Thomas Joseph Gorlesky's Obituary
Thomas Joseph Gorlesky, 74, of Woodburn, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at Kingston Health Care, Fort Wayne. Born in Jersey City, NJ, he was the son of the late Alexander and Regina (Day) Gorlesky. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven. He served his country in the U.S. Navy as a radarman, serving two tours in Vietnam. After college, he received commissioning to the US Air Force, where he achieved the rank of captain, flying helicopters and fighter jets. After separation from the service, he continued his love of aviation with a career in air operations, including dispatching and air traffic control with several companies around the country. Tom enjoyed golf, fishing, hunting, and traveling. He was a proud father and grandfather and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dianne; children, Janette (Kevin) Richardson, Erin (Adam) Schaum, and Patrick Gorlesky; brother, Alexander Gorlesky of Westbury, NY; grandchildren, Abbey Richardson, Madison, Lila, and Josie Gorlesky, Nolan, Gavin, and Claire Schaum. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Michelle in 1996. Memorial Mass is 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 943 Powers St, New Haven with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is also 5 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Harper’s Community Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven. Burial in the church cemetery with military honors. Preferred memorials are to Parkview Home Health and Hospice or the Wounded Warrior Project.
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