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Thomas DONATO Obituary
DONATO, Thomas Alan
(5/12/48 - 3/27/12)
Loving husband, father, brother, uncle, teacher, coach, and friend. Tom 'Tommy' Donato was born and raised in Sacramento. He attended Holy Spirit Grammar School, Christian Brothers High School, and Saint Mary's College. He also received his Master's Degree in Spanish from Sacramento State University. He loved sports and played throughout his school days, as well as, two years of football in college.
In 1971, he fell in love with the woman of his dreams, Terri. It was truly love at first sight, and they were inseparable from that day forward. Tom and Terri spent 38 blessed years of marriage together. Tom also devoted 36 years of his life to Jesuit High School as a teacher. Although he lectured about Spanish, he always said he taught students. In 1983, Tom and Terri were blessed to give birth to their only child, Alan. Tom coached several of Alan's Little League teams, as well as, football and baseball at Jesuit for a number of years. Tom will always be remembered as the most generous, loving, kind, witty, and cherished father and husband one could ever hope for.
Tom leaves behind a wealth of family and friends (many he has known since kindergarten), who will miss him greatly. Tom now rejoins his beloved parents, the late Toni and Al Donato. He is survived by his loving wife, Terri, his proud son, Alan (Katy), and his caring sisters, Mona Witry (Jack), Bonnie Andre (Ron), and Linda Donato, and numerous nieces and nephews. We all know that Tom is in heaven smiling down on us, and hopefully the 'Fair Guy' can convince the man upstairs to let us in too, so that we can laugh with Tom for the rest of eternity. We love you so much and will miss you always.
Please join us to celebrate Tom's life at Holy Spirit Church on Tuesday April 3 at 7pm for the Rosary and Wednesday April 4 at 11am for the Funeral Mass. Remembrances in his name may be made to the American Cancer Society or our local SPCA. Please sign the on-line guestbook at
gormleyandsons.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas DONATO
Ron Bernard
May 11, 2020
Tom was one of the finest friends I ever had. I taught with Tom at Jesuit High School for six years.
After his retirement, I met him only once for coffee, but he was the same self I had known.
I was saddened to hear of Tom's passing.
The only reason I am aware of his death is because I tried to contact him today (the year is 2020), and didn't receive a response.
It is always a surprise when one loses the ability to speak with such a quality person.
Tom is with his Heavenly family now. Perhaps one day soon we will meet again.
Ron Bernard
DOUGIE GRANADOS
February 21, 2013
WOW-A TEAR CAME TO MY EYES AND A WHOLE IN MY HEART WHEN I READ THE NEWS ABOUT MY OLDEST AND BEST CHILDHOOD FRIEND TOMMY DONATO. JUST BY CHANCE I LOOKED TOMMY UP ON FACEBOOK AND JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT HIS PASSING. MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO MONA, BONNIE, LINDA AND THE REST OF HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
IT HAS BEEN A LONG LONG TIME MY OLD FRIEND BUT YOU WILL BE MISSED. GOSH, THE STORIES I COULD TELL ABOUT OUR YOUNG LIVES IN SACRAMENTO AND PLAYING IN THE BONEYARD, BY THE RAILROAD TRACKS, AND JUST GETTING INTO KID TROUBLE. DOOD BYE MY FRIEND TOMMY
Deanna Young
December 24, 2012
Dear Teri and Alan,
We are so sorry for your loss. I remember him and you at Alan's baseball games. You were both so very supportive.
I know he he will the guardian angel for your new granddaughter when she arrives.
Nancy Boemer
April 11, 2012
Terri,
We had so many good times playing softball with you and our favorite coach,Tom! Such a wonderful man, I am so very sorry for your loss.
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April 5, 2012
Dear Terri I will truly miss Tom. In my 39 years of teaching I do not believe I met a person with so much passion for other people. Tom was one of a kind. I loved him!
