Thomas Robert Croak

Thomas Robert Croak, 86, of Lake Suzy, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025. He was born on September 24, 1938, in Woodstock, Illinois, to Robert and Darlene Croak.

Tom attended St. Mary's Catholic School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1960, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. After his service, he continued his education at Saint Joseph's College. In 1972, Tom moved to Naples, Florida, where he started and operated his own irrigation business on Marco Island, Collier Genie, for thirty years.

A devoted Catholic and member of the Catholic Church in Port Charlotte, Faith played an important role throughout his life. Tom found great joy in playing golf and planting and caring for his rose bushes. Known for his unwavering loyalty to family and close friends. He was most proud of his family and grandchildren, who were the center of his world.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Sara, whom he married in 1969 and would have celebrated 56 years of marriage this October, with his brother Richard (Kay) Croak, daughters Michele Croak Hickle (Randy) and Casey Croak Pratt, son Scott McEwen (Beverly), nine grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and nine nieces and nephews.

He was a proud member of the Elks Club and Kingsway Country Club, where he cherished his time spent golfing with his many friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held in his honor on Friday, September 19, at 1:00 p.m. at Saint Charles Catholic Church in Port Charlotte, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or to hospice care in Tom's memory.

A celebration of life will be held on November 29, 2025, from 3:00-5:00pm at Hodges Life Celebration Center, Bonita Springs.

Tom will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to his country, his strong Catholic faith, and the joy he found in friendship, golf, and tending to his beautiful red roses in the Florida sunshine.