Thomas Lee Gimben, age 67, of Vermilion, OH, went to meet his Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 1st, 2026. Tom was born on August 22nd, 1959, in Elyria, OH. He grew up in Lorain and later moved to Elyria. He graduated from Lorain High School in 1977.

Tom attended Church of the Open Door and met his wife, Colleen, there in 1984. They got married at the Elyria campus in 1987. During the 1980’s Tom drove for the bus ministry at Open Door, and he also went to the Ivory Coast to assist with mission projects.

Tom was a dedicated employee, working at Moen for about 10 years and then at Parker Hannifin for more than 30 years, serving in a variety of roles. In 1990, he and his wife moved to Vermilion, where they started their family, raising four beautiful children.

He enjoyed spending time at Cedar Point with his family and having movie nights with them. Tom also enjoyed cars, riding motorcycles, and collecting Harley-Davidson T-shirts. Those who knew Tom would agree that he had a great laugh and many “Tom”-isms, or sayings, that he would use in conversation. His family is thankful that he made it to his 67th birthday, which was also Tom and Colleen’s 39th wedding anniversary.

Even though he struggled with ALS, he still wanted and appreciated visits from others. His family extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who visited Tom, provided meals, offered prayers, or provided practical help. They could not have done it without their dear family, friends, and community.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen (nee Schmidkons) Gimben; their four children Victoria (Cody) Rose, Joshua (MacKenzie) Gimben, Tia Gimben, and Noah Gimben; his granddaughter, Annie; and his brothers Neal (Sallie) Gimben, Dale (Kathy) Gimben, and Nick Gimben.

Tom was preceded in death by his father and mother, Nicholas and Irma Gimben, and his twin brother Timothy Gimben. His mother and twin brother also battled ALS.

The service will be held at the Church of the Open Door Vermilion campus (1230 Beechview Dr, Vermilion, OH 44089) on Tuesday, September 15th, with visitation from 4-6, light refreshments provided, and a service to honor and celebrate Tom from 6-7.

Instead of sending flowers, please consider donating to Second Harvest Food Bank or the ALS Association. 

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Andras Crematory & Funeral Home, Lorain.