Thomas W. Schlachter

Thomas W. Schlachter, 73, of Defiance, passed away on  Monday, September 17, 2018 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.   
 
He was born on April 10, 1945 to Cleo and Ellen (Barnett) Schlachter in Defiance. On March 13, 1965 he married Gerry (Applegate) Schlachter, who resides in Defiance. He worked at General Motors as an oiler from 1965-2004 and experienced fond memories working with his coworkers. In 1975, Tom and Gerry built a successful farming operation. Even though Tom retired from farming in 2013, it is still functional today. Tom was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Defiance. He was known for his hard work ethic, helping others, and quick wit.

Tom is survived by his loving spouse of 53 years, Gerry Schlachter of Defiance, daughters, Jody Schlachter of Bryan, and Sandra (David) Kessler of Defiance, grandson Jonah D. Kessler, step granddaughter Ashley (Wesley) Perry of Defiance, step grandson  Andrew (Rebecca) Kessler of Grover Hill, step great-granddaughter Sophie Kessler, step great-grandson Hunter Kessler, brother Michael "Mick" (Evelyn) Schlachter, and sister-in-law Wanda Schlachter, all of Defiance, Aunt Frances Schlachter of Bryan, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents Floyd and Nellie Barnett, Jack Lang, Albert and Annabelle Schlachter, and his brother Terry Schlachter.
 
Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm on Thursday, September 20, 2018 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 21, 2018 at 10:30 am at Schaffer Funeral Home, with Pastor Judy Williams officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverview Memory Gardens.
 
Memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center, or Good Samaritan School.

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