Thomas (Tom) Recalis Obituary
In Loving Memory of

Thomas (Tom) Recalis

1954 ~ 2024

Obituary of Thomas (Tom) Recalis

Thomas Recalis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away suddenly on February 8, 2024. He was born on March 17, 1954, in Greece, and throughout his life, he touched the hearts of many with his kindness, dedication, and zest for life.

Tom was a devoted father to Ryan (Lucretta) and Melissa (Adam) Chitussi, and a cherished "Dedo" to Ethan, Nolan, Emily, Madelyn, and Makayla. He poured his love and wisdom into his family, providing a life he himself had dreamt of. His marriage to his high school sweetheart, Marlene (2018) was a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

Family was of paramount importance to Tom, an example set by his parents Pavlos (2021) and Levena (2010), and he cared deeply for his sister Minnie (Ken) Gibson (2023) and his brother Mike (Lynda). Tom was always ready to lend a helping hand and offer support. Hosting backyard pool parties for his family was also a favourite summer tradition.

Tom found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was passionate about basketball, whether playing, refereeing, or coaching, and his enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. His positive attitude and approachability endeared him to all who knew him, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Tom will be remembered fondly for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends. Though he may be gone, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Tom's life will be held on Saturday, February 17 at Essentials Cremation and Burials Services at 102A – 4300 Drummond Road, Niagara Falls from 2:00p.m until 4:00p.m. and 6:00p.m until 8:00p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SickKids Foundation.

Service Information

A Celebration of Life

Date: February 17, 2024
Start Time: 2:00 pm
End Time: 4:00 pm
Venue: Essentials Cremation and Burials Services at 102A – 4300 Drummond Road, Niagara Falls, ON
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2hc933KzLBZm1T527


A Celebration of Life

Date: February 17, 2024
Start Time: 6:00 pm
End Time: 8:00 pm
Venue: Essentials Cremation and Burials Services at 102A – 4300 Drummond Road, Niagara Falls, ON
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2hc933KzLBZm1T527


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Don & Debbie
2 months ago

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad, our condolences to the family.

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Darius Opoka
2 months ago

I met Tom at IBM where he was my manager since 2005 till his retirement. I will always remember him as a warm person of a great character and integrity. My deepest condolences to the entire Recalis family. May the memories of Tom help you find peace and comfort.

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Kelly and Terry Barratt
2 months ago

Ryan and family,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. We hope that you and your family are able to find comfort in all of the beautiful memories shared over the years.
Our thoughts are with you and the entire family.

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John and Suzanne Gobeil
2 months ago

We are so sorry to hear about his passing! Our condolences. We will be coming to the celebration of life to pay our respects. Love you guys!

Terry & Joanne Thomson
2 months ago

We were so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing and send out our deepest condolences to the family. We worked with Tom on the Red Raiders Executive and he was always smiling. He will be truly missed by so many.

Barb & Jeff Ferguson
2 months ago

We met Tom through Catherine. His smiles and energy will be missed greatly and our campfires at Oakridge will be forever changed. Our condolences to Catherine and the entire Recalis family.

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The Abbruscato Family
2 months ago

We will forever remember Tom as our kind, insightful, helpful, & knowledgeable neighbour. We often had great conversations that left us more uplifted. We will miss him dearly.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family.

Leacroft White
2 months ago

I am deeply sorry for the loss of your dear Tom; his friendship truly cherished.
My deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Chun Lin
2 months ago

You have been a great friend. I will always remember you.

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Jennifer Hance
2 months ago

My deepest condolences to the Recalis family.

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Chevonn/Bodie Cook
2 months ago

Tom coached my son in basketball. Tom was kind, caring and steadfast. Thank you Tom for your service to the community. Our condolences and prayers are sent to the family.

Daniel, Angela, Isabelle and Gabriella Hance
2 months ago

Our most sincere condolences to the Recalis family. We are truly heartbroken to hear of Tom’s passing.
Tom was a real life Angel. He was a genuine, kind, gentle soul that cared deeply for his family and friends. Tom has left a special mark on our hearts and our family will miss him deeply. Rest in Peace Dear friend, thou you are gone you will never be forgotten. So blessed to have known you.

Jun and Cheryl Millado
2 months ago

Our sincere condolences to the Recalis family. Tom has been a great influence to many and the best Manager at IBM. Rest in Peace Tom.

Niki Root
2 months ago

My sincere condolences to the Recalis family. So very sorry to hear about Tom and thinking of you at this very difficult time.

Marissa M.
2 months ago

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May you and your family find strength, comfort and support in each other and those around you during this difficult time. Ryan, you and your family are in our thoughts. πŸ•ŠοΈ

Gladys MacIsaac
2 months ago

I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest prayers and condolences to Melissa, Adam and Family. May your Dad R.I.P.πŸ™πŸΌπŸ•ŠοΈπŸ™πŸΌ

Clark & Chase Wincott
2 months ago

My deepest condolences to the Recalis family. Tom always greeted my son & I with a firm handshake and a warm smile. His love of basketball was infectious. Tom not only kept the kids interested in learning but also taught them the importance of hard work and dedication to achieve their goals. We lost a great one here.

