Thomas A. Giacose Jr. entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2021, at Garnet Medical Center in the Town of Wallkill, surrounded by his loving family. He was 71 years old.
He was predeceased by his father, Thomas Giacose, and his mother, Sophie Giacose (nee Silvestro).
He is survived by his daughters: Vanessa Bower and her husband, Benjamin Bower of Chester and Alison Giacose of Middletown; and his grandchildren: Blake Bower and Aubrey Bower. He also leaves behind his siblings: Steven Giacose and his husband Scott Neff, Leonard Giacose and his wife Carol and Francine Block and her husband Steven: and his six nieces and two nephews.
Tom was born in Newark, New Jersey, on June 19, 1950, and grew up in Clifton.
He graduated from Seton Hall Prep in 1968. He attended Fordham University, where he studied biology and engineering.
He worked for Keyence Corporation and Clarostat Systems and Controls as an electrical engineer.
In May 1999, he was given a second lease on life as the recipient of a liver transplant. This life-saving operation granted him an additional 22 years.
Tom was eternally grateful to be afforded the opportunity to see both of his daughters graduate from high school and college.
His transplant also allowed him to spend precious years with his two grandchildren and build an unbreakable bond with them.
His grandchildren inherited his thirst for knowledge and aptitude for engineering. Tom treasured the opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and teach them about science, geography, space and aided in their eclectic palates, as they enjoyed cuisine from many different cultures together.
Blake and Aubrey were among his greatest joys and best friends.
In addition, Tom enjoyed fishing, going to the beach, traveling, playing his guitar, riding his motorcycles, rebuilding car engines and computers, and checking out local restaurants. He stayed in contact with the same group of friends, most of which he had known since grade school. The Jersey Boys were always held close to his heart, even those who migrated and remained on the west coast.
The family is planning a celebration of Tom’s life with family and friends in the spring of 2022.
In lieu of flowers, Tom would encourage everyone to become an organ donor.