In Memoriam: Tom Markworth

Special Tribute and Memoriam: Tom Markworth

We were very sorry to hear that Tom Markworth passed away Saturday February, 27.  His obituary was in the Columbus Dispatch on March 20.  A memorial service will be held at 6 P.M. Thursday, March 31, 2016 at Schoedinger Northwest Chapel, 1740 Zollinger Rd., where family will receive friends from 4 P.M. until time of service.

Remembering Tom, Nikki Spretnak shared that she called Tom out of the blue one day asking for his help.   She used to work with him but she had not been in contact with him for over 20 years. This was the beginning of a wonderful relationship to Camp Wyandot. He willingly helped the board with the sales agreement and lease for the caretaker’s house in 2010.  Later that year, he advised on how to get out of our office lease and move to a small space saving us thousands of dollars at a time when we needed it the most.  There is no way we would have negotiated so successfully without Tom.

Most important of all, with Marty Sweterlitsch, another volunteer attorney, Tom helped us through the disaffiliation with Camp Fire.  Tom and Marty formed a great team and worked with the board diligently, joining us in our conference calls with national and advising the board on the proper legal steps to disaffiliate.  Thanks to them and the board we become our own independent non-profit organization and kept control of our camp.

There are many other ways Tom has helped us.  He generously answered all of our legal questions during the past five years providing sound advice and saving us thousands of dollars.

Tom’s wife Renee is also a supporter of Camp Wyandot. They have both attended the Annual Luncheon for many years. This year Tom was not able to come but we were pleased Renee came and once again contributed to silent auction.  She is already planning on what she wants to do for next year.

Nikki remembers when Tom first came to camp, he got out of his car and said, “You couldn’t have picked a more beautiful spot in all of Ohio.”  We agree.  And we thank Tom for helping us keep it.  He was a good friend to Camp Wyandot and will be deeply missed.