Thomas L. Struzinsky

Thomas L. Struzinsky, 84, of Cleveland, went to be in the tender arms of the Lord on Sunday, February 3, 2019. Tom was at home surrounded by his loving family; his wife of 60 years, Bernice (Saffles) Struzinsky; daughter, Wendy Noelck; granddaughter, Tiffany Whittle; grandson, Tyler Noelck; and other family members.

Tom was born on February 7, 1934 in Elmira, New York. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy as a star wrestler. Soon after, Tom entered the Navy during the Korean War. He began boxing in the service and became a champion Golden Gloves Boxer in 1956. Over the next twelve years, Tom both boxed and wrestled professionally throughout the country. He trained boxers and coached wrestlers until his retirement. Tom retired from the State of Tennessee where he worked in various water systems as a certified technician, and in his own business serving both residential and commercial customers. Tom also had a B. A. in Organizational Behavior from Covenant College, and worked in the mental health field for a time. Tom was a member of Elkmont Baptist Church.

Tom was a preceded in death by his adored daughter, Dwana Struzinsky.

Survivors include his loving wife, Bernice (Saffles) Struzinsky; his loving daughter, Wendy Noelck and son-in-law, Darrel Pruiett; his loving daughter, Penny Noe; his loving grandchildren, Tiffany Whittle, Tyler Noelck and Crystal (Jeremiah) Lowe; his sister, Donna (Richard) McLaury; five great-grandchildren; several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 6, 2019 in the chapel of Ralph Buckner Funeral Home with Reverend Johnny Hood officiating. The interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Tyler Noelck, Paul Noe, Anthony Gray, Darrel Pruiett, Gary Burris and Bill Saffles. A white dove release ceremony and the playing of bagpipes will conclude the service at the cemetery.

Family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at the funeral home.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Struzinsky family guestbook at www.ralphbuckner.com.