Thomas V. Zwierzelewski, Jr.

Thomas “Tom” Vincent Zwierzelewski, Jr., 71, of Scottdale, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 4, 2026, in UPMC Shadyside. Tom was born on July 23, 1955, a son of the late Alice Jane (McBeth) Zwierzelewski.

Known for his dry sense of humor, Tom kept everyone on their toes with a collection of classic ‘isms’ that family and friends could quote. Anyone gullible enough to fall for his jokes got what he called a “bag of dirt.”

Tom spent more than four decades with Levin Furniture and Mattress, starting as a sales associate at the Mt. Pleasant store—when Levin’s had just two storefronts—and working up to senior leadership positions, where he helped to open over 30 locations and create innovative store designs that showcased the Levin brand. More than the job, it was the people who mattered to him. Tom was deeply grateful for his close friendship with Robert and the members of the Levin family. He embraced his colleagues as his own (and some truly were!), with far too many dear friends to name.

A creative problem-solver who loved bringing beautiful spaces to life, Tom channeled that passion into the Scottdale Historical Society alongside a wonderful group of fellow volunteers. He was a hands-on leader, rolling up his sleeves to restore the Loucks Homestead, helping to organize Christmas House Tours, teas and auctions, and was a co-author of Around Scottdale and Everson.

Tom’s favorite piece of Scottdale history was the family he built. In his own ornery way, everything he did was to make them happy. He poured his heart into creating wonderful memories, like going on family trips and making Christmas magical alongside his wife of fifty years.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth (Gildroy) Zwierzelewski; his children, Laurel (Alberto, his daughter Danajah) Rivera, Brock (Ashley) Zwierzelewski, and Brittany (Michael) Mardis; his cherished grandchildren, Lilliana, Gage, Kolton, and Lucy; his brother-in-law, Richard Yuhouse; his nephew, Ian Yuhouse; an extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins; and lifelong friends. He was also preceded in death by his best friend and sister, Jane Yuhouse.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, interment will be private. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Open House on Sunday, August 23, 2026, between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Loucks House in Scottdale.

Tom’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Scottdale Historical Society for hosting his Celebration of Life, as well as to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Independence Westmoreland Hospital and UPMC Shadyside for their compassionate care.

For those wishing to honor Tom, memorial donations can be made to the Scottdale Historical Society at PO Box 400, 527 North Chestnut Street, Scottdale, PA 15683.

Though Tom will be deeply missed, true to form, he has simply stepped out to “go see a man about a dog.”

Arrangements are in the care of GRAFT-JACQUILLARD FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, INC 303 Pittsburgh St., Scottdale.  For online condolences, please visit www.gjfuneral.com