Gaetano "Tom" Talluto

Gaetano "Tom" Talluto, age 80, of Cadillac, Michigan, formerly of Wyandotte, passed away peacefully in his home Wednesday morning, October 22, 2025.
Tom was born on December 17, 1944, to Dionisio and Maria (Vitale) Talluto in Wyandotte, Michigan. He was a proud graduate of St. Francis Xavier School in Ecorse, Class of 1963. After high school, Tom answered the call of duty, serving his country honorably in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era from 1964 to 1968. A steadfast Catholic and proud patriot, Tom lived his life grounded in faith, service, and strong values.
He dedicated more than 35 years of his career to Wyandotte Chemical, now known as BASF, where he worked as a supervisor before retiring. After retirement, he relocated to the Cadillac area to be closer to his family-a decision that brought him immense joy. Tom was deeply committed to community service and found purpose in helping others. His community involvement sparked with joining the Wyandotte City Council, which later also encouraged him to join the DownRiver Italian American Club, where he served as a longtime member and president. He was actively involved in the Kiwanis Clubs of both Cadillac and Wyandotte, the Salvation Army, and the American Legion, the USS St. Paul Association and was a faithful member of St. Ann Catholic Church.
He found happiness in the simple things-tending to his garden, sitting on his covered porch with a hot cup of "water filtered through coffee grounds," and spending hours socializing with friends, often discussing politics or solving the world's problems. A true Sicilian at heart, Tom inherited his passion for cooking from his father and brother Marco. He loved preparing authentic meals for family and friends, filling the room with both laughter and the irresistible aroma of homemade sauce. Tom had a zest for life and loved to travel-especially to Italy to connect with his family's roots, and to Florida, where he spent many winters enjoying the sunshine and his close neighbors & comrades. He lived by the words he often repeated: "Nothing is given; everything is earned." His generosity, wisdom, and straightforward nature touched everyone who knew him. Above all, Tom cherished his family-his daughters and especially his granddaughters-who were the light of his life.
Tom is survived by his loving children, Daniella (Matthew) Bell of McBain and Antonia (Keith) Knickerbocker of Wyoming; granddaughters, Josie Talluto, Jessi Talluto, and Michayla Bell; sister, Antonietta "Dolly" Chirco of Wyandotte; beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends who were like family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dionisio and Maria Talluto; brother and sister-in-law, Marco (Theresa) Talluto; and brother-in-law, Giuseppe "Joe" Chirco.
Two opportunities for fellowship will take place. A Visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home in Cadillac. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, with a luncheon to follow at the church. A second mass will be held at 10 a.m. with a recitation of the rosary at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at St. Andre Bessette Catholic Church, 4250 W Jefferson Ave Ecorse, MI 48229. Interment with military honors will take place at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery, 18303 Allen Rd, Brownstown Township, MI 48193.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Kiwanis Club of Cadillac, PO Box 518, Cadillac, MI 49601, or to the Talluto family, to be used toward Tom's beloved non-profits.
Tom will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his humor, generosity, and unwavering love for family, faith, and country.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com.
The family is being served by Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.
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