Thomas Paul Vaiana

Thomas Paul Vaiana, 60, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 8th, 2024, after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will live on.

Born in Moline, Illinois on April 12, 1964 to Sally Elaine (Ronk) and Paul Franklin Vaiana, Thomas was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he served his country with honor. He received an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Sergeant. Following his time in the military, Thomas enjoyed a successful career as a financial fund manager, where his expertise and acumen earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues. His dedication to his work was matched only by his passion for being a volunteer youth football coach. He poured his heart into coaching, not just teaching the fundamentals of the game but also imparting valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

A man of many interests, Thomas enjoyed snow skiing, a hobby that allowed him to embrace the thrill of the slopes and the beauty of nature. He and his family made many memories on the slopes while living in California. Thomas was a dedicated father to his two sons, Zachary and Austin Vaiana. He loved them deeply and cherished all the memories they made together.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Sally, and he is survived by his sons: Zach (Alexandra) and Austin Vaiana; his dedicated and true love, Gina Whitsitt; siblings Lisa Vaiana Wright (John); Shawn Vaiana (Deanna); John (JC) Vaiana; Jennifer Vaiana White (Jeff), as well as nieces and nephews Marcus, Marcel, Jessica, Jordin, Tysen, Kolten, Jaelyn and Mackenzie.

The family wishes to thank Griswold Home Care, especially Jennifer Galvan, for her thoughtful service and tender friendship.

A memorial service to honor Thomas’ life and legacy will be held on Wednesday, October 16th, at 10 AM at St. Joseph Honey Creek Catholic Church in the chapel. His burial with military honors will be on Thursday, October 17th, at 10 AM at Fort Sam National Cemetery Shelter #1.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the ALS Association or the PreBorn! Pregnancy Clinic in Thomas’ memory.