Thomas Joseph Zarro, born Gaetano Carmine Zarro, on July 8, 1927 in Newark, New Jersey passed away peacefully on December 9, 2003. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Josephine, his three children, Michael, Maria, Diana, their spouses, Tina, Fernando, and Steven, and seven grandchildren, Stephanie, Joseph, Matthew, Natalie, Jacqueline, Mitchell, and Adam.

Tom grew up in the Italian First Ward of Newark, New Jersey, a son of an immigrant and brother to six siblings. He served in the Army during World War II.  At age 27, Tom married his childhood sweetheart, Josephine DePasquale on September 19, 1954. After the birth of their son, Michael, he drove out to California where he first took up residence in Torrance, and then in 1972, Lomita where he raised his children and made a haven for his grandchildren.

For 33 years, Tom was known as “Tommy” to his peers at McDonnell-Douglas/Boeing Aircraft where he heat-treated plane parts and cooked Italian meals for hundreds in the big parts ovens. Tom was known for his selflessness, patience, kindness, and good humor. He never had a negative thing to say and would literally give a stranger the shirt off his back or the shoes off his feet. Anyone and everyone was always welcomed and accepted in Tom’s home and his heart. Animals and children gravitated toward Tom instinctively knowing that they would be cared for, fed, and loved. Tom had a unique way of comforting babies and toddlers when nobody else could. His face illuminated each time he held a baby in his arms.

Tom was known around the neighborhood for his daily walks and intriguing conversations and spent hours listening to those needing a sounding board or advice. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Tom will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His friendship was a blessing to all. The world is one less a teacher, mentor, coach, and role model and a true man.