Tina Lynn Szmania-Defluiter

Tina Lynn Szmania-DeFluiter, 64, of Dublin, passed away December 29, 2023 in Columbus. She was born on September 9, 1959 in Toledo, Ohio to the late Edward and Irene (Przybylski) Szmania. She's survived by her husband John DeFluiter as well as her son, Dale (Chelsie) DeFluiter II; grandchildren, Oakley and Nash; brother, Terry (Pamela) Szmania; and many other family members and friends.

Tina obtained her Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University. In the more than four decades that Tina has worked for the City of Columbus, the majority of that time has been spent as the Employee Programs Coordinator. In this role, she championed many causes to raise funds, coordinate volunteerism and support initiatives on behalf of the City of Columbus and its employees. Causes that she routinely was able to support at the City of Columbus included the United Way of Central Ohio's combined charitable campaign, Mid Ohio Food Collective food drive and volunteer opportunities, Veteran's Day Celebration and luncheon, 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, Employee Recognition Ceremonies and the American Red Cross Blood Drives. She was recognized in October by Columbus City Council for her work with the Blood Drives during Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Whatever the special cause throughout the years – collecting canned food, coats, blankets, diapers, instruments – Tina rose to the occasion for the sake of others in need. Tina went above and beyond her role for the City of Columbus for the cause she was asked to support. She wanted to make sure every employee felt valued during their experiences. She often made cookies, always had candy jars and added balloons and decorations to make each event special.
Other Roles and Initiatives:
Employee Orientation – welcoming new employees
City Hall Visitor Tours
City employee discounts
Democracy in Government - Poll Booth Workers Program
Big Brother, Big Sister
Employee Benefits and Wellness Fair
National Take your Daughters & Sons to work day

When she wasn't working, Tina (TT) loved to spend time with her family attending her grandchildren's soccer and baseball games, gymnastics practices, taekwondo competitions, Cub Scout events, making endless goodie bags for every event, camping, going on a cruise, endless shopping and much much more. Her grandchildren brought her SO much joy! She loved them more than words can describe! Tina was extremely generous, faithful, giving, caring, loving, supportive and would do anything for anybody. Tina was an unbelievably strong woman as she fought for her life after a major car accident nearly 7 years ago and battled ovarian cancer for nearly 2 years prior to passing. She ALWAYS put others first no matter what. She was a true image of who God wants us to be.

A service to honor her life will be held at 1pm on January 8, 2024 at Newcomer Funeral, Northeast Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, 43231. Visitation will be held from 11am to 1pm prior to service. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. To leave a condolence, or to share a memory, please visit the tribute section of the obituary.