Thomas John Spittler (Tom), 77, of Holland, Michigan, passed away on January 2, 2022.

Tom was born in Gowanda, New York, to Stuart and Helen (Syron) Spittler. He met his future wife, Sonya (Massar), when they attended grade school there together. After graduating from Syracuse University, Tom began a 20-year career in the Air Force. He received his Master's Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and put his electrical engineering skills to work at radar stations around the country. He was stationed in England twice and it was there that Tom discovered a love of antiques, and, specifically, antique grandfather clocks.

After retiring from the Air Force as a Lt. Colonel, Tom began his second career collecting and selling these clocks, travelling the country with Sonya to many National Association of Watch and Clock Collector (NAWCC) conventions and making life-long friends along the way. Tom was honored with a Fellowship Award and a Silver Star Award from the NAWCC for his contributions to the field of horology and the Association. He even co-authored several books on the topic of clocks and watches.

Tom knew a little something about everything and always had a ready smile and upbeat attitude with everyone he met.

Tom is preceded in death by his wife, parents and brother-in-law Bob Sweitzer. He is survived by his daughter Shannon Yanek (Mark Pottorf), grandsons Stephen and Ben, sister Bobby Sweitzer (nieces Nancy and Julie) and brother- and sister-in-law Dan and Joy Egan (nephew David).

Burial will take place at a future date in Gowanda, New York.

Memorial contributions can be payable to The Day Center of Evergreen, 480 State Street, Holland, MI 49423. Service Details. Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event Ongoing Online Event About this event In Loving Memory Of Thomas Spittler May 16, 1944 - January 2, 2022 Look inside to read what others have shared Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book. View Tribute Book