Thomas Andrew McClimans

Thomas Andrew McClimans, 78, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, at Ashtabula Regional Medical Center.

Born July 9, 1947, in Ashtabula, Ohio, he was the son of Harry and Louise (Durkin) McClimans. A proud graduate of St. John High School’s Class of 1965, Tom went on to pursue higher education at Lehigh University and Ohio University, earning degrees in both electrical engineering and computer engineering—disciplines he would seamlessly merge throughout a remarkable and influential career.

On June 14, 1969, Tom married his one true love, Judith Gentile. Together, they built a life grounded in enduring love, shared purpose, and a deep devotion to family. They celebrated their 50th aniversary together before she passe in 2020.

Tom’s professional legacy in the electrical power industry spanned nearly six decades and left a lasting mark on the field. He began his career with American Electric Power, where his talent and leadership quickly distinguished him, earning him recognition as one of the youngest plant managers in the company’s history. His expertise later led him to Black & Veatch Engineering, a globally respected engineering firm, where his work took him across the country and around the world.

A true pioneer in his field, Tom was instrumental in designing the nation’s first computer-operated power plant (Conesville), an achievement that reflected both his technical brilliance and forward-thinking vision. His global contributions to power generation established him as a respected leader and innovator in the industry. He achieved Life Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and maintained a deep interest in advancing technologies throughout his life.

Yet, for all his professional accomplishments, nothing brought Tom greater pride than his family, especially his daughters. Melinda and Margo were the center of his world, and he had such immense joy and happiness in the women they became. He spoke of them often and with unmistakable pride, seeing in them his greatest success. Alongside Judi, he considered himself profoundly blessed by the family they built together.

Tom also found enjoyment in writing, reading, particularly Tom Clancy novels, and following Ohio State Buckeyes football. Though his career took him far from home, his love for Ashtabula, along with his family and friends, never wavered. He chose to live out his final years here, after Judi’s passing.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Melinda (Chip Carter) McClimans and Margo (Lukas Eppler) McClimans; his cherished grandson, Leonardo Eppler, and step-grandchildren Louis Eppler, Leela Eppler, and Matilda Eppler; his siblings, Bruce (Patricia) McClimans and Marilou McClimans; and his nephew, Patrick McClimans.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Judi, on February 26, 2020.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace Parish, 1200 E. 21st Street, Ashtabula. Burial will follow at Saint Joseph Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s name to St. John School, envelopes will be available at the church or can be sent directly to the school (St. John School, 7911 Depot Road, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004)

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Andrew McClimans, please visit our floral store.