Thomas S. Lapikas

Thomas S. Lapikas, 85, of Hermitage, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Mr. Lapikas was born on September 14, 1940, in Sharon, a son of the late Stephen and Antoinette (Ferrara) Lapikas. A lifelong area resident, he was a 1958 graduate of Sharpsville High School.

He married his wife of 60 years, the former Victoria Drapp, on July 17, 1965. She survives at home.

Tom began working at General American Transportation Corp (GATX). While working and raising his family, over a 12-year period, he took night classes at Youngstown State University, where he earned his degree in engineering. During his 47-year career with GATX, Tom was eventually promoted to manager of maintenance engineering, working out of the Masury, OH location, and commuted for 10 years to the company’s Chicago plant.

Tom was a member of St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, Sharpsville.

He was also a member of the American Legion, Post 299, Sharon, where he looked forward to gathering with his friends.

An avid fisherman, he organized a fishing trip, which his family continues 30 years later. He also had a passion for golf, and throughout his lifetime, he got four holes-in-one. He and his wife also liked traveling to different courses throughout the country, following professional golfers. Additionally, he loved maintaining his yard and going to Ocean City, NJ, where he and his wife have visited for the last 43 years.

He is survived by his wife and their four children, Thomas S. Lapikas, Jr. (Lisa), of Sharpsville, Lauri Bruno (Tony), of Cranberry Twp., PA, Jonathan Lapikas (Sonya), of Sharon, and Aaron Lapikas, of Pittsburgh; five grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as “Top Dog,” Olivia, Jacob, Will, Katie, and Nolan; and his beloved dog, Jenny.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Lynn Cole; and a brother, Daniel Lapikas.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Buhl Park Golf Course, “Dum Dum” 1290 Forker Blvd, Sharon, PA 16146.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday (03/12/2026) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday (03/13/2026) in St. Bartholomew Church, 311 West Ridge Ave., Sharpsville, with Rev. John Miller, pastor as celebrant.

Interment: St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hermitage.