Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Pflasterer, Thomas W., age 68, of Claysville, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Husband of 36 years to Robin (Mager) Pflasterer; father of Conrad (Rachel); grandfather of Eliza Jo and Lucas Thomas; son of Dorothy Reiber and the late James L. Pflasterer; brother of Linda Sue Boehmer (William), James A. "Jay" (Nancy) and Nancy K. Haughton (James). Also survived by nieces and nephews Jennifer, Kathryn, Andrew, Kathleen, Daniel, James F. "Rick", Christina and Julia as well as great-nieces and nephews.

Tom lived an active and busy life devoted to his home, his family and friends, and his passion for aviation.

Born in Pittsburgh and residing in Washington County, Tom was a licensed Professional Engineer specializing in bridge and highway design and construction. He was an avid aviation enthusiast as well.

He spoke with pride at having been on the design and development team for the Lake Pontchartrain Bridge in New Orleans.

Tom built and flew several ultralight aircraft and was an ultralight instructor. He held a private pilot license for fixed wing aircraft and license as a commercial hot air balloon pilot and instructor. He was hired by Pittsburgh Brewing Company to operate their hot air balloon advertising program, first with the conventional IC Golden Lager balloon, and later with the IC Light balloon. As pilot and program manager, Tom flew the can-shaped balloon at local festivals, community events and rallies in the tri-state region.

A man with remarkable imagination and energy, Tom's life-long efforts to design and build practical airship prototypes took physical shape at his home and in facilities in the community. He was a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the Experimental Aircraft Association where he participated their local chapter events.

His verve, intellect and generous heart will be greatly missed by family and friends. A private ceremony for the family will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026 at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227. A larger celebration of his life will be planned for a spring date. Please send condolences to www.johnfslater.com