Thomas Theodore Catanese

Thomas Theodore Catanese, age 91 of Warren, died Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born September 3, 1928 in Detroit, son of the late Bert and the late Angeline (nee: Piazza) Catanese.

At 23 years of age, Thomas answered the call of our country to join with his fellow brothers-in-arms in the Korean War effort. Serving from February 16, 1951 thru February 3, 1953 as a soldier in the U.S. Army, the lion’s share of Tom’s military obligation was spent in assignments overseas as part of the 5th Army’s, Battery C, the 229th Field Artillery Battalion. While proudly serving his country, Tom managed to eke out some special memories,…like the day he got to meet the Pope. For this patriot who sacrificed much to step up for America, we extend our posthumous gratitude for his honorable service and his willingness to stand in harm’s way for the sake of freedom. So it is, with thanks and praise from a grateful nation, that we honor PFC Thomas Catanese for a job well done.

For his career path, Tom decided to join the throngs of those seeking positions within the automotive industry, and ultimately accepted an assignment with General Motors to work at their Cadillac plant in the Security Department. Tom enjoyed a long and productive 35 years with the automotive giant before finally accepting his well-deserved retirement.

Like many men back in his day, Tom was known for being quite the ballroom dancer and loved swaying to the music,…especially when he was in the arms of his beloved Patricia. A display of love is never more heartfelt and reflective than watching a familiar couple move around the floor in sync and with effortless beauty,…just like Thomas & Patricia.

Sports  was also something that provided Tom with countless hours of pleasure. In his younger and more agile years, the venues of baseball, football, golf and bowling each caught his attention and afforded him the opportunity of both participating and competing with his peers. As adulthood ensued and age began to play more a part in his ability to participate, bowling still remained to be his go-to sport for a little exercise. Bowling in leagues for over 17 years, Tom felt great honor in being elected the team’s treasurer.

Known by all as a kind and gentle soul who loved life and was immersed with a great sense of humor,…to know him was to love him, and he never met a stranger. He lived a life of serving others and was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back. Tom was raised and imbued with those “old world principles” as handed down from his Italian heritage. He was immensely proud of that heritage,…which also gave him the license to joke around with references from the “Godfather.”

Yet of all the beautiful traits he possessed, perhaps the most pronounced was his immense faith in God. His beliefs were strong and his devotion ran deep. Along with the principles of the Golden Rule, Tom was also guided by the assurance that His God was truly in control. And it was his deep and abiding faith that also made him the devoted husband he was to Patricia and his loving family.

He is now at peace after fighting his battle with dementia, resting happily in his true home in Heaven. His family will be enjoying a cannoli in his honor and memory.  

Tom was the beloved husband of Patricia. Dearest father of Angela (Tom) Bommarito, Teresa (Michael) Greening, Tommy (the late Dawn) Catanese, Laura Elle, Kathy (Randy) Donagan, Sue (Kevin) Just, Jim (Terri) Grosch, the late Jerry Grosch, and the late Shelly Cingel. Loving grandfather of 27 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

A private family burial will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Tom at his guest book below.