Thomas Joseph Chirico

Thomas Joseph Chirico, "Doc C," 66, of Hazleton died Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp.

He was the son of the late Carmen A. Chirico and Jeanne Yamulla Chirico. Throughout the years he served as both a teacher and later, an administrator in the Hazleton Area School District. He was equally involved between the career center and high school.

He was a graduate from Hazleton High School and Penn State University. Outside of work, Tom was member of the Hazleton BPOE Elks. In addition, he was also involved in the running and grounds keeping with Hazleton Little League and American Legion Baseball.

He was an avid golfer and bowler. He was immensely proud of his two children and supported Amy with her collegiate bowling and TJ with his love for baseball.

He was preceded in death by both his parents; and uncle, Phil Domin; and aunt, Irene Domin.

He is survived by his children, Amy Elizabeth Chirico, Nanticoke; and Thomas Joseph Chirico II, along with Kaitlyn Jo (Donovan), Drums; and his precious new granddaughter, Jessa Jo Chirico; along with several nieces and nephews.

He also left behind his beloved service dog, Marshy. Marshy and Tom were the definition of a package deal. You never saw Tom without her and they were extremely bonded to one another.

"Look at the stars. The great kings of our past look down on us from those stars. So, whenever you feel alone, just remember those kings will be there to guide you. And so, will I." – Mufasa.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to either North Warren Animal Hospital at 908-224-0416 or online at northwarrenanimalhospital.com or The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society at www.lls.org.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Frank J. Bonin Funeral Home Inc., Hazleton.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday in Calvary Cemetery, Drums. All are welcome to attend though the family would ask that anyone paying respect observe social distancing and wear masks.