07/15/2026
With hope in the Risen Christ and yet with sadness, we inform you of the passing of Thomas C. VanDusen. Our sympathy to his family. May his memory be eternal. ✝️
Thomas C. Van Dusen, 72, of Canton, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on July 7, 2026.
He was truly one of one. A colorful character with perpetual curiosity and a love of learning: ski patrolman, boat builder, sailor, carpenter, cook, musician, engineer, and philosopher...his pursuits were endless, as are the adjectives that describe him. He was wild, passionate, and sharp-witted, with an immutable zest for life. Well read and self-taught, he possessed intellect beyond pedigree.
Thom was generous, kind, and genuine with everyone he met—a stranger to no one. He was a self-ascribed “seeker of truth,” who immersed himself in every interest, with no sense of limitation and every expectation of hope. His life reflected the human condition in its truest form.
Though he began his journey as an orphan, he ultimately found the acceptance, love, and fulfillment his heart had always sought, through his unwavering belief in God. Blessed by the encouragement and support of the exceptional community at St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, the Lord became both his Father and his home. Thom converted and devoted himself fully in faith over several years.
He routinely attended services, assisted with making prosphora for communion, and even helped found the church book club—regularly raising eyebrows with his frequent digressions. We are praying for all those in heaven who will soon lay witness to Thom explaining the origin of the pearly gates to St. Peter, and why such heavenly materials were required for their thermodynamic properties.
Thom was raised by his adoptive parents, Clifton and Ruth Van Dusen. He is survived by his wife, Larysa Avyerina; his son, Graham Van Dusen; daughter, Caitlin (Chris) Murphy; and grandchildren, Cal and Cash Murphy.
Thom was an example of reconciliation for all. He passed gracefully and confidently, full of spirit, with his wife, son, and daughter by his side.
Visitation will begin at 10:00am, followed by services at 11:00am on Wednesday, July 15 at St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 251 25th St. NW, Canton, Ohio. Services will be officiated by Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas. Interment will be at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens.
