In Memory of

Class of 1968
May 15, 1949 - Dec 16, 2025

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OBITUARY

Thomas Robert Rossi Sr.
MAY 15, 1949 – DECEMBER 16, 2025

Obituary of Thomas Robert Rossi Sr.
IN THE CARE OF
Harry J Will Funeral Homes
Thomas Robert Rossi, Sr. was born on May 15, 1949, in Pittsburgh, PA. He passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by the love, comfort, and presence of his family.
Tom was the beloved husband of over 56 cherished years to Kathleen Rossi, whose partnership, love, and devotion meant everything to him. He was a loving and proud father to Thomas (Renata) Rossi, Jr. and Melissa (Bill) Sennett. He was a devoted grandpa to Nicholas (Christina) Rossi, Anthony (Leana) Rossi, Alexandra Rossi, Billy Sennett, and Kailey Sennett. His grandchildren were a constant source of pride and joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He was a dear brother to Joseph Rossi, John (Elizabeth) Rossi, and Cheryl (Frank) Rossi-Walczak, and he is also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Tom shared a very special bond with his cats, George, Walker, and Oreo, who were truly his babies and brought him daily companionship and happiness.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, a commitment he held with deep honor and pride throughout his life. His military service was not simply a chapter of his past, but a defining part of who he was. He was honored with the National Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal, distinctions he carried with humility and respect. Tom believed in honoring those who served alongside him and those who followed.

After his military service, Tom continued his lifelong dedication to veterans through extensive involvement with the VFW and veteran support organizations. He was a devoted and active member of the VFW and proudly served as Commander of James Donovan Post 78 for 4 years. His leadership was rooted in service, compassion, and advocacy. From 2009 to 2020, Tom was a member of the State Honor Guard, where he helped ensure fallen veterans were honored with dignity and respect. During his time with the State Honor Guard, he was a member of the team that proudly won the National Championship 3 different years—an achievement that meant a great deal to him.

Tom had a deep passion for helping veterans navigate life after service. He dedicated countless hours working with veteran organizations to assist returning veterans from recent wars. He believed strongly that no veteran should ever feel forgotten or unsupported, and he worked tirelessly to advocate for their care, dignity, and recognition.

Tom was actively involved in year-round programs that provided school supplies for children of veteran families and helped organize Christmas gifts, celebrations, and parties to ensure veterans and their families felt supported and remembered during the holidays. His compassion extended to crisis response as well—Tom volunteered with the Red Cross and proudly participated in cleanup and rescue efforts following Hurricane Katrina, offering his time, strength, and care to those in need.

A man of deep faith and service, Tom also devoted himself to caring for others through his church and community. He delivered communion to the sick and homebound at Heritage Hospital, Oakwood Hospital, and Oakmont Senior Living Center, where he and his wife, Kathleen, resided. At Oakmont Senior Living, Tom became affectionately known as “Mr. Oakmont” because of his constant willingness to help. He assisted fellow residents with feeding and walking their pets, helped care for the gardens and grounds, and always looked for ways to make life a little easier for those around him. He even fed the deer and other wildlife that would frequently visit.

Tom was an avid coin collector and took great pride in his collection, but above all else, his greatest accomplishment was his family. They always came first. He had a contagious smile, a warm presence, and a laugh that could light up any room. Tom was known as a devoted caregiver, someone who never hesitated to help anyone in need. He had a strong sense of independence and liked things done his way, but his heart was always guided by generosity and love. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, passing his passion and skills to his grandchildren.

Funeral visitation will be held at Harry J. Will Funeral Homes, located at 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan, 48152, on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Military Honors will take place at 7:00 pm, followed by a Rosary at 7:30 pm.

The Funeral In State will be held at Our Lady Of The Angels Church, 6442 Pelham Rd, Taylor, MI, 48180, on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 9:30 am. The Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 am. Luncheon will follow at Park Place-Dearborn, 23400 Park St, Dearborn, MI, 48124, from 11:30am – 3:30pm.

Tom will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery, located at 4200 Belford Road, Holly at 10:30am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, where his service and sacrifice will be honored alongside fellow veterans.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers, and K9s For Warriors, organizations that reflect his lifelong dedication to serving and supporting veterans.