Thomas Michael Leirer, 72, of Rome, Ohio passed away on Thursday November 28th surrounded by his family in the home that he built.

Born on October 23, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Edward and Genevieve Leirer. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Lysowski; his children Olivia (Michael Carroll), and Joshua Leirer; his grandson Henry Carroll; as well as siblings, Jackie Balyer, James Leirer (Joy), Antoinette Leirer, Loretta Hutton, Richard Leirer, William Leirer (Margret Nose), and Teresa Freeman (Kevin).

He is preceded in death by his parents Edward and Genevieve and his siblings Edward and Barbra.

From childhood, Tom was curious and interested in learning how things function and looking for ways to improve them. He was deeply self-reliant and insisted on doing his own home and auto repairs until the very end. He earned a bachelor's degree from University of the State of New York and was committed to self study on the subjects of science, math, history, technology and the natural world.

After a period of traveling across the U.S. and Mexico, he settled in Rome, Ohio with his wife Sarah. A follower of Buckminster Fuller, he built a geodesic dome to raise his family in, growing much of their food in his organic gardens. A vegetarian for more than 40 years, he loved the outdoors and felt most at peace on a walk in the woods. Many of his days were spent wandering the trails of north east Ohio and camping with his family while exploring the national parks from Maine to California.

He made his living as a real estate appraiser and was a partner and co-founder of Grand Valley Appraisal Service, but defined himself by life outside of work. Drawn to the trade by its flexible hours, he prioritized time with his family and completed much of his work after his children went to bed.

He was the life of the party and was as quick to tease you as he was to come to your aid. He loved the quiet of the night and often stayed up late studying and working late writing short stories, essays and poetry. Always the last one at the campfire, he will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:30-4:30pm on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at their home, 4963 St Route 45, Rome, Ohio, with a brief service will being held at 3pm

Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services of Geneva, Ohio assisted the family with arrangements, 440-361-2273. www.LakeErieCrematory.com