Thomas Walter “Tom” Mandarino
June 12th, 1959 - March 20th, 2025
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Tom's Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas Walter Mandarino, who was taken away from us by liver cancer on March19th, 2025 at the age of 65. Thomas was born on June 12th, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois, to Walter and Ronna Lee Mandarino. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Tom was raised in south suburban Dolton, graduating from Thornwood High School in 1977. Tom participated in wrestling, swimming, and cross country while in school. After graduation he enjoyed a career as a machinist at Verson Allsteel Press alongside his father Walter. He spent many years living with his family on Paw Paw Lake in Coloma, Michigan.
Thomas was known for his kind heart and infectious laughter. He was a troublemaker of the worst and best kind. He had a love for everything science fiction; Star Trek being a favorite. He was very talented at fixing cars and other things, most of which he had previously broken.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, his aunts and uncles, Constance and Kenneth Caplinger, and Georgina and Donald Hakes, and his cousin Michael Hakes, who was more like a brother. He is survived by his three sisters, Susan Bennett, Lynne Mandarino, and Deanna Mulherin; his nephew Joshua Mulherin; his nieces Fiona and Delaney Mulherin; along with countless beloved cousins, who will carry his memory with love and pride. A special note of love and affection for the people he helped raise years ago; Elise, Ashanti, Tom and Mike.
In honor of Thomas, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, MI for the outstanding care and support they provided.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to your local Salvation Army in Thomas’s memory. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com
Thomas will forever be remembered for the love he gave and the warmth he shared. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Tom was raised in south suburban Dolton, graduating from Thornwood High School in 1977. Tom participated in wrestling, swimming, and cross country while in school. After graduation he enjoyed a career as a machinist at Verson Allsteel Press alongside his father Walter. He spent many years living with his family on Paw Paw Lake in Coloma, Michigan.
Thomas was known for his kind heart and infectious laughter. He was a troublemaker of the worst and best kind. He had a love for everything science fiction; Star Trek being a favorite. He was very talented at fixing cars and other things, most of which he had previously broken.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, his aunts and uncles, Constance and Kenneth Caplinger, and Georgina and Donald Hakes, and his cousin Michael Hakes, who was more like a brother. He is survived by his three sisters, Susan Bennett, Lynne Mandarino, and Deanna Mulherin; his nephew Joshua Mulherin; his nieces Fiona and Delaney Mulherin; along with countless beloved cousins, who will carry his memory with love and pride. A special note of love and affection for the people he helped raise years ago; Elise, Ashanti, Tom and Mike.
In honor of Thomas, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, MI for the outstanding care and support they provided.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to your local Salvation Army in Thomas’s memory. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com
Thomas will forever be remembered for the love he gave and the warmth he shared. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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