Thomas W. Stillman

COLONIE – Thomas W. Stillman, 89, passed away peace fully on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at the Daughters of Sarah Nursing Center. He was born in Colonie on May 27, 1931 and was the son of late Arthur and Margaret (Fleig) Stillman Sr.

Tom graduated from Schenectady Vocational High School 1949. He served in the US Air Force from 1949 through 1956. Tom was an Aircraft Engine and Mechanical Drafting specialist stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. He joined the GE Flight Test Operation, Aero Space & Defense Services at Schenectady Co. Airport from 1951-1964. Tom traveled the world with the C-121 Super Constellation and the C131-B Convair under the Atlas Missile Guidance System Development Program.  He was stationed at Ascension Island with the DC-6 Nike Zeus Re-Entry program and participated in multiple Gas Turbine Jet Test Programs. Tom earned his pilots’ license from Embry Riddle School of Aviation in 1957 and owned his own plane.

When the Flight Test Center closed, Tom went into business for himself in 1965 opening Tom and Jerry’s Car Wash in Watervliet NY. Tom was the owner/operator of the car wash for almost 55 years.

Tom always had a smile on his face. He was a friend to many always willing to lend a helping hand.  His easy going manner was only exceeded by his generosity.

Tom was a car enthusiast and according to his grandsons could fix anything.  He restored many 1950’s era Oldsmobile’s, winning numerous national best-in-show titles. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing but most importantly spending time with his family.  Living next door to his grandsons, Tom took great joy being able to participate in their daily lives.

Tom was married for 31 years to the love of his life Jerry (Cichon) who predeceased him in 1983.

Tom is survived by his daughter Debbie Chrisikos and son-in-law Tony of Colonie;    his cherished grandsons Devan of Troy, Taylor (Nicole) of Houston, Drue of Colonie and many in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Daughters of Sarah Nursing Center for the kind and compassionate care Tom received during his year there.

Funeral services were held privately. Interment was in Memory Gardens.

Donations can be made to Susan G. Komen Foundation, PO Box 650020, Dallas, TX 75265or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Thomas W. Stillman. To leave a message of condolence for the family or to view Tom’s custom video tribute, visit www.CannonFuneral.com