Thomas Wells Jr.

 Thomas M. Wells Jr., of Vero Beach Fla. and Erie Pa. passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2018, peacefully, at his home in Erie with his wife at his side.  He was born May 2, 1927 in Erie, Pa., the son of the late Thomas M. and Virginia L. McCall Wells Sr.

 He grew up in Belle Valley.  He graduated from Millcreek Highschool (now McDowell) where he was an exceptional varsity football player.  He played in the 1944 Lions Club Save an Eye All Star Game.

 After graduating from highschool in 1945, he served his country in the US Navy and was stationed in Manila Bay in the Philippines during World War II. After his return, he graduated from college in Cleveland.

 Mr. Wells founded Erie Acoustical Corporation which grew to become a major commercial construction company serving northwest Pa., western New York and northeast Ohio for over 40 years.  He was involved in the construction of many major buildings including the Millcreek Mall, the Erie Insurance home offices, Hamot Hospital, St. Vincent Hospital and the 100 State Street office building.  An innovator and early adopter of new technology, he was one of the first contractors in the region to adopt light-gauge steel framing and drywall for commercial construction. He designed and used a unique scaffolding system and an energy efficient lighting system for which he received US Patents.  

 Education was a very important cause for him. He served on the Millcreek Township School Board for many years, becoming its president in 1965.  He also quietly helped to fund the college educations of several deserving individuals.

Mr. Wells’ entrepreneurial talents engaged him in various business enterprises.  He was a founder of Spectrum Control, the owner of Thomas M. Wells funeral home until it was sold to David Burton in 1961.  He was an investor in several startup companies including Automated Industrial Systems and others. 

 Mr. Wells also had an avid interest in real estate development and built or redeveloped many buildings and homes in Erie and Florida including 1600 Peninsula Drive, an office plaza he designed.  In 1977 he purchased a vacant Kresge store at the corner of 9^th and State Streets and redeveloped it into the 900 State Street office building, now part of Gannon University.

 Mr. Wells had a passion for automobiles, and collected and restored several classic Mercedes Benz sports cars. Following his love for the sea and southern climates, he enjoyed many family gatherings in Florida and the Caribbean Islands.  He was a certified scuba diver and with his children explored coral reefs and shipwrecks throughout the Caribbean. He was happiest when on the water.  He and his wife, Deborah were able to spend extensive time in their Vero Beach home. 

 He was a member of the John’s Island Club (Vero Beach, Fla.) Erie Club, Aviation Club, Erie Yacht Club, and Kahkwa Club, where he once made a hole-in-one.

Mr. Wells was known for his quick wit, love of people and new adventures.  He always found the positive in people.  He found common ground with others from all walks of life during his travels.  He was a kind, friendly and generous man who took care of his family, fostered lasting friendships with many people, served his country, helped his community and in doing so, affected the lives of so many around him.

 He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosemary Venable Wells, his parents Virginia McCall Wells, Thomas M Wells Sr. Sisters Clara Anne Hanchin and Margaret Johns. 

 He is survived by his wife of 37 years Deborah Yaple Wells, sons Thomas M. Wells III (Louise) Atlanta Ga., Mark Wells (Beverly) of Fairview, Craig Wells (Susan) of Millcreek, daughter Jane Kleeger (Lorin) of St. Croix, USVI, a brother, James R. Wells (Maria), seven grandchildren (Thomas M.Wells IV, James Henry Wells, Katharine Murphy, Eleanor Wells, Geoffrey Wells, David Kleeger, Rose Kleeger) and two great-grandchildren. (Thomas M.Wells V and Grace Wells), and many nieces and nephews. 

 Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 West 26^th Street (at Powell Ave) on Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m, until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.. with the Rev. Chris Weichman officiating.  Burial to follow in Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery.

 Memorials may be to Great Lakes Hospice 1700 Peach Street, #244, Erie, PA 16501, the Erie Community Foundation, 127 West 6^th Street, Erie, PA  16501 or the charity of one’s choice.