John Thomas "Tom" Adzima

Feb 4, 1942 -

Apr 1, 2025

Tom Adzima, master of dad jokes and witty comebacks, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 1, 2025—fitting, really—after a long battle with Parkinson's.

Born in Hadley, Pa., to John and Dorothy Adzima, Tom and his brother Bruce spent their childhood stirring up farm mischief. He chose chemical engineering, graduating from Grove City College, and later earned a master's from Case Western while raising sons Jay and Jeff with his beloved wife, Jean (Patterson) Adzima. The two met in school, married in 1963, and built a life rooted in love, faith and adventure. Shortly after the arrival of their daughter, Jennifer, the family moved to Alaska in 1974.

Tom played a key role in building the trans-Alaska pipeline and worked with SOHIO/BP for 50 years. Even in retirement, he stayed busy traveling the world with Jean, exploring his faith and indulging his love for photography, whether chasing northern lights or capturing church portraits.

A devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, Tom was a faithful servant, sharp humorist and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

He is survived by his children, Jeff (Bobbi) and Jennifer (Ira); grandchildren, Brad, Ben, Blake, Christian and Joe; brother, Bruce (Linda); sisters-in-law, Carol Adzima and Karen Patterson; and many nieces and nephews. He is reunited in heaven with his beloved Jean; son, Jay; his parents; brother, Gene; and many dear friends.

A graveside service will be held in June at Hadley Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held June 13, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Anchorage.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in Tom's name.