Thomas A. Grates, V

       Thomas A. Grates, V, 56, of Tarentum, passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024 at Allegheny Valley Hospital, Natrona Heights. He was born October 27, 1967 in Harrison Township, son of Lila (Thomas) Grates, of Brackenridge and Thomas A. Grates, IV and companion Robin, of New Kensington. Thomas lived most of his life in Tarentum and was a Project Manager for Residential Resources, Pgh. for over 20 years. Thomas was a veteran of the US Army and a 1985 graduate of Highlands High School. He also was a 1988 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Business Management. Thomas was a member of Mason Lodge 657 in Avalon, Shriner’s, Tarentum Elks, Natrona Heights VFW, Brackenridge American Legion and Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. Thomas enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking and kayaking. He was the founder of Ride for Homeless Vets, charity event, and enjoyed motorcycles and his camp in Tionesta.

            Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Tracy L. (Smith) Grates; his children Thomas A. Grates, VI, of Columbus, OH, Alexis A. (Matthew) Kwalick, of Kennedy Twp. and John A. Hutchens, of Tarentum and his pet labs Odin and Freya. Also surviving are his sisters, Tracy L. (William) Gustafson, of Natrona Heights and Sandy Medred, of Kiski Twp.

            Visitation Thursday  from 2-4 & 6-8 PM in Duster Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. 347 E 10th Ave, Tarentum, 724-224-1526 and Friday from 10 am until the time of service at 12 noon with Rev. Howard L. Crawford, of Town line Free Methodist Church, Tionesta, officiating. Avalon Masonic Lodge 657 F&AM will hold services in the Funeral home at 7PM Thursday. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to the Shriner’s organization or Ride For Homeless Vets. Burial will be private. VISIT: dusterfh.com