Peter Tomalo

Peter Paul Tomalo passed away on Monday, September 13, 2010. He was born June 28, 1919, in Thomasville, Pennsylvania, a small coal mining town. He was one of three children born to Lewis and Teresia Tomalo.

At an early age Pete attended a one room schoolhouse with about 20 other children. The only heat the school had in the cold of winter was a coal burning stove. The older kids had to see to and take care of the stove. The school had no plumbing or electricity, with two out houses out back; not many hands were raised saying teacher may I use the restroom. He remembered the Great Depression of the 30's. People had long faces and a sad look. Food and clothing were almost a no-no; people struggled around looking for work. He worked odd jobs and three years in the coal mines before entering the Army Air Force in 1942. He served in World War II in Europe, and he was a member of the 27th Fighter Escort Wing in the Korean War. In 1950, Pete married Lola Christina Thompson Vines. They lived in England for three years, toured Europe, and later travelled all over the U.S. After his retirement from the military in 1962, Pete worked for the Austin State Hospital in Supply for 15 years. He and Lola enjoyed 52 years of marriage.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lola; step-mother; infant brother; sisters, Marian Piptick and Leonora Magulick; and a brother, Richard Tomalo.

He is survived by a sister, Carmella Blumenthal; brother, Charles Tomalo; niece, Elaine Patrick; daughters-in-law, Rosemary Russell Vines and Alisin Genfan; and grandson, Kelly Vines. He loved his dog Peggy.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 16th, 2:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held Friday, September 17th, 10:00 a.m., at Austin Memorial Park.