Thomas J. Gerstner

Thomas J. “Tom” Gerstner, age 66, of Findlay Township, Imperial, PA, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.  Tom was born in Sewickley, PA, on September 23, 1959, one of five sons to the late Gladys R. (Kennedy) and Leon P. Gerstner.  Tom is survived by his four brothers: Pat Gerstner and his wife, Sandy, of Fuquay-Varina, NC, Mike Gerstner of Angier, NC, Tim Gerstner and his girlfriend, Pam McClurg, of Imperial, and Chris Gerstner and his wife, Cindy, of Lexington, SC.  He is also survived by seven nephews, Joshua Gerstner, Jared Gerstner, Andrew Gerstner, Greg Gerstner, Gary Gerstner, Grant Gerstner, and Jason Gerstner; two nieces, Danielle Gerstner and Hannah Gerstner; cousins, Jay Snincak, Susan DeLuca, Louis Argenta, June Walker, Ted Snatchko, Rick Pichi, and John Pichi; and, his only surviving aunt, Doris Pichi of Oakdale, PA.  In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Bernice Kennedy and Patrick and Margaret Gerstner.

Tom attended West Allegheny School District and, following graduation, began his career with Liberty Mutual Insurance.  Later, he became part of the original startup crew when Giant Eagle opened its Market District complex in Robinson Township where he worked for nearly two decades.  Of all the positions he held throughout his career, Tom often said his most rewarding role was supervising and working alongside a team of special needs individuals while performing various workplace tasks.

Although Tom spent a brief time living in South Carolina, Pennsylvania was always home to him.  He was a devoted caregiver to his mother during her later years and remained by her side until she went to her heavenly home.  Tom was deeply devoted to the people he loved and always placed family first.

Tom had a warm, outgoing personality and a smile that could light up any room.  He could strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere, and many would say that Giant Eagle became his own version of social networking.  He had a special gift for making people feel valued and welcomed, and his hugs were unforgettable.

Growing up in a household full of boys meant there was never a shortage of laughter, stories, or memories.  Tom especially enjoyed decorating for the seasons and keeping his home perfectly organized.  As brothers often do, his siblings would occasionally move items ever so slightly just to see if he would notice.  It rarely took Tom more than a few minutes to quietly walk over and place everything back exactly where it belonged, without saying a word.

Tom loved family vacations to the beach and the mountains, along with the cherished moments spent together with family and friends whenever schedules allowed everyone to reunite in Pennsylvania.  He was also well known for his lifelong affection for roosters.  Visitors to his home were always greeted by an impressive collection of rooster pictures, figurines, and decorations that reflected his unique personality and sense of humor.  He also enjoyed gardening and playing miniature golf.

Tom’s warm smile, kind spirit, and genuine love for others will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Tom was cremated, and a Committal Service will take place at Resurrection Cemetery on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Arrangements by HERRICK COMPASSIONATE FUNERAL SERVICE, PC, Edward M. Herrick, Supervisor/Owner, 951 Cliff Mine Road, North Fayette Township, Imperial, PA, (724) 695-7332.

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