Thomas Christian Elsass

Tom attended Bexley schools, graduating from Bexley High School in 1961. He then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Miami University (Ohio), where he studied business, majoring in accounting and finance. At Miami, he was an active member of Sigma Chi fraternity and the Miami baseball team. Following his graduation from Miami in 1965, Tom began his career in accounting with Ernst & Ernst in Columbus.

Tom married Barbara Volosin on July 30,1965 at Annuciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Columbus. Their union was one of enduring love and friendship and was blessed with two children. They welcomed son, Stephen, in 1968, while Tom served as an accountant in the Ohio Air National Guard, stationed in Japan. Upon their return to Ohio, daughter, Elizabeth, was born in 1970. Their fifty-nine years of marriage was a testament to their love and eternal partnership.

Tom quickly developed a passion for self-employment and business development and embarked on a successful career in the franchise world. Starting in real estate development as a Vice President of Finance, Tom soon led a controlling interest as President and Director of Indian Hills Realty Company. From there, he transitioned to the role as President and CEO of Century 21 for Southern Ohio, Inc. Under his leadership, the company grew to 175 franchised real estate offices. Tom was instrumental in the sale of the company to Century 21 International, Inc. From 1981-1987, Tom served as Chairman of Uniglobe Travel of Ohio, a franchise which expanded to several states under his leadership. His business expertise continued to grow in purchase and development of franchise rights. He was a franchising and marketing consultant throughout his professional life and implemented his skills in multiple companies. In early 1994, Tom became Vice President and Managing Partner for East Coast Golf Centers, Inc. This venture led to the purchase and franchise rights of Golden Bear Golf Centers, a role that took him to over thirty centers worldwide. He later co-owned and served as Chairman for the prosperous TDS Document Management, LTD., DBA Shred-It franchise in Ohio, building that industry and territory during a period of tremendous growth. Tom’s final venture found him implementing this same business plan with his son, with the greater Columbus area franchise purchase and operation of Smash My Trash.

Tom also served on the Bexley City Council for several years, a role he relished, as service and the preservation and betterment of the Bexley community were important to him. In 1975, he became a proud member of The Golf Club in New Albany, where he played many memorable rounds with family and friends. Tom was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt, and ski. He cherished time at their farm at Rock Mill in Lancaster, where they lived for many years before settling in German Village. Tom and Barbara retained a part of the farm property and developed “The Hollow”, their much-enjoyed retreat by Hooker Falls.

Above all, Tom dearly loved his family, and in his later years found great joy in spending time with his three grandchildren. He loved the Buckeyes, his cars, golfing, and traveling. He and Barbara saw much of the world together and built enduring memories from their many travel destinations. Tom had a competitive spirit and greatly enjoyed participating in member/guest golf tournaments. He loved flying, his motorcycle, and riding horses at the farm. He will be remembered as a man who lived his life with appreciation, adventure, and zeal. Tom’s sense of humor was one of his greatest attributes. His quick, witty, and hilarious sense of humor, along with his special gift of delivering a joke, was unmatched. Tom always brought laughter to a room. His jokes were told and re-told over the years, and we all laughed every single time. Tom had a special way of bringing warmth, humor, and love to a conversation.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by daughter, Elizabeth. He is survived and will be greatly missed by his beloved wife Barbara, devoted son Stephen of New Albany, and grandchildren Ryanne Elsass of Columbus, Mackena Elsass of Gahanna, and Cole Elsass of New Albany. Additional survivors include brother Don (Diana) Elsass of Davidson NC, and sister Lynn (Rick) Otty of Ayer, MA. Sister-in-law, Michelle Kendall, of Eastmoor, and Brother-in-law, Charles (Helen) Volosin of Florida.

Tom embraced his journey to the afterlife in full faith, knowing that he would see his beloved family and friends again. In the end, Tom was at peace.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 PM on Friday, June 28, 2024, at Schoedinger Northeast, 1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230. The Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Christ Lutheran Church, 2314 E Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43209. Interment at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Lutheran Church or charity of your choice.