Thomas Jay Lasher, 76, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Fontana, PA.
He was born on Oct. 21, 1949, in Altoona, PA. He was the son of the late James P. Lasher Sr. and Anna M. Rabold Lasher Brandt. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna M. Lasher, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage, married on March 4, 1967.
Tom attended the Annville School District through the eighth grade and went on to become a dedicated entrepreneur, founding Lasher’s Garage on Route 322. He owned Lasher’s Garage for 39 years, founded on July 1, 1986. He was deeply committed to his work, and one could almost always find him in the mechanic shop alongside friends and loyal customers. His garage was more than a business; it was a place of community, friendship, and family. Before starting his own business, Tom worked for John H. Boger & Son for many years, where he received his Burner Service Technician degree.
Tom enjoyed stopping by the Quentin House to grab a bite to eat and socialize, but above all, his greatest love was his family. He cherished hosting family and friends at his home for pool parties and gatherings filled with laughter. He also had a big heart for animals, especially the neighborhood cats, whom he happily took in as his own. He was known for his wonderful sense of humor and warm smile. Tom had a way of lighting up any room he entered. Tom had a way of allowing those to enter not only his home, but also his heart, and make you feel like part of the family.
He was also a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. In addition to his wife, he will be dearly missed by his brother, Richard Lasher, and wife, Sue; children, Tammy Smith, and husband, Franklin, and Terry Lasher, and wife, Brenda; grandchildren, David Blauch, Samantha Boyer (husband, Calvin), Brandon Blauch, Keanna Lasher, and Makaylynn Carroll (husband, Adam); and nine great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his brothers, E. David Lasher, James Lasher Jr., and Raymond (“Pete”) Lasher.
A private service will be held for close family and friends.
