Thomas Edward Grasso

Born in Superior, CO, he joined the Army Air Corps in 1947 at the age of 17 and went on to serve 25 years attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. He served in Guam, Japan, Korea,

Vietnam and two tours of duty in Germany. After retiring from the military in 1971 he proceeded to his second career and opened Little Brass Shack Imports using his knowledge of

Asia to make frequent buying trips for merchandise. Over the next 40 years the business expanded and he went on to become the owner of Tide Mill Shopping Center. His business

evolved to include brass refinishing and lamp repair. This was his passion, taking broken tarnished items and returning them to their sparkling, new condition. Even during his

illness he managed to continue working following his hard work ethic. He will be missed terribly by his family, friends, tenants and customers.

He was preceded in death by his son Michael Bruce Grasso and his brother John Grasso Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Susan Mae Grasso, daughters Debra Susan Parker (Tom) and Sharon Elaine Gresham (David), both of Richmond; son Kendal Edward Grasso (fiancé Jean Marie Card) of Fountain Valley, CA; brothers Victor Grasso (Anni) of Missoula, MT and Richard Anthony Grasso (Betty) of Dothan, AL; grandchildren April Michelle Feniello (John); Jessica Louise Parker; Graham Thomas Gresham and Gabrielle Laniere Gresham; along with many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday May 17, 2012 at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23666. Interment will follow at Parklawn Memorial Park.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23666.