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Thomas Tornatore Obituary

Thomas J. Tornatore, 61 of Lakeside California peacefully passed away November 30, 2025 surrounded by his loving California family (Jimmy, Sharon, Darcy and Haley) by his side. Tom's passion in life was the love of Professionally training and showing horses, where he was awarded the Golden Rein Award through the Morgan Horse Association. He loved any animal that crossed his path. Going to his home was like visiting Doctor Doolittles Farm. He especially loved his trips back home to Saint Marys to spend time with his family and meet all the new additions. He will be missed for his love of family, his quick wit, his big heartfelt hugs, his beautiful smile and kindness to whom ever he met. He will be deeply missed.
Tom is survived by his father Robert (Lola) Tornatore Sr., his brother Robert Tornatore Jr., his six sisters, Susan Strandberg, Josