Thomas Michael Hill Jr.
Thomas Michael Hill Jr., 47, passed away on July 14, 2024, unexpectedly at his home.
Born on Jan. 25, 1977, to Thomas Michael Hill Sr. and Sandra (nee Shaner) Hill Smith, Thom was raised in Burton and attended Berkshire High School and Auburn Career Center, where he graduated in 1994.
During high school, he was active in football and wrestling. He went on to attend Johnson & Wales University, where he graduated with an associate’s degree.
After college, his love for adventure and the water took over and he moved to the Caribbean, where he worked as an excursion coordinator for several years. During this time, he became a certified scuba diver.
At the end of his time in the Caribbean, he moved to Indiana, where he managed a Hunt Club. Later, he moved back to Ohio, working as a sous chef for the former Bass Lake Tavern in Chardon, where he met Kelsey Hobbes, whom he married in 2011. For the past eight years he worked at Superior Beverage.
Thom was known for his infectious laughter as well as being a caring, patient and loyal person, especially to his close friends and family, but who could also make a friend in a minute. He was never afraid of trying new things.
Among his hobbies were cooking, especially barbecuing, which inspired him to make his own smoker. He also dabbled in painting and enjoyed customizing motorcycles.
Thom was an avid fan of tattoos.
He is survived by his wife, Kelsey (nee Hobbes) Hill; stepfather, Bruce Smith; as well as uncles and several cousins.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra Smith; and father, Thomas Hill Sr.
A celebration of Thom’s life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home in Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
