Thomas John Szyperski

Thomas Szyperski, age 81, passed away peacefully at home on January 5th after a short illness, surrounded by his four children.He was born on September 8, 1942 to Harry and Hattie Szyperski in Toledo, Ohio. He attended Central Catholic High school and the University of Toledo before graduating from the University of Toledo Law School.Tom's law career was focused on criminal defense and he served as a public defender as well as having a private practice. As someone who always rooted for the underdog and a firm believer in second chances, Tom excelled in his field. Never one to turn a blind eye to the inequities in our society, Tom spent his career applying his sharp mind towards leveling the playing field. Tom was an Atticus Finch to his children and a respected member of the Toledo Bar Association, who retired to care for his wife and spend as much time with her as possible.Tom and his wife, Yvonne, met on a blind date and built a beautiful life together supporting their children, travelling and working in their yard. As a father, Tom took enormous pride in his children and always celebrated their individuality. While he was always an influence, he staunchly supported differing views. One example was the Sunday morning family tradition of listening to Jesus Christ Superstar rather than going to church. He didn't believe in coddling his children or hiding his flaws, but he also never judged them for their flaws and they forever knew that he was in their corner. In a world where people like to advance their agendas, Tom was a rare person who truly wanted his children to believe what they believed and love who they loved.Affectionately known as Papa Tom to his 10 grandchildren, Tom took great pleasure in afternoons around the pool, yearly family trips to Saugatuck and attending their numerous games, plays, recitals and extracurricular pursuits. They will cherish the memory of his pep talks, tough love, authenticity and questionable culinary choices.Tom was uncompromising in his principles and stubborn until the bitter end. No level of success overshadowed his core identity as a Polish kid from Burton Ave. and his lifelong friendships are a testament to that fact. He was brilliant, funny, and effortlessly cool.He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Hattie Szyperski and his wife of 53 years, Yvonne. He is survived by his children Paul (Andrea), Katherine, Elizabeth (Richard), and Joseph. Grandchildren Isabel, Thomas, Samuel, Victor, Emma, Eleanor, Isaac, Taft, Theodore and Roman. His devoted sister Mary Francis Baumker, cherished friend and colleague George Gusses and countless friends and extended family members.Per Tom's request there will be no service, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Heartland Hospice, who provided his family exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.