Thomas Rago

Thomas W. Rago, of Southbury, passed away at Waterbury Hospital on Friday, April 24th after a brief, acute illness. He had just turned 79 years-old on April 22nd.

Tommy was born and raised in The Bronx. He was predeceased by his parents, Gaetano and Philomena (Lufrano) Rago, and older brother, Vincent Rago. Tommy’s wife of 55 years, Teresa (O’Brien) Rago, passed in December 2019.

Tommy was a family man and larger than life. He had a story about everything and knew someone wherever he went.

In his younger years, Tommy was a member of the Army Reserves and worked laying tile with his Uncle by day and bartending at night. He then began his career with Pathmark supermarket chain, where he worked in various managerial roles including the deli, front end, and bakery. He also volunteered for the Ossining, NY and Naugatuck, CT fire departments.

Tommy retired from Pathmark in 2006 after over 40 years of service. He was selfless and had an admirable work ethic. Everything he did was for his family. He kept busy in his retirement years riding around on his lawn mower, leaf blowing, maintaining the pool, and “supervising” various projects around the house. In his leisure time he enjoyed watching The Red Sox, playing “his numbers” each week, and cheering for his grandchildren’s events.

Tommy leaves behind three daughters, Terri-Ann (Rago) Tilquist, Melissa (Rago) Burrus, and her husband Scott, all of Southbury; and Pam Holt, and her husband Dave, of Naugatuck. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Sam, Carter, Morgan, and Claudia; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.  To leave a message of remembrance, please visit www.CarpinoCares.com.

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