Brian Speed
2 months ago

Sincere condolences to all the family

Bobby Nicol Sr. and Jr.
2 months ago

Our sincere condolences to the Recalis and Chitussi families on the loss of Tom.

Tom was the kindest man and a mentor for me and my son back when we started our basketball journey with the Red Raiders. I was always happy to help Tom out during the instructional days and he truly appreciated it. He truly cared about us and how we were doing. We will surely miss him and thank him.

Sundari Yegna
2 months ago

My deepest condolences to the Recalis family. Tom was my manager at IBM Canada and he was an amazing human being who cared deeply for his team. May his soul rest in peace.

Teresa and Edson Sanecki
2 months ago

Sincere condolences on the loss of Tom. We are friends of Catherine.

Niagara Falls Red Raiders
2 months ago

On behalf of the Niagara Falls Red Raiders, we send our condolences to the family. Tom was an important part of the Niagara basketball community. As a coach, a referee, and part of our executive he helped countless young athletes develop their skills on and off the court. He will be missed by many. Thank you Tom for all your efforts.

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Rick and Barb Jones
2 months ago

We are devastated at the loss of our friend and basketball partner of almost 50 years. Tom will remain in our memory as a wonderful, optimistic friend and family man and we will miss him. Our condolences are with his family and to all who were touched by Tom.
Rest in peace friend, “It’s All Good”.

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Lisa Benger
2 months ago

My deepest condolences to the Recalis family. I didn’t know Tom personally but I know that he was well loved by the Chitussi family and was a dear father and grandfather. Take good care of each other during this difficult time and reflect on the joyful times you spent together.

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Giorshev family
2 months ago

Our condolences to the Recalis family Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time
Cherish the warm thoughts of him and know that he was loved and will be missed by all that knew him.

Jerry Naccarato
2 months ago

Knowing Tom for yhe last few years was an honor and pleasure. I will miss our Tim Hortons chats about basketball. Truly a great man. RIP my friend.

Norbert Preiner, Secretary NDBRA
2 months ago

On behalf of the Niagara District Basketball Referees Association (NDBRA) we send our condolences to the family at this difficult time. Tom was a member of the NDBRA since 2014 and has officiated numerous games at both the high school and elementary level. He will be sorely missed by his colleagues in the association and the basketball community for his passion and love of the game.
RIP Tom

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Peter and Jane
2 months ago

Tom was not just my cousin, he was a dear friend. I have known him his entire life. We played together as toddlers and both met our sweet hearts while in high school.

We had countless meal get-togethers, going to shows, get-aways, went on trips together and always talked about how proud we were of our children.

Although the news of Tom’s passing has been difficult, we will fondly remember and be forever thankful for all the good times we had together.

We love you Tom.
May you Rest In Peace.

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Gary and Kim Ferrao
2 months ago

Our deepest condolences to Ryan, Melissa and the entire Recalis family. Tom was an amazing person, very close friend and we had the pleasure of knowing him for many years,. His generosity and friendship made him a special person !

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Dale Sue Ping
2 months ago

What sad news.
Tom and I were co-workers at Bell, ISM and IBM.
It was a pleasure to have known Tom, worked with him and to have shared many meals together over our careers and even after he retired, at least one of which was at his house in Niagara.

He was a smart, warm and kind person, always happy and smiling. His love of family was apparent. He will be missed.

My condolences.

Stephen Fong & Helene Wong
2 months ago

We are very saddened by the sudden passing of Tom. He was a great person and we had the great honour of knowing him for many years. Our deepest condolences to the Recalis family and may God watch over you all.

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Mark, Rosie, Karenza & Keira Federinko
2 months ago

We are heartbroken. Tom was a very caring, influential, thoughtful and knowledgeable part of our basketball family. He was an integral part of Niagara Falls Red Raiders Executive as well as our Instructional and House League programs. He leaves behind many positive impressions to many hundreds of young impressionable athletes.

Thank you Tom, for your volunteerism and for all that you have done over the years.

We extend our sincerest condolences to Tom’s Family and Friends. May he rest peacefully.

Mark, Rosie, Karenza & Keira Federinko.

Carol Cameron and Paul Williams
2 months ago

Paul and I are truly heartbroken to know that Tom is gone. We are both so grateful that he introduced us and was a good and true friend for many years. Our sincere condolences to all of you. We are sorry to be so far away and miss the memorial but we will think of him and hold him in our hearts.
Love Carol & Paul

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Lou Forsey
2 months ago

My sincerest sympathies to the Recalis family in the loss of Tom. Ryan, y ou are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Love Aunt Lou.

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