Thomas Richard Schwanbeck

Thomas Richard Schwanbeck, 69, formerly of Williamsport, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025 in Rockville, MD, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and a large family who cherished him deeply. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Sullivan Schwanbeck, and was preceded in death by his amazing first wife of 31 years, Debra Ann (Salvatori) Schwanbeck. Thomas was a devoted father to his three children, Keirsten (Bruce) Schwanbeck, Graham (Ashley) Schwanbeck, and Katarina Schwanbeck; a proud stepfather to Katrina (Seongju) Sten, T. Eric Sten, Jr., Elena (Brian) Russ, and Tessa Sten, and treasured Poppy to Aviana, Dorothy, Patrick, Luke, Amelia, Charlie, Michael, Henry, and Calvin.

Thomas was born on June 3, 1955, in Williamsport, PA and was a son of the late Eva L. (Royer) Schwanbeck and Thomas H. Schwanbeck. Tom is survived by his brothers Paul and Terry (Brenda) Schwanbeck.

Thomas was a passionate woodworker, carving custom pieces of artful furniture for customers throughout the Northeast, from cabinets to armoires, custom knives to full replications of the Last Supper. Thomas was the President of Timeless Interiors, Inc., the former Meelan’s of which his father was a partner, until his retirement in 2020. Thomas also founded Schwanbeck & Son with his son, Graham, sharing in his profound joy for woodworking and creating pieces together. Thomas was known as the family handyman, and there was seemingly nothing he couldn’t make or fix.

As an avid global traveler, Thomas explored over 25 countries throughout his life, with his favorite destination being the island of Saint Martin, which he visited more than ten times. He embraced the excitement of discovering new places and cultures, with a particular enthusiasm for trying local cuisine. Although he was willing to try nearly anything, mayonnaise maintained a spot on his most-hated list throughout his life. Thomas loved the water, enthusiastically embarking on cruises with family and friends, and it was on one such cruise that he met his beloved wife, Pattie.

Thomas was a wonderful cook and an exceptional baker, and he shared his culinary talents and love for creating delicious treats with his family. This love for cooking was passed to his children, who often came up with baking challenges of increasing difficulty. From a young age, Tom held a special fondness for trains, a passion sparked by his father and culminating in a robust Lionel collection. He delighted in spending time with his trains, especially sharing his joy with his children and grandchildren.

Thomas was a true survivor and was deeply cherished by his family. Despite the many obstacles he faced over the years, Tom maintained a forward-looking perspective on life. Loved by many, his absence is profoundly felt, yet his family takes comfort knowing he is resting at peace.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond St., Williamsport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 15 St. Joseph the Worker, 702 West Fourth St., Williamsport, PA 17701. Internment at Wildwood Cemetery will follow. A Memorial Mass will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, 917 Montrose Rd, Rockville, MD 20852. All who knew and loved Tom are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Reading Railroad Heritage Museum, 500 S 3rd St., Hamburg, PA 19526, to help ensure that future generations can experience the wonder and joy of trains as Thomas did.

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