Thomas M. Decker

1962 - 2024

Thomas M. Decker, 62, a beloved son, husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away in the comfort of his home on December 25, 2024.

Born on May 1, 1962, in Utica, New York, he was the son of Bernard and Jeanette (Klockowski) Decker. Tom was united in marriage to Grace Trozzi in 1999.

He attended SUNY IT and was a graduate of Mohawk Valley Community College. Tom was employed at Vick's Lithograph for many years as a Traffic Manager and Purchaser, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.

A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tom was never far from a game. His greatest passion, however, was his family and his love for kids. He adored spending time with his nieces and nephews, and his warm spirit and great sense of humor made him a favorite among everyone who knew him. A master of one-liners and blessed with a laugh that was truly contagious, Tom had a gift for making those around him smile.

Whether it was whipping up his famous chicken riggies, tending to his garden, or planning trips to New York City and Florida, Tom found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was easy-going, always willing to lend a helping hand, and had an uncanny ability to get a reservation at even the busiest restaurants in Utica. His charm drew people to him, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom is survived by his mother, Jeanette Decker; wife, Grace Decker; siblings, Susan (Don "Syno") Synakowski, Margaret (Herb) Donovan, Patricia (Larry) Bakos, Bernard (Anita) Decker, James (Kelly North) Decker; nieces and nephews, Matthew Synakowski, Alison Synakowski, Andrew Donovan, Katelyn Olney, Brian Decker, Natalie Decker, Tyler Decker (Godson), Savannah Decker, Katrina Griffith, Kristina Trociuk, Grace Sotire, Angela Trozzi; several great nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law, Arthur (Kathy) Trozzi, Jr., Carl (Ann Grates) Trozzi, Mario (Kim) Trozzi; and many, many friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Bernard Decker; his in-laws, Arthur Sr. and Ann Trozzi; and sister-in-law, Sandra Trozzi. May Tom rest in eternal peace with them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 12:00 Noon at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus. Private entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery & Mausoleum, Utica.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Tom's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the Mass.

Arrangements are under the direction of McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Road, Utica.

Messages of sympathy at mmknfd.com.