Thomas "Shany" Shanaberger

Thomas "Shany" Shanaberger, 71, of Bolivar passed away on Wednesday, March 12,2014. He was born April 22, 1942 in Akron, a son of George Kendall and Lillian (Horvath) Shanaberger. Tom grew up in Kent and graduated in 1960 from Kent Roosevelt High School.

Tom's career started as a salesman and promoter for Capital Records for 13 years. During this time he was a business manager to two recording groups, traveling the United States, Japan, Mexico and Canada.

In 1975, he changed careers to attend The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. He graduated with honors and worked at various fine restaurants in New York. His love of cooking moved him back to Kent where he bought his uncle's business known as Walter's Cafe. The cafe served as a base for his catering business called Chateau Tomach Caters.

Tom later moved to Bolivar as chef for Atwood Lodge.

Tom enjoyed bowling as well as his love for the outdoors including fishing in Canada.

Tom is survived by his sons, Mark Shanaberger and Chris (Joi) Shanaberger of Brimfield; granddaughter, Heather; brother, Jan Shanaberger of New Orleans; sisters, Carol Smith of St. Cloud, Florida and Jane Bowden of Massachusetts; many cousins, nieces and nephews; his long time friend and companion, Linda Zirhut; and his many friends in Bolivar.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Hospice staff for their care given to Tom.

Tom was a friend and mentor to all he came in contact with. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Calling hours will be held 6-8 PM Monday, March 17th at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home in Kent with funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 18th Kevin O'Brien officiating. Burial will be held at Restland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Community Hospice, Tuscawarus County, Stark County & Carroll County, 716 Commercial Ave. S.W., New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.