Mr. Thomas J. Mitchell Sr.

Mr. Thomas J. “Tommy” Mitchell, Sr., age 90, was welcomed home by those who went before him when he passed away on Wednesday, November 2, 2016 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his loving family at his side. Born in Cuba on September 26, 1926, Thomas was the son of the late George and Kameli (Escaf) Mitchell. As a young man, he came to the United States and to Utica to join family. He made his home on Lomond Place “Capron”, a section of town where he proudly spent his life raising his family. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Tommy honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict stationed stateside. On July 30, 1960 he married the former Angela Tanus with whom he shared 56 years in a marriage of their era. Blessed with a virtuous work ethic, Tommy was employed at Chicago Pneumatic for 30 years as a Stockroom Supervisor. Concurrently, he pursued his passion for landscaping and decorative shrubbery, and rendered his knowledge to others in the community. Tommy was always about family, their pursuit of education, and was so much a part of the lives of his loved ones. A communicant of St. Louis Gonzaga Church, Thomas was a true believer and instructed his children to follow in the Lords guidance. He was a member of the St. Elias Society, the Holy Name, and was active during the special events with the Altar Boys, especially during Easter season. You could find him in the Church kitchen decorating Easter eggs, and he always had a watchful eye over the youth of the parish. His church was a second home to him. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #229 and the UFCW Local # 1. Tommy embraced his ethnic background, lived the culture, and enjoyed the food of both his Lebanese and Cuban heritage. He had an inner spirit that attracted people. He was a man who knew the honor of a handshake and fondly remembered when that was a commitment of your intentions. He had a great interest in knowing people and because of his authenticity, he had many admirers. At one time, he was involved in local politics. He was well-versed in many aspects of life and could keep a conversation going. He had a green thumb and his gardens produced fresh produce of which he was so proud. Family gatherings were important to Tommy, especially when everyone was present at Lomond Place, in the kitchen filled with the wonderful scents of food, card games, and heartfelt discussions. When asked of the most precious times in his life, he felt that his greatest accomplishments were each of his children, grandchildren, and the fact that he was a good provider. He remembered dearly the times he spent with his brothers, nephews, and dear friends. It was a great 90 years… Thomas is survived by his wife, Angela; his children and their loves, George A. and Jackie Mitchell, Maria Brodzik, and Kameli and Kevin McIntyre. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Tommy Mitchell, who passed away in 1975 at the age of 12, as well as his son-in-law, Chuck Brodzik, who preceded him in death. He also leaves his grandchildren, Julia Mitchell; Tommy Mitchell, Danielle Brodzik; Lindsay McIntyre, and Kyle McIntyre; and his equally beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and several godchildren; and his in-laws, Winifred “Winnie” Mitchell, and Beatrice “Minnie” Shaheen. Tommy was blessed with many friends who loved and respected him, especially the Acee and Lewis boys. He was predeceased by his siblings and their loves, Mariana and Carlos Grayeb, Joseph and Carmella Mitchell, Rosa and John Hanna, Juana “Papoo” Mitchell, Louis Mitchell, and Anthony J. Mitchell; and his brother-in-law, James Shaheen. The family wishes to extend special thanks to Cardiologist, Dr. Ramzi Nassif and his outstanding staff who were so compassionate in caring for Tommy; the personnel of the Masonic Care Community of NY/Albany Household whose incredible caregivers provided a second home for Tommy, which rejuvenated him. The family is grateful to the members of the Holy Name Society of St. Louis Gonzaga Church for the numerous visits and time spent with Tommy; and also Mary Ellen Gahan who was a fellow resident and good friend. Visitation will be held Monday evening from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Prayer of Incense will be offered at the conclusion of visitation at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Masonic Care Community of NY in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Thomas’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at St. Louis Gonzaga Church where his Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be offered by Chorbishop John D. Faris with Military Honors conferred. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Thomas J. Mitchell Sr.

September 26, 1926 - November 2, 2016