April 4, 2012
Tom was somebody who made you feel special..he will be greatly missed! The Rosary, the Funeral and the Reception was first class...just like the Donato Family! Our Prayers Are With You..Danny Williams and Gayle Lake
Jim Sevey - Class of 1987
April 4, 2012
There are those teachers and people that truly help weave the fabric of one's character. Tom Donato was that guy...the fair guy. Spanish was never my strength, but Mr. Donato taught so much more than that....he taught to adults...at least that is how he made you feel. From the Test Shoes to allowing those less fortunate to score well and actually get the candy...he allowed us to smell the wrapper. Knowing his great sense of humor, leave it to Mr. Donato to schedule his celebration on Spring Break. RIP Fair Guy, you left your mark by teaching us respect by example.
Eddie Puchi '89
April 4, 2012
Mr. Donato was one of my favorite teachers at Jesuit and I never had him for a single class. But if I ever needed someone to talk to, he would be there without hesitation. My deepest condolences to his immediate family and his extended family at J-high.
carl boyer
April 4, 2012
tom was always great fun,especially when the boys got together (team 1 and team 2)...golfing,vacationing,or whatever he the life of the party...he wiil surely be missed by all, but the thought of him will bring a smile to our face.
Henri Santos-Coy
April 3, 2012
Tommy will be missed by all his classmates of '66...he stepped up to help myself & Patty with our joint class reunion with CB & SFHS. He called on many of the guys encouraging them to attend & did research getting e-mails, etc. without his efforts it wouldn't have been as successful & what fun we all had catching up. He was a friend, a generous man, & young at heart to leave us so soon.
Terri & Alan...may you be surrounded with love & light during this difficult time with all your friends & family.
Sue Warren
April 3, 2012
Terri and Alan, I don't have to tell either of you what a "GREAT" person Tommy was. From our first days together as faculty at Jesuit, to Camp Sacramento, Santa Cruz, Lake Tahoe, BBQ's in the back yard, NO ONE could make me laugh the way he did. He was one of a kind! We only get the pleasure of those kind of people a few times in our lives. I feel so lucky to have been a part of Tom's life, along with Terri and Alan. His legacy will be with all of us forever. Our heartfelt love to both of you. Sue and Tim
Mike Leonard '75
April 3, 2012
Tom was my Spanish teacher at Jesuit in '73 and '74. He became my good friend in more recent years, when we reconnected after his retirement.
I will miss his wisdom, his insight, and most of all, his wicked humor.
Tom always had a smile on his face, a funny story to tell, and an encouraging warmth about him.
I will miss him very much, especially every May 12.
Vaya con dios, mi Maestro y mi amigo.
Tom's last class at Jesuit, May 22, 2006
April 3, 2012
Janet White McIntyre
April 2, 2012
When I was at Holy Spirit I went to the
Donato's house for a New Years Eve Party. It was great fun
with lots of singing. This would have been in the 1950's. My big brother picked me up at midnight.
My love to all the family. Janet
David Gutierrez
April 2, 2012
Mr. D,
I sit at this computer remembering all I knew of him and my eyes fill with tears. This man is straight forward, loving, and honest. I had the privilege of taking his spanish course at J-high and will never forget his influence on my life. The man was much more than an instructor, he was mentor. The odd part is, a few days ago I found myself thinking about him and the interactions we had. This is the man I wish to be at the age I met him. Forever Mr. D, you are loved even in death.
April 2, 2012
This guy made all the difference in my early years at Jesuit...He saw I was better than what I was showing...He made me better. I don't know how he put up with me, but he did, because underneath all the bragging and loudmouth posturing, he saw that I hated to lose. And that I was a smart, intelligent, capable young man even though I didn't see it myself at the time. I saw him a few years back and told him how much I appreciated him having took me under my wing during those difficult first couple of years. Mr. Donato did exactly what Emerson's poem says about "to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived--this is to have succeeded"...He taught me how to win. He lit a fire under all of us that had him as a teacher, coach and friend--he made us all better and to strive to be better. I will never forget. Mark Bryant '92
Jim McGuire
April 2, 2012
I am greatly saddened by this news. I have fond memories of playing cribbage with Tom during our years together at St. Mary's College. We kidded each other and always had a good laugh. This is a terrible loss and my thoughts and prayers are with Terri and his entire family.
Ron (ronnie) Devine
April 2, 2012
To Linda, Bonnie & Mona....Words can never express the pain we feel at times like these.
