years. Upon his return to Massillon he attended Kent State University and earned his Associate’s Degree in History.

Tom then began an apprenticeship and was a member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 94. As a Journeyman plumber he taught first year students and remained active in the union for 56 years.

Tom enjoyed fishing at Lake Erie, the Brewster Angler’s Club and at Rice Lake in Canada. He wintered in Sarasota, Florida and spent his time golfing and reading on the beach at Siesta Key. He enjoyed showing his 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air at Classic car shows around Ohio. Tom attended Massillon Tiger football and basketball games for many years. He raced cars at Midvale Speedway in the 1970’s (#88) and liked watching Nascar races both in person and on tv. Tom traveled throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.

He was a member of VFW Post 3124 and Eagles 190.

Tom will be remembered for his dry and witty sense of humor, his willingness to help others, and his love of classic cars and classic rock. He instilled a love for both in his children for which they are very grateful.

“Well my time went so quickly

I went lickety-splickly out to my old '55

As I drove away slowly, feeling so holy

God knows, I was feeling alive

And now the sun's coming up

I'm riding with Lady Luck, freeway cars and trucks

Stars beginning to fade, and I lead the parade

Just a-wishing I'd stayed a little longer

Lord, let me tell you that the feeling's getting stronger”

Eagles Ol’ 55

He was predeceased by his parents, brother James E. Grim, and brother Russel J. Grim.

He is survived by his daughter Kelly A. (Matthew) Ebersbach of Millersport, Ohio, son David M. Grim of Stillwater, Minnesota, the mother of his children Judith A. Grim of Massillon, grandchildren Cooper M. (Sofia Durusan) Ebersbach of Columbus, Ohio, Carson M. Ebersbach of Boulder, Colorado, Morgan I. Grim of Madison, Wisconsin, Lillian M. Grim of St. Peter, Minnesota and Oliver R. Grim of Duluth, Minnesota. Also survived by his brother Michael P. (Donna) Grim and sister Joanne M. (Grim) Meyers, and several nieces and nephews. A special thank you to niece Michelle (Grim) Campbell for her constant and loving care.

The family will receive friends at Paquelet Funeral Home on Friday, November 8th from 2pm-4pm, with Military Honors and a Memorial Service immediately following. Interment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery will be at a later date.