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Burlace, Thomas Joseph Jr., 74, Beloved Father, Grandfather, and Friend, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, died quietly Saturday, October 18, 2008 after a battle against cancer. Born in New York, NY, Tom attended Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx, NY and then went on to serve his country in the Korean War as a member of 98th Bomb Group. After completing his service to his country, Tom became part of the Eastern Airlines heritage and held positions throughout his career as Pilot, Captain, FAA Consultant and Chief Pilot. Tom leaves behind his brothers: James Burlace, Bronx, NY, John Burlace, Bourbonnais, IL. And his beloved children: Thomas-Burlace III & wife Debbie; Colleen Burlace Jakl & husband Scott; Marianne Burlace Luconi & husband Anthony; Carolyn Burlace Carey & husband Robert; Kevin Burlace & wife Dawn and Brian Burlace & wife Stephanie. Tom also leaves behind fifteen and one half grandchildren and numerous beloved relatives and friends. Tom loved life, laughter and enjoyed every moment to the fullest. He will be forever remembered for his laugh and kindness. He has "Gone West" into his next journey. May it be a safe and happy one. An Irish Wake/ 75th Birthday party will be held in his honor on Wednesday October 22nd, 2008 6:00 PM Sunset "Fly By" 7:00 PM at The Lauderdale Isles Yacht Club 2637 Whale Harbor Lane, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312-4647. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society or the VFW would be appreciated.
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I went to school with Tom, both grade school at St. Benedict's and Cardinal Hayes High School. Graduated in 1952. I remember Tom being a quiet but serious person who was a good friend. We were both born in October, he on the 22nd and me on the 23rd. I was thinking of him today since, in two days I will be 89. I googled his name and was saddened to read of his passing. But I see he led a fruitful life and took advantage of his God giving intellect. My thoughts and prayers go with him and his entire family. Matt Bevilacqua
Matthew Bevilacqua
School
October 21, 2023
I will love forever the times with Tom at The City Island Yacht Club in the Bronx and at his home in Caldwell (?). The laugh that can never be forgotten. He was truly the one to be with for fun times. Thanks for all the laughs and the times at Eastern that you allowed me to be with you in. Godspeed oh Great Aviator. You are missed.
Bruce Hansen
November 2, 2021
Tom was the greatest guy to fly with. Nice to everyone, a great pilot. We were friends!
Philip Simone
October 9, 2021
I worked in the flight scheduling office when Tom was JFK chief pilot. He was a fine man who had a great sense of humor. I'm sure you miss him terribly. He was a good man.
Jeff Geiler
July 30, 2009
Tom was one of the first Captains that I flew with as a new hire pilot with Eastern Airlines in 1966. He was an absolute joy to fly with, and he was one of my favorite crew mates. I was lucky enough to deal with Tom in various jobs throughout my career with Eastern. I can still hear his laugh!
Sandy Scott
Sandy Scott
November 3, 2008
Tom was a true friend of mine since the 70's. We laughed a lot, and who couldn't when around Tom. He would call after a period of time, and it was always as if we just talked yesterday. What a Prince. Many an Irsh Coffee we had. Surely will be missed. Mary and David Sharpe
Mary & David Sharpe
October 24, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Laura Brett
October 23, 2008
You might get this twice.
Tom loved his family and sharing stories of the kids growing up "episodes". I feel blessed having spent time with Tom and the good memories I have. We did have fun and shared a lot of cups, laughter and happiness. We felt it was our duty to share the Irish wit with those around us and I don't believe we ever got into any serious trouble for it. I just smile when I think of Tom. I feel I am a better person for knowing him and having such fine memories.
Anne O'Brien
October 22, 2008
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