Thomas R. Ries, 80 of Canal Fulton, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Thursday, October 9, 2014. Tom was born December 17, 1933, to Harry and Leolla (Hess) Ries in Massillon, Ohio. He graduated from Canal Fulton High School, Class of 1951, and was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a life-long farmer who also worked and retired from Dominion East Ohio Gas in 1989 after 25 years of service.

He loved his family; his farm, especially raising pumpkins and sweet corn; his John Deere tractors; the Cleveland Indians; Ohio State football; and was a member of the Stark County Farm Bureau.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie (Ruegg); sons Steve (Christine) and Mark; and grandchildren Haley and Matthew Ries; brother Robert (Naomi) of Jeromesville, OH, Richard of Massillon; and sister Betty (Tom) McFarlane of Wooster.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by granddaughter Amber Marie Ries.

Funeral Services will be held SATURDAY, October 11, 2014, 11AM at the Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home, 624 E. Cherry St . (Rt. 93), Canal Fulton, Fr. Kevin McCaffrey officiating. Burial at Canal Fulton Cemetery. Calling Hours FRIDAY 2pm to 4pm and 6pm-8pm and one hour prior to service time on Saturday. In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to Aultman Hospice, 2821 Woodlawn Ave. N.W., Canton, Ohio 44708.

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