Thomas D. Sturgis

Thomas (Tom) D. Sturgis, 92, of Shillington, passed away March 9, 2026, at Reading Hospital and Medical Center under the care of in-patient hospice. Prior to his hospitalization, the compassionate and competent staff of Comfort Keepers provided professional care in the comfort of his home.

Born in Reading, he was the only child of the late Marriott (Tom) D. and Lottie B. (Bilski) Sturgis. Tom met Barbara Snyder, the love of his life in 7th grade while lining up in alphabetical order. They were smitten with each other from that moment on. Tom was a graduate of Wilson High School and went on to attend Albright College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Physics.

He later became CEO of Tom Sturgis Pretzels, the family business. Under his leadership, the company continued a proud local tradition of pretzel making while remaining a cherished part of the community.

Despite his role as CEO, Tom was happiest outdoors. He found joy in gardening and was often seen in front of the offices tending to the plants and flowers, taking pride in the beauty of the grounds. Tom planted trees, shrubs and flowers in numerous areas of Pennsylvania to provide food and habitat for wildlife.

In 1955, he married Barbara. Tom and Barbara were deeply devoted to one another and to their family. They shared 67 plus years of marriage until her passing in 2024. Together they built a loving family and shared a passion for travel, enjoying group tours and river cruises throughout the United States and abroad.

Tom is survived by his sons, Bruce T. Sturgis, husband of Erin Sturgis, of Wernersville, Chris A. Sturgis, of Downingtown and son-in-law Robert Thomas; six grandchildren: Rachel Gordner (Eric), Lindsay Addams (Todd), Sarah Mekeel (Lance), Caleb Thomas (Kerri), Zachary Sturgis, and Luke Sturgis; and seven great-grandchildren: Tori Gordner, Brianna Gordner, Jarrod Addams, Ellie Addams, Gabriel Mekeel, Claire Mekeel, and Wells Thomas.

He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Tim Snyder; nieces, Kirsten Snyder and Brita Jenquin (Jerry); great-niece, Beatrix; and great-nephew, Konrad.

In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara; his daughter, Jill Marie Thomas; his daughter-in- law, Sherri Sturgis; and his sister-in-law, Stephanie Snyder.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. 739 Penn Ave, West Reading, PA, 19611. Words of remembrance will be shared starting at 7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741 US, donations@michaeljfox.org .

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home is honored to serve the Sturgis family. Condolences may be recorded at kuhnfuneralhomes.com