Early Sunday morning our dear husband and father went to be with his maker, Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was 91, and most of those years he served his church, his family and his customers who became like an extended family to him. The angels are rejoicing because Tom has met up with his brother-in-law, Reno Ventre, and his sister, Josephine Rufo. Together, Reno and Tom are playing their voilins, accompanied at the piano by Josephine, making beautiful music in praise to our God. They sure are enjoying being in the presence of our Lord. Father and Son Barber Shop was where Tom spent most of his life. Previous to this, he was employed by General Motors for 16 years. During this time, however, he was helping his father-in-law, Anthony Pagano, in the barber shop every chance he had. In 1955, Tom became the proprietor and ran the business successfully until his retirement in December 2001. This shop was more than a business to him. He enoyed his customers and shared everyday life with them. He loved his customers from the youngest child, who wouldn't sit still, to the oldest one who fussed about his haircut. He aimed to please!! First Christian Assembly was Tom and his wife, Fannie's, favorite place to be when not at home or work. He enjoyed serving in his church for almost 50 years. He held multiple positions and wore many hats. His ability to communicate with people was an asset in his many terms on the board as a trustee and deacon. His love of music and his melodious tenor voice made him a frequent soloist and faithful choir member. He also was a member of the church orchestra, where he enjoyed playing his violin. Teaching Sunday school was another favorite whether it was a class of young active boys or helping adults understand the Bible. Back in the early days, he taught a class in the Italian language explaining the Word of God. Surviving are his wife, Fannie (Pagano) of 70 years; his daughters, Rosemary (Salvatore) Mariano of Syracuse and Gloria Christian of Franklin, MA; his sons, John (Shirley) Ippolito of Baldwinsville, Anthony (Tricia) Ippolito of Liverpool; his sisters, Antionette Ventre of Holland Patent and Leah Mikos of West Melbourne, FL; 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. at First Christian Assembly, 705 Hamilton Street, on Friday, April 11, 2008, Rev. Ron Warne officiating. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners. Calling hours will be held at First Christian Assembly on Thursday, April 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. DeWitt Memorial is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Thomas Ippolito, may be made to First Christian Assembly, 705 Hamilton Street, Syracuse, NY 13204.

Published in Syracuse Post Standard on April 8, 2008