Thomas Edward Wargin

Thomas “Tom E.” Edward Wargin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in Silver Spring, Maryland on March 1, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on October 31, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, Tom lived a life marked by dedication, quiet strength, and a deep love for his family and the pursuits that brought him joy.

For more than four decades, Tom devoted himself to the railroad, first as a towerman and later as a programmer. He retired in 1999 after over forty years of service, having found in that work not only a career but a true calling. Even in retirement, his fascination with trains remained a constant source of wonder.

At home, Tom was known for his voracious reading, meticulous note-taking, and love of classical music. He enjoyed eating peanut butter by the jar, dousing his breakfast eggs in hot sauce—earning him a “Texas Pete” cap—and adding vanilla to his coffee. Born to Olive and Francis “Little Vic” Wargin, he was the second of five children. He shared a close bond with his siblings, the late Doris Borgias, Joe Wargin, the late Bill Wargin, Michael Wargin, and Fran Lee. In 1974, he undertook a 100-mile hike with his nephew Darren Borgias, documenting the journey with detailed notes and photographs that remain treasured family keepsakes. He played a vital role in helping the Borgias family relocate from Illinois to Washington state and patiently tutored several relatives through challenging math courses. Tom had a distinctive way of answering questions; as his wife often remarked, if you asked him what time it was, he would teach you how to build a watch. Though his thorough explanations sometimes delayed quick answers, they created lasting memories and imparted knowledge that proved valuable in unexpected ways.

Tom is survived by his cherished wife, Tami “Tia” Wargin, his four adult children—Janet Crenshaw, Theresa Janisse, Andrew Carraro, and Katrina Reiher—seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and countless nieces and nephews. He held a special fondness for irises and cacti. In his memory, his family encourages others to engage in long conversations with a father or a curious child, carrying forward Tom’s lifelong curiosity and love of learning.