I've felt similar pain(Lori)
But good memories of times past, when we were kids will always take precedence! I remember and only you will know what I mean when I say..Spinach Pills...Button Button who's got the button & Beatle music.
The only thing that keeps me going with crisis we face is faith! Faith in our Creator, who's will is for us not to be in pain, not to suffer hardship and not to die but live forever on a Paradise Earth (Revelation 21:4)
God's Word truly gives comfort and hope for the future. We will see all our lost loved ones again!
Read Acts 24:15
I LOVE You Dearly...Ron Devine
Mitzi sends her Love as well !!!
Ryan Lucia
April 2, 2012
A great man who will always be remembered.
Patty Watson-Thielen
April 2, 2012
To the Donato family and the Holy Spirit/Christian Brothers band of brothers. My heart aches for your loss. Tom was a genuine human being in every good, positive and honorable way. His star shines very bright.
Edye Marvin
April 2, 2012
Terri, my years with you and Tommy have been and will continue to be among my best memories of great friendships that come along once in a lifetime. My loving thoughts are with you, Alan and Katy.
Edye
Danny Dickfoss
April 1, 2012
I'll never forget ...Big Dan! Came that booming voice of Tom's. How's Dominic? Then off we'd go on baseball or things ...whatever was going on. He was so proud of Alan , Ter-bear, Valhalla. I met Tom in the early 90's as did all the parents of Spanish students. I was kissing his butt for Dom so often they called me Mr. Rumpkiss. Well we started talking baseball and our son's. I was so lucky to have been been able to meet and get to know Tom, Ter-bear and Alan. You're all a class act and You do not grieve alone. Much Love Danny Dickfoss
April 1, 2012
Terri: we have fond memories of gatherings of Tom, you, and Alan at Steve and Jan Scully's home. Blaine loved having Tom for his Spanish teacher at Jesuit H.S. Our prayers are with you & your family.
Bob & Kathy Hansen (Jan Scully's parents)
Tim French
April 1, 2012
You brought a sense of Christian Brother's spirit to Jesuit. Tom had great stories from his own life experiences - loving to share them with his students. Thank for your humor, effort, grit and knowledge.
Tim Melanson
April 1, 2012
A good man.
Gary Garcia
April 1, 2012
For the Donato Family I am so sorry to hear of Your Loss. Mr Donato taught me at Jesuit. His affablle personality, his passion for teaching, his ability to grab and motivate a group of young men was undeniable. His easy smileand natural wit were infectious. I haven't seen him since leaving Jesuit some 20+ years ago, and yet I truly feel like there is something missing in my life now. I was fortunate one summer to travel through central Mexico with him as our guide. I have many times since returned to Mexico, and what I always remember and take with me (or at least attempt to) is Senor Donato's easy going way of making conversation and treating Everyone with respect. I teach a Lot of Kids in my business, and I often find myselfs using some of his motivational tactics. God Blessed Us with You Tom Donato!
Salud Senor! Vaya con Dios
David Nicholson '83
March 31, 2012
I had Tom Donato for Spanish and he was a great teacher. More than that, he was a great man. 30 years later I still have vivid memories of the way he connected with us as students with humor so that he could communicate life lessons. Condolences to his family. Tom touched hundreds of lives in a profound way.
Sharen Kochie-Cornils
March 31, 2012
Mona and Bonnie, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved brother. God be with you and your family. You are in my prayers.
Sharen Kochie Cornils
Tim & Alyson Cooney
March 31, 2012
Although we haven't seen Tom since our Jesuit years, we often fondly think back on all the fun we had. Thank you for the memories...until we meet again. Love and prayers to the Donato Family.
March 31, 2012
RIP Senor Donato
David Kelley
March 31, 2012
Ok Tom, you are truly Team 1 now, you will be missed by me and all of your friends. Thanks for all the laughs.
David Kelley
Janet Bollinger
March 31, 2012
Tom was one of a kind. If you were lucky enough to run into him, you knew that you would leave the conversation with a smile on your face and your day would be better. I was lucky to share the Holy Spirit years with him, class of 1962. He will be so missed. Terri and Alan, Mona, Bonnie and Linda, you are in my prayers.
Mike Nolan
March 31, 2012
I had Mr. Donato in 2 years of Spanish and went on two trips to Mexico with he and Terri and my classmates. His gift at teaching students (me) was never forgotten. His humor amazing - my friends and I still quote his jokes. My trips to Mexiinsular inspired me in a lifelong love of travel and culture.
But what was most important to me was how he personally helped me in a difficult time in my life (as a teacher and a friend). I have a few people in my life who helped shape me as a person. Tom Donato was one of them. I'm do glad I got in touch with him last year to tell him what he meant to me. Mike Nolan, JHS '82
The Killmer Family
March 31, 2012
Tom was a very funny man and always doted over our daughters. They're fondest memories of Tom were when he'd bring them green popsicles and they'd sit on the front lawn and eat them with him! Rest in peace, love, The Killmer Family
Matt
March 31, 2012
He was the kind of guy that could make you laugh at any time...although he could light a fire under your butt just as easily. His integrity, passion, and joyfulness for life were visible in every spoken word and every action. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. The Jesuit family has lost a friend..and the world has lost a molder of men...to be missed, yet never forgotten. Thank you for all that you did for us wild and crazy kids.
Joan Lieginger Hope
March 31, 2012
My heart goes out to the Donato family. He was a good friend to many. Tommy and I go back to grammar school. I am incredibly sad that he was taken from us so young. God must have needed a good man in Heaven. He gave so much to everyone and left a lasting impression on all of us. He will truly be missed.
Tim Murphy
March 31, 2012
My favorite teacher at J-High. Of the important lessons from Jesuit that have stayed with me for life, more than one came from Mr. Donato.
I will always be a loyal subject of Donatoland. Godspeed, Chico!
Tim Murphy '85
David Leatherby
March 30, 2012
Tom was my teacher, coach and good friend. Thank you, Tom, for your support and friendship. May our Good Lord embrace you in His loving arms.
Christensen Family
March 30, 2012
Our condolences go out to the Donato family. Tom was an incredible man with a bubbling personality. May god be with the family during this time.
Eleanore Nolan
March 30, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Donato family, He was loved by all of his student's. All will see him again in a very special place.RIP Tom Donato
Kathy Wood
March 30, 2012
Tom I hope you remember me. I am Jim's sister Katie. RIP TOM DONATO(CHICO)!.
Your family and friends from SMC will miss you!. So Sad you gone so young!.
David Alameida
March 30, 2012
As the leader of DONATOLAND, "Dom Tomato" made us all better people. He will be greatly missed.
Peter Arellanes
March 30, 2012
Tom Donato is, without question, my favorite teacher of all time. He conveyed a love and appreciation for Latin American and Spanish culture to us, his students in the early 80's, that should be mandatory for all high school Spanish teachers. His style literally brought the language alive for us. I carry that with me still today. I had the pleasure of going to Mexico with Tom and Terri for ten days in the summer of 1980 after my sophomore year at Jesuit. It was the trip of a lifetime and left me with a hunger for international travel that led to two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Honduras and a career in international produce. I'll never forget how Tom related so effortlessly and affably to the Mexican nationals we encountered on that trip. It was truly a life lesson for me in how to treat people. Tom was loved by his students for his unbelievable sense of humor, but I wonder how many people recognized that his true gift was his compassion. I guess it's been nearly twenty years since I last saw Tom, but to hear of his passing brings me such sadness and a profound sense of loss. I will miss him enormously. I hope we can make it to the service on Wednesday morning. We are in Bakersfield. Yours in Christ, Pete Arellanes '82 (cel. 661 809 5386)
Tom and his sisters.
Linda Donato
March 30, 2012
Tom at St. Mary's.
Linda Donato
March 30, 2012
Greg Moessinger
March 30, 2012
I am very sorry for your loss. Tom was my spanish teacher for two years at Jesuit. He nicknamed me "cacahuete " or peanut in Spanish because I was always the smallest guy on my sports teams.
I truely enjoyed Tom as a teacher. He had a wonderful sense of humor and made our class quite fun. I have some great stories to tell !
I last saw Tom at a Jesuit Football game about 8 years ago. I had my kids go up to him and ask him if he remembered a student nicknamed cacahuete. He didn't miss a beat ! He was a great teacher and a great guy.
I have great memories of Tom. My prayers to the Donato Family.
Jim Wood
March 30, 2012
Hey Roomie - save a place for me! Can't wait for another hand of cards. I will miss you terribly. My love to Terri, Alan and the family. Woody
Linda Donato
March 30, 2012
I had the best big brother in the whole world. He always watched out for me. Nobody messed with me because I was "Donato's sister." I loved him so dearly and will I will miss him every day of my life.
He was my rock.
Dave Habecker and Debbie & Jackie Habecker
March 30, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. Tom will always be remembered.
Sarah Varanini
March 30, 2012
Love to the whole family. Tommy was a great guy and brought many laughs.
Sean Scully
March 30, 2012
My heart goes out to the Donato family. I have never met or known a more genuine man that Tom Donato. Thank you for the time we all had with you, it was a gift.
March 30, 2012
Tom Donato was my Spanish Teacher as well as my JV football coach. He and Norm Ready put us in the PITS many times. My best to the Donato family. You are in our prayers. Rich and Laurie Weigel!
March 30, 2012
I first met "Tommy" when I was in my teens living across the street from the Caffreys. We did not cross paths again until my son Tyler played baseball with Alan. I spent many evenings in the bleachers with Tom analyzing the various plays. It was great fun and he had a wonderful sense of humor. He will be greatly missed. Tyler and I have his family in our thoughts and prayers.
Lynn Humphries
March 30, 2012
Dear Terri. I don't have the words to express the sorrow I feel for your loss. I was a "new" friend, but each time I saw Tom, he made me feel like we were longtime, close friends; he had such a big and welcoming heart. And, I rarely met a couple so in love and devoted to each other as you two. My sympathy, prayers and love are with you and Alan. Pat Moore
Diana Perez
March 30, 2012
My Sincere Sympathy to Mr. D's wife & son/wife. "Thank You" Mr. D for ALL you did for Jesuit & for helping my son Daniel Lopez. May Perpetual Light Shine Upon You & May You Rest In Peace. Amen.
March 30, 2012
Tom was a terrific athlete,strong as a bull,funny as can be,a terrific coach and teacher and at the same time he was a very deep thinker who loved to debate and take provocative stands. Through his Jesuit casuistry he almost had me believing I could meet hitler in heave if grace trumps karma..RIP my friend
Robert A. Gomez,Berkeley Calif
candy cox harris
March 30, 2012
Dear Mona and Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss. Tommy certainly was a very special part of many people's lives. I wish your family peace during this difficult time. We have known your family for a long time. Sincerely, Candy Cox Harris
March 30, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Donato Family. We have been friends for over 50 years and have so many memories of Tommy as a friend and neighbor.Lots of good times spent together...he was loved by all and will be greatly missed...
Barbara Wells and family(Merl,Toni,Jeff,Roger and Joseph)
Betty Scully Brown
March 30, 2012
Tom was one of my brothers best friends, part of the Rat Pack of Donato, Boyer, Sequeria, and Scully. I always looked up to him and he always had time to say hello and visit awhile. My heart goes out to all the Donato family.
Fr. Reynold Gatto,S.J.
March 30, 2012
A faithful and true friend over the years with a great sense of humor.
Masses have been said for the repose of his soul.
Larry Woodard
March 30, 2012
Tom, may your soul rest in peace in God's hands. Although I was raised in Sacred Heart's parish, we attended SMC together. My thoughts and prayers are with Terri and your family and many loving friends.
Class Reunion Sept 3, 2011
Donna Carrigg
March 30, 2012
Dear Donato Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Tommy's passing. I've known him since high school and last spoke with him at our 45th reunion in September. As always, he wore that warm and happy smile and was surrounded by his many friends who loved and admired him. Tommy always appeared to draw people to him like a magnet and be the glue that kept them all together. He will most definitely be missed by many and the difference he made in people's lives will always remain.
Sincerely,
Donna
Genna Donato
March 30, 2012
Tom, you were always there for me and my family. Making us laugh, making sure we were alright and watching over us. I will always love you and miss you greatly.
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