Merwyn Thomas “Tom” Poole

MERWYN THOMAS “TOM” POOLE, 85, of Weirton, WV passed away on January 7, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh due to complications from a long hard fought battle stemming from a motor vehicle accident this past May. Born on February 7, 1938, in Follansbee, West Virginia, he was one of two sons born to Ferris and Helen Richter Poole, Sr. Tom graduated from Follansbee High School in 1956 and went on to make a significant impact in various aspects of his life. On February 8, 1964, he married the love of his life, Mary Ann Debnar, with whom he would have celebrated their 60th anniversary the next month. Tom dedicated 41 years of his professional life to Koppers Chemical Plant, where he worked primarily in the lab. Many in the community may remember Tom from his musical endeavors. Alongside his brother Ferris, he co-founded the Weirton Band Variations Unlimited, a favorite in the Ohio Valley during the late sixties and early seventies. Tom played a pivotal role as the lead singer, bass player, and rhythm guitarist, leaving an indelible mark on the local music scene. In his leisure time, Tom pursued his passion for building and flying model airplanes, becoming an award-winning pilot. A proud member of the Greater Pittsburgh A.R.C.S., he demonstrated his skill and enthusiasm for aviation. Additionally, Tom was a skilled chef and winemaker, participating actively in the Tri-State Winemakers Club. Camping and fishing trips to Canada were a source of joy for Tom, and he cherished these moments with friends and family. Card games, especially euchre, and artistic pursuits provided him with relaxation. Tom’s talents extended to the home front, where he could build, remodel, or fix anything with ease. He was a member of Saint Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, Holy Name, Knights of Columbus 3734, Wellsburg Moose, and the former BPOE 1801. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Debnar Poole, his son, Mark, and daughter-in-law Debra Poole, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Abbey (Corey) Lim and Audrey Poole; his brother Ferris and Jane Poole, Jr. Visitation was held at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Saint Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, Weirton, with Fr. Larry Dorsch presiding. Interment followed at Saint Paul’s Cemetery. Share tributes at www.grecohertnick.com.