Thomas R. LaRose

Thomas Robert LaRose of Philadelphia passed away peacefully at home on December 11th, 2021 surrounded by family and his faithful canine companion Rudy. He was 87 and a half years old. A long time resident and avid Philly sport fan Tom had made Northeast Philadelphia his home for the past 6 decades.

Born on April 10th, 1934 in Weissport, PA, the son of Clarence and Mary LaRose, the proprietors of the local Fairview House tavern. Tommy grew up in the Lehigh Valley, graduated from High School and enlisted in the Navy. His adventures took him from the Caribbean Sea through the Arctic Circle and back. His rating as a Boiler Technician was hot dirty work and after his initial 4-year sea tour, he transferred to a more family friendly opportunity and served 4 more years in the Air Force.

Tom was always an excellent athlete and he played on his Air Force Command Softball team and continued to play softball well into his 40's. His competitive nature and ability also served him well as a member of several local dart teams. After leaving the service, Tom worked at Janney Cylinder and later at Thalheimer Brothers, creating specialized alloys and metals used military and commercial applications, until his retirement.

Tom met the love of his life in Philadelphia, when he first became friends with the lovely Betty (nee Martin-Manosis). They lived, laughed, loved, worked and raised a family. Tom and Betty were always together, supporting and caring for each other over the decades.

Tom was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty, son Thomas George, and grandsons Christopher and Georgie. A great family man, Tom was regularly surrounded by his many children and their families. He leaves behind a strong legacy and is survived by his other 5 Children, 15 Grandchildren and 20 Great-grandchildren; Bob (Beth) 4 children, 8 grandchildren; (Nancy) 3 children, 3 grandchildren, Lori Ann (Doug) 2 children, 1 grandchild, Debbie 2 children, 2 grandchildren, George (Flavia) 3 children, 2 grandchildren, Eva (Alan) 3 children, 4 grandchildren.

A toothpick in his mouth and a joking remark on his smiling lips...Tom LaRose was always well liked and will always be well loved and remembered fondly.

Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, December 17, 2021 from 10:30 until 11:30 am at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, where his funeral service will be held at 11:30 am. Interment will follow in Rosedale Memorial Park, Bensalem.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to The American Red Cross or your local Humane society