Tom Cerra

Residents throughout the Ohio Valley might not have known Tom Cerra personally, but they most likely have benefited from his long career in the construction industry.

Cerra, who served for 50 years as executive director of the Ohio Valley Construction Employers Council and was one of the founding members and chairman of Project BEST, died Saturday. He was 81.

From development authorities to labor unions, pension boards to colleges, Cerra had a role in so many areas of Wheeling and beyond. Those who knew him or worked with him said he immersed himself in his work and the communities he loved. Former state representative, county commissioner and union representative Orphy Klempa said Cerra was more than a business associate. He was a best friend.

“I’ve worked with Tom since the 1970s as rep to the carpenters and building trades. He was a giant in the construction industry in the Northern Panhandle and upper Ohio Valley. He was not afraid to pick up the phone and call the governor, people like that. He had that kind of relationship with people,” Klempa said.

“A person only has a handful of best friends and I counted Tom among them. He always had time to listen. We would go out to dinner. We had some great times together and we are going to miss his friendship.”

Klempa said Cerra worked to make sure the local trade unions got their fair share of work. He also was always willing to listen, Klempa offered.

“He gave me the most important advice I used in my careers. He told me to never say no, always compromise and negotiate so that you could say yes. He had great people skills and knowledge of the industry.”

Mary Jo Klempa, Orphy’s wife, worked for Cerra for 45 years. Her longevity in his office spoke to the type of boss he was, she said.

“It was the kind of job that I wanted to go to work every day. I never dreaded going to work,” she said. “Tom was such a good listener and then he would offer advice. People were always coming to his office for advice for all kinds of things. He was so respected.”

Mary Jo Klempa also pointed out that he was very proud of his family although he was a private person about that part of his life.

“He loved to ride his horse and would make some funny videos that he would show at the Project Best breakfasts,” she said. “He will be missed.”

Cerra was responsible for naming The Highlands after he visited the hilltop property and suggested the name to county officials. Mary Jo Klempa added that his work was his life and people appreciated what he did for the communities up and down the valley.

Friends will be received from noon-3 and 5-8 p.m. Friday at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger St., Wheeling. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Michael Church, with the Rev. Martin Smay as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling.