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I am privileged to give this eulogy or attempt to give this eulogy for my Brother, Thomas. We all have our special memories of Thomas and we can all agree that he was truly unique a one-of-a-kind person.
Thomas and I had a wonderful childhood and great parents. Although I don't remember hearing it first hand, when I was born Thomas would always ask my mother, "when I could play with him." Well, soon enough we were rolling. We both loved sports especially baseball and would play until the sun went down and then either watch the Mets on TV or listen to Lindsey Nelson or Bob Murphy on the radio.
Although it was only Thomas and I, we always looked at our cousins as our extended siblings, whether it was playing basketball with Robert and Richard on Christmas day or playing stickball in Staten Island with Uncle Joe and our cousins. Then there was Uncle John's Ellison Villa, where cousin Robert was our camp counselor Then there was the family vacations with the cousins. Early on we use to go to Donelins' resort in Connecticut where they had a large lake and Thomas loved to water ski, he was pretty good. Then there was the resort Brick where we loved to swim and hang out in the game room.
Although it always seemed to rain when we were there, the highlight though was the softball game. Then there was the annual trip to Massachusetts, we always looked forward to going as it was great to see all of our cousins. Then there was the famous trip to the Amish country in Rocky's Volkswagen with cousin Cynthia. As usual there was a lot of singing and goofing off.
We always loved the Mets and as kids we would ride our bikes from Forest Hills to Shea Stadium to check out the stadium. This was a pretty far ride for some young teenagers and I am sure my Mother had no idea we were there. We would sneak in and sometimes got to see some players. We got To know the stadium pretty well.
Thomas was always an A student but he really came into his own at Archbishop Molloy High School, he loved being a Stanner. He made some great friends, including his long time friend Joe. Thomas ran track in high school. He was a pretty fast runner and as I recall he once ran a 220 yard dash in 23.8. In addition Thomas found a new passion softball. We played together for many years from Jones Beach to New Dorp. He was a very good outfielder and a great number two hitter, he would always get on base with a hit or a walk. He mostly batted 2 and I batter 3, when our team was down, "he would always tell me he would get on base so that I could drive him in!" He was so fast he could score on a single. Thomas was an interesting guy. He was a history buff and could hold his own with anyone. He also was an avid Beatles fan, with his favorite Beatles’ being George and Ringo.
Thomas loved his family and loved life! He would never miss a family event!
Another one of Thomas' passion was children. I can remember when my daughter Nicole was born, Thomas was probably over every weekend to hold her or as she got older to play with her, and being Thomas.... for any of you who saw the picture at the funeral parlor of Nicole and Thomas with a paper bag on his head, that was classic Thomas. Then when Michael was born, wow here it was a newly minted Met Fan. Thomas always made sure Michael had Met hats and shirts.
Well the very same year Thomas had met Maria or The Zia as he fondly called her. Wow that was it Thomas was in love. This was the girl of his dreams. Maria represented everything Thomas wanted in a wife. Well with Maria came her wonderful family and Thomas loved all of them especially his Nieces and Nephews,Vanessa, Daniela, Christina, Alyssa, Johnny, Anthony and Brianna.
A wonderful thing happened to Thomas in October of 1996, Julia was born. An amazing and wonderful day for Thomas he was fulfilled. His ju ju bean. Well 2 years later Matthew was born. Thomas had a son, he was thrilled. This was little Thomas a prodigy, the professor Matt man. And the next year Thomas was blessed with Elena his Lainsy, Elena Marie.
Anyone who knew Thomas knows how he loved his family, Although not blessed with a good voice Thomas created and sang songs about his children.
Thomas would always tell everyone how wonderful his wife Maria was, Maria completed Thomas.
Maria, thanks for making Thomas so happy!
Rather then talk about the disease that took Thomas I would rather talk about how strong he was and how he loved life and fought to stay alive. No man could endure what he did and still fight to the very last minute. What helps me to accept this if there is any way too accept this is to know how much my brother loved my mother and to know that he is with her now. They are looking down at us smiling!
I Love you Thomas and I will miss you greatly. My memories are the only thing I have left. But those shall never fade. Your body may be lifeless, but your spirit will always be with us.
My Daddy
My Daddy By Julia Martocci
To Matthew, Elena, and I my Dad was the best Dad in the whole world and we loved him so dearly. He used to do everything for us and we could always count on him (especially to help with our homework no matter how late he would come home from work). The best times were when Daddy took us on his “adventures”. Whenever my Mom went out and my Dad watched us, he would pack us lunch, drinks and off we’d go. He took us to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, ride on the Staten Island Ferry, and one time he took us to the Feast of St. Genaro. I loved when my Dad was able to chaperone our class trips. His last trip was to Ellis Island. We had so much fun, but at one part of the trip I lost my jacket and his determination led him to find it for me. Even though my Dad made things fun for us, he taught us so much. He taught Matthew and Elena to play the piano, he taught us a lot about history, he bought us special learning placemats, and he would take a large white board and teach us English and Math, even before we started school. He taught us the value of family and that we are brothers and sisters forever and no matter whether we argue, we should always make up and love each other. From a young age he taught us to compromise. He always made it fun for us to learn and keep our attention. His hobby was learning all about trains. Every time we took the subway, he would tell us all about the different lines and where they would go. My dad had a special gift he made everyone feel special. He made up different names for us and for my cousins. Mine was ju-ju bean, Matthew’s was “The Professor” and Elena’s was “La Gatina”. My dad also loved music so when we were little he made up special songs for each of us for all to remember. A hidden talent that my Dad had was that he was a great cook. He loved to experiment with different ingredients and whatever it was that he mixed together was delicious. His favorite was Bolognese sauce. I will miss my Dad and hopefully he is happy in heaven. I thank him for teaching me all that he could in the short amount of time we had together. I love you very much Daddy and you’ll always live on in my heart.
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Uncle Thomas was a great uncle. He would never miss any event I had growing up whether it was school plays or confirmation or birthdays he never missed anything. He was always available to help me with homework. He was a great father to Julia and Elena and Matthew. He was always teaching them new and exciting things. He made learning fun for them. He was one of the most caring people I know. I miss him but I know he is with my grandma smiling down at everyone.
Ellen Martocci
Mon, Sep 14, 2009
My Brother-In-Law
I can't believe today is a year since Thomas is gone. I think of him so often, whether I see a picture of him, hear a Beetle song, or look at my husbands sad eyes. I try to remember him laughing, playing the only song I know on the piano with me, staying up to wee hours in the morning just talking, playing with the kids and smiling. Great memories I will always cherish. I know he is not alone. He is with my Mother-In-Law,and they are both looking down watching over us, and that gives me comfort.
Forever you will be in my heart and missed.
Julia Martocci <3
Sat, Sep 12, 2009
First of all I would like to thank all of you who have written on this Eulogy page for my daddy. This means so much to me.He was such a wonderful person and I really cherished all the moments I had with him.
I can't believe it has almost been a year since my Dad left us.But what can I say, time goes so fast.Just yesterday I remember my dad dancing around,jumping up and down,making jokes,singing and just being his usual fun loving happy self.
He taught us one of the most important things in life,to compromise with each other and also that friends come and go but family will be here forever whether it's on earth or in heaven and thats what our family's foundation was and still is built on.
My dad also had so many talents he shared with us such as....he was a great piano player,he was a history buff,he also played the guitar,and was a great computer and math teacher or as they called him, "Professor". Another thing I loved is when he took me to school with him even though I didn't understand most of what he taught. It was great just being with my daddy.
He was such a life loving person. As a child, I have many questions,but who doesnt,like why did this happen?,how?,I just can't understand,but still no one can.
I have so many happy memories that make me laugh or even sometimes makes me cry,but who doesn't cry. When you love someone so very much and care about them I can't believe anyone wouldn't.
My dad used to always make me happy and help me out of trouble and when he got sick I felt like I had to do the same for him.
I feel also that it was a gift for anyone who knew him.He was the nicest and the smartest person I have ever known,and that's why everyone misses him dearly.Him leaving us and going to heaven,left a giant gap(hole) in our hearts and I will never, ever be able to fill that gap,(I don't even know if I want to)...... Even though there is a gap you are still in my heart.
I LOVE YOU DADDY SOOOO MUCH AND I MISS YOU!!!! <3
Julia
Elena Martocci
Sat, Sep 12, 2009
My Daddy was and still is the best daddy in the world. I love him so much and I miss him so much. My Dad was so smart, helpful, caring, loving, funny, and,interesting. When I saw his face it brought a big smile to mine. He gave nicknames to my cousins, my brother and sister and me, and even my mom. He took the time to write songs about us like Elena Marie,and Matthew Bello. He was always there for me. I can't believe it is already a year! Time has gone so fast because I feel like it was only yesterday when he was tickling me, hugging and kissing me. He made me laugh and told funny jokes when I was sad so I would feel better. He took me on adventures to the Brooklyn Bridge and the San Gennaro feast. I can't believe he passed away. There were so many things that I would have wanted to ask him and tell him, but never got a chance. I know he wouldn't want me to be sad, but, he also wouldn't want me to be all bottled up inside and so this is one way of letting it out. I love my daddy with all my heart and I hope to see him again someday.
Gerard Brown-Eckstein
Sat, Sep 12, 2009
My Mom just told me what a BIG Beatles fan you were. I just got Beatles Rock Band and I understand why. I love the music. My Mom told me when she listens to me play she enjoys it so much and thinks of you. It's an honor to be your cousin, you are a great person and you will forever be in my heart. P.S. I am proud to share my name with yours. (Thomas Gerard Martocci)
Scot Antonucci
Sat, Sep 12, 2009
The outing is finally here.A day I look forward to, a day with family and friends. I'm very so happy that this year is being played in honor of our cousin and friend Thomas.It is a tribute altogether fitting and right. Thomas was the epitome of what family and friendship is all about.That fact that money is being raised to go to such a worthy cause we all know would make him very happy.Thomas even though today will be in your honor, you are in our thoughts and prayers not just today, but everyday.Joyce and I will forever love and miss you!
Your cousin,
Scot
P.S. I would never put your in the awkward position of asking the good Lord to favor my golf game over some of the other family members.But if a gale force wind should happen to come from the right while I'm slicing my drive, It would be greatly appreciated. :)
Shane Batt
Fri, Sep 11, 2009
I never did get the privilege of meeting Mr. Thomas Martocci, however I wanted to write a brief note on the legacy left by this great man.
I remember it vividly, it was a little over a year ago that I met Nicole (now my wonderful wife) and the Martocci family. They were still going through the shock of losing Thomas at such a young age. However, the entire family still welcomed me with open arms. As I continued to get to know the family, I began to see how wonderful this man was and I wished so much that I could have met him.
Thomas's three children, Matthew, Elena, and Julia are three of the neatest kids I have ever met. They are so smart, mature, loving, and strong. And when I say strong, I mean incredibly strong. They handle what happened to their father with so much maturity and always remember the lessons that their father taught them. Maria is also an amazing woman to be able to handle everything she has been through and is one of the nicest women I have ever met.
Also, the stories I have heard about Thomas are incredible. He must have been so smart having a MBA from Fordham, great athletic ability, and most importantly an incredible family man.
Most of us take life for granted and get caught up in the hectic traffic of life, however Thomas was able to find the right boundaries and focus on what was most important, which is family. I know Thomas is gone, but he is definitley here in spirit. And what he passed on is incredible. I mean Matthew can already name like every President nominated!!!
The Badalamenti Family
Fri, Sep 11, 2009
Thomas, you will forever be in our hearts. You were such a terrific uncle to Vanessa, Daniela and Godfather to Cristina. They had so much fun when they were with you. You were such a loving and caring person who always knew how to make us laugh. We miss you and think about you always.
John & Anna Coriasco
Fri, Sep 11, 2009
We can't believe it is almost a year since we last had Thomas here with us. His presence is so missed by us, as well as his neice & nephew, Alyssa & Johnny. Hardly a day goes by that we don't think about him and his special, caring and giving ways. We miss you, Thomas.
Cynthia Brown
Tue, Sep 08, 2009
David, I still have such an emptiness in my heart. I always think about all of our good memories and how I still miss him very much. I find great comfort in knowing he is with your mother and my father. I treasure all of our conversations and how much he taught me. I deeply miss him. My cousin, my brother.
Love you always.
Jim Rinaldo
Tue, Sep 08, 2009
David,
Listening to your eulogy and now reading it again made me think, it was a tribute not a eulogy to Thomas. I can remember so vividly the family get togethers and the fun we had. We didn't get together to often because you were in Queens and we were on Staten Island, but I will cherish the times we had. I will miss talking about the Mets with Thomas and his jokes and your mom's love. I miss them both.
R, Salmon
Fri, Sep 04, 2009
Tom Martocci possessed an impressive sense of joy throughout his life, a unique grace in itself. I am sure that we can all agree, Tom scattered that joy to everyone within range. In my mind's eye, I can still see him, standing near the blackboard, ready to share another dollop of his great humor. "Have you heard this one?...." Yes, his life brightened our common years, making the days easier. Haven't you also noticed that good people are like stars, "you don't always see them, but you know that they are always there."
Joe Salamone
Thu, Sep 03, 2009
Dave,
Just saw this today.....I was very saddened to hear about Tom and equally saddened that we had lost touch over the years. Your eulogy did put a smile on my face thinking of you calling out the linup for the hapless Ryders. Be well
Joe
Gene Kirk
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
Thomas and I were close friends even though we were not close in age. Thomas was 29 years my junior. There was a chemistry between us that transcended age. We confided in each other because we both knew that a confidence once told would never be violated by either of us.
Thomas had so many good qualities it is difficult to pick out the best one. But the one I remember the most was when we worked together we normally had lunch together. Many times we would rush through our lunch so we could make the 1:15 PM Mass at St Agnes Church around the corner from the News. He always felt revived when mass was over and we headed back to the office.
Thomas will never be forgotten not by me or anyone who knew him.
Rest in Peace, my friend.
vicky mandaro
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
every sunday in church i think of thomas not how he was when he was sick but have he was when he had his black hair and bushy mustache.thomas had a way about him that made everyone happy always had a great story and that huge video camara thomas will always be remembered in such a great way.we,ll always see him in his three wonderful children i love u thomas you were a super great guy
Chris Higgins
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
Dave,
I'm very sorry for your loss. I will always remember your brother's quick wit and sense of humor. He always made me laugh. I'd see him every so often with a mutual friend of ours from Molloy. Each time we met, I'd begin by first asking about you. I guess I did this enough that Tom used it as a joke to automatically introduce himself to others as "Dave's brother." Then, to add to this feigned slight, I would mistakeningly call him "Dave" and he would never let me live it down. It has been many years since I've seen Tom, but I cannot help smiling when I think about him. He was a wonderful guy.
Richard Adamo
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
Dave,
I am shocked and saddened to hear about Tom. I'm so sorry to hear the news. he was a great help to me. I don't know if you'll remember how he helped me with math when I was younger. He tutored me for many hours in your dining room. I have many fond memories of your family playing with Buffy(remember her?), and of course your parents. Please extend my condolences to Tom's family. I will keep all of you in my thoughts. Peace.
Tim Johnson
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
I knew Thomas from Our Lady of Mercy and from Molloy. We played together, sometimes on Nansen Street, sometimes on Loubet Street, and sometimes at "Greenfield" on Metropolitan and Union Tpke. I just learned of Thomas' passing on the AMHS Alumni Letter. I am sad for his family, but am also very glad he had such a good, albeit short, life. My heart goes out to Thomas' wife and children, and David, the Roc. Thank you for posting Thomas' euolgy.
Joe Levano
Tue, Aug 25, 2009
Thomas is a real hero to me and my family; we admired his strength, courage, goodness and kindness. His being my best friend was a rare and precious gift and I feel truly very lucky and blessed. He was patient, intelligent, trustworthy, funny, witty, and compassionate. He was a great communicator and an even better listener. His wisdom and calmness helped me many times. He is a wonderful and shinning example of God's Love in action to me. I try everyday to be a reflection of his sprit in my life. As David said so well that he was truly unique, one-of-a-kind person. The aspect of Tom's Love may have changed but not the essence. He is eternal and a part of us all forever.
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