Thomas W. Platz, Sr.

Thomas W. Platz Sr., 74, of Girard, PA, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023, at Erie VA Medical Center.

He was born on July 28, 1949, a son to Catherine (Jones) Platz and the late Earl "Bud" Platz.

Tom graduated from Rice Avenue Union High School. Following high school, he was inducted into the United States Army. He served with the 1st Cavalry Division in the infantry. He attained the rank of Specialist and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Air Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, Army Commendation Medal Valorous Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Marksmanship Badge with grenade bar, Sharp Shooter marksmanship badge with rifle bar; Auto Rifle bar; Machine Gun bar; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with palm device, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal Unit Citation, First Cross and the Purple Heart. 

Upon his Honorable Discharge, he returned to his home in Girard and helped his mother run Platz’s Tavern for ten years. He also worked at a manufacturing company prior to starting his own successful tool and shear sharpening business, where he was well-known and respected in the community. After running his business for 36 years, he retired and enjoyed hunting and fishing locally. 

He spent much time out on the greens golfing with friends. Tom was a member of the Gem City and Albion Sportsman’s Clubs. He was a skilled trap shooter and lifelong member of the Edinboro VFW Post #740 and the Fairview American Legion Post #742. He was a very proud father and grandfather and loved sharing his stories with his grandchildren.

He will be greatly missed by his family which includes his mother, Catherine (Jones) Platz; beloved son, Thomas Platz II (Sara); adoring grandchildren, Bryson, Callen and Avery; and many cousins and friends, including his dear friend, Bev Bible.

Friends may call on Wednesday, 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at the Edder Funeral Home, Inc., 309 Main Street East, Girard and are invited to attend a Prayer Service there on Thursday at 9:30 am followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 7100 W. Ridge Road, Fairview, PA.  Burial with full military honors will take place at St. Johns Catholic Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Tom to the Erie VA Medical Center, 135 East 38th Street, Erie, PA 16504 or online at  
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Edder Funeral Home, Inc.
To send condolences visit edderfuneralhome.com

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