Arizona Community Devastated by Sudden Loss of Beloved Father, Coach, and Football Enthusiast Thomas Savovich, 42, Killed in Tragic Car Accident Leaving Behind Wife and Three Young Children

SURPRISE, ARIZONA – April 2025 — The city of Surprise, Arizona is reeling after the tragic and untimely passing of Thomas “Tom” Savovich, a beloved husband, father of three, and respected youth football coach, who lost his life in a devastating car accident on April 7th, 2025. He was just 42 years old.

The accident, which occurred on a quiet stretch of road in Maricopa County, has left a family shattered and a community mourning the loss of a man described by everyone who knew him as kind, loyal, and utterly irreplaceable. According to officials, the crash is still under investigation, but authorities have confirmed that Tom died at the scene. No foul play is suspected at this time.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Nikki Savovich, and their three young children—Ayla, 14; Jakub, 10; and Kimber, 6—each of whom adored their father beyond measure. To them, Tom wasn’t just a dad; he was their rock, their coach in sports and in life, their bedtime storyteller, and the man who never missed a dance recital, soccer match, or parent-teacher meeting. To Nikki, he was her partner, her best friend, and the man she envisioned growing old with.

“This is a nightmare we can’t wake up from,” Nikki said in a statement shared by the family. “Tom was our world. He made every moment better, brighter, and full of love. I don’t know how we move forward, but I know he would want us to carry his strength with us.”

Tom was well known in the Surprise community for his work as a youth football coach, where he mentored dozens of kids over the years—not just teaching them about the game, but about life, character, and hard work. His passion for the sport was rivaled only by his love for his family. Parents of the young athletes he coached often praised his patience, energy, and unwavering encouragement. “Coach Tom,” as he was affectionately known, had a unique ability to connect with kids and bring out their confidence both on and off the field.

“He believed in every kid he coached,” said fellow coach Marcus Hill. “He never yelled, never gave up on anyone. He taught those boys and girls to believe in themselves—and he led by example. We lost one of the good ones. One of the best.”

Friends and loved ones recall Tom’s booming laugh, his passion for Sunday football games, and his ability to light up any room he entered. He was known for hosting backyard barbecues, cracking dad jokes that made everyone groan and smile, and always stepping in to help whenever someone needed a hand. Whether it was assisting a neighbor with a flat tire or cheering the loudest at his daughter’s school play, Tom was there—present, involved, and full of heart.

The impact of his loss has been immediate and far-reaching. A growing memorial now stands at the local football field where he spent countless hours coaching. Flowers, team jerseys, handwritten notes, and photos now adorn the chain-link fence—tributes from teammates, parents, fellow coaches, and friends who say Tom’s absence will be deeply felt for years to come.

In addition, an online fundraiser has been established to support Nikki and the children as they face unimaginable grief and transition into life without the man who was the center of their universe. The fund will help cover funeral expenses and ensure the children continue to have access to the activities and education Tom held dear.

A public memorial service will be held next week at the Surprise Community Church, where loved ones will gather to share stories, celebrate Tom’s life, and say goodbye to a man whose legacy is defined by love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family.

Thomas Savovich leaves behind more than memories—he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, commitment, and compassion that will live on in his children, his players, and the many lives he touched.

Rest in peace, Coach Tom. You were everything to your family, and now, you’ll always be their guardian on the sidelines.