Thomas C. Rakowski

Thomas C. Rakowski, 70, of Cheswick, passed away Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, in UPMC Shady Side, Pittsburgh. He was born July 9, 1942, in Pittsburgh, to the late Charles and Wilhelmina Simoncic Rakowski and has been a lifelong resident of the Valley. He graduated from Connelly Vocational School in Pittsburgh and owned and operated his machine, welding and fabricating shop. Mr. Rakowski truly loved machining. He also enjoyed playing basketball, hunting, bicycling, remodeling, watching CNBCs Jim Cramer's "Mad Money" program and was a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan. However, Thomas especially loved being with his family and grandchildren. Survivors include his loving wife of 48 years, Frances Czoper Rakowski; daughters, Denise Wolfe, of Springdale, Michelle (Phillip) Moretti, of O'Hara Township, and Charlene Rakowski, of Cheswick; two grandchildren, Danielle and Marissa Moretti; and his faithful pet friend, Bella. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Friends will be received from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in THE CHARLES B. JARVIE FUNERAL HOME INC., 1607 Pittsburgh St., Cheswick. A Christian Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday in St. Alphonsus Church with burial to follow in Deer Creek Cemetery, Harmar. http://www.jarviefuneralhome.com.