Thomas M. Atwell

Thomas M. “Tom” Atwell, 77, of Olean, formerly of Bolivar, passed away in his home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, after a lengthy illness.

Born on Wednesday, November 17, 1948 in North Hornell, NY, he was a son of Robert Prouty and Lucymae Truman Prouty Atwell.

Tom was a graduate of Wellsville High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy where he served on the USS Constellation during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, Tom made California his home, a place he truly loved. While living there, he was employed in the medical field. After returning home to Bolivar, Tom was employed in various jobs, mostly in customer service. Some of these jobs included KFC in Olean, Walmart in Olean, and lastly at St. Bonaventure University.

He loved his many cats over the years. He had a beautiful singing voice. Tom loved to read and watch old movies. He was a wonderful cook. He enjoyed exercising at the YMCA. He loved going to the Cattaraugus County Fair despite his health issues. Tom was of the Jewish faith, worshiping at the former B’Nai Israel Temple in Olean.

Left to cherish his memory are two sisters, Cathy E. Atwell and Carol L. Atwell, both of Bolivar; a brother, Kevin C. (Brenda) Atwell of Taylorville, PA; three nephews, Jeremy W. Atwell, Burton M (Christie) Little and Kevin C. Atwell, Jr.; two nieces, Lisa M. Atwell and Kelly L. Atwell; two grandnephews; three grandnieces; a brother-in-law, Tommy Johnson; and his special friends who made it possible for Tom to live alone, including Linda, Chuck, Dawn, and Shirley.

In addition to his parents and stepfather, Tom was predeceased by a sister, Karen L. Atwell; and a nephew, Christopher Atwell.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services. He will be laid to rest with his mother in the Alfred Rural Cemetery, Alfred.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Tom’s name may be made to a SPCA of the donor’s choice.

Tom’s family entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Tom, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.