WIRT, N.Y. – Thomas R. “Tom” Spees, 77, passed away on Monday (Aug. 7, 2023) at home.

Mr. Spees was born on Nov. 19, 1945 in Wellsville to Kenneth R. and Lena A. (Turner) Spees. He was a 1963 graduate of Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse, Pa. Soon after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served from 1963 to 1966, spending much of his time in the Vietnam War.

Tom owned and operated the Spees Dairy Farm in Shinglehouse, Pa. for over 30 years, retiring in 2013. In his retirement years he moved to a quiet homestead in Wirt where he enjoyed the solitude of the country and the beauty of the local wildlife.

Tom enjoyed hunting. He was an avid New York Yankees fan and enjoyed watching NASCAR races and attending the local dirt tracks of Bradford Speedway and McKean County Raceway in Smethport, Pa. He also enjoyed the quiet of his front porch.

Tom loved spending time with his children. His daughter’s favorite memories were as her dad’s sidekick; hanging out in the barn, helping milk the cows, fishing, attending farm shows, auctions and 4-H. His son’s favorite memories with his dad were going hunting and building stock cars together.
Tom was a long-time member of the Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530.

Tom is survived by a son, Jody Spees and a daughter, Gina Mosko, both of Kannapolis, N.C.; two grandchildren, Steven Spees of Bradford, Pa. and Guy Spees of Port Allegany, Pa.; one sister, Margaret “Peggy” Campbell of Olean and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by two sisters, Genette Spees and Letha (Bob) Moyer and a brother-in-law, Jim Campbell.
Per Tom’s wishes, there will be no prior visitation. A private ceremony will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio.

Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.