Thomas Giffels

Thomas Edward Giffels, 85, of Bath, died peacefully Friday, Jan. 5 after a brief illness. He was born in Akron on Easter Sunday, March 27, 1932, the son of William C. and Caroline E. Giffels. After serving in the Army Corps of Engineers, he graduated from the University of Detroit, then began his career as a civil engineer, eventually becoming a partner in the firm now known as GBC Design, Inc. He married Donna Mae (nee) Auseon in 1962, and they enjoyed 50 years of marriage together. Thomas was a longtime member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish. He was also a devoted member of Akron Serra Club, which promotes the vocations to the priesthood and religious life. He was a member of the Bath Township Water and Sewer Board. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brothers James, William, and Richard. He is survived by his children Ralph (Natalie), David (Gina), Eve (Douglas) Brunot, Louis (Dana); grandchildren Evan, Lia, Gwendolyn, Edward, Ryan, Daniel, Trent, and Jeffrey; siblings Robert and Mary Louise; and many relatives and friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, Jan. 12, 2018 at 10 a.m. at St. Vincent Catholic Church, 164 West Market St. The family will receive visitors from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Hummel Funeral Home, COPLEY, 3475 Copley Road. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Akron Serra Club, 533 East Wilbeth Road, Akron 44301.