Thomas Zolezzi

Tom Zolezzi was a native of San Diego and grew up in what is now known as Little Italy. He graduated from San Diego High School in 1951, and worked in his father's grocery store until it closed. He later worked as Sales Manager for Cabrillo TV and Appliance Store, and then Sales Associate at Burnett Furniture followed by La Mesa Furniture until he retired in 1994.

He enjoyed donating his time to church and community events. He was an active member of the San Diego High School Alumni Association, the Italian Catholic Federation #230 and Our Lady of the Rosary choir; he also played the organ for church services. In addition, Tom was the "unofficial historian" of Little Italy contributing to numerous print articles and TV news features regarding the community.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Katherine (Busalacchi), sister-in-law Rosalie Ingrande, brother-in-law Vito Busalacchi (Dona) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Italo and Augusta Zolezzi, sisters Rose Tait and Louise Dentone.

Viewing will be held at Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary, 3655 5th Ave., Monday February 27 form 5-8pm. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, February 28th at 9am, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church on State and Date Streets, followed by entombment at Holy Cross Mausoleum on Hilltop Drive.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carmelite Monastery, 5158 Hawley Blvd, San Diego 92116 or Our Lady of the Rosary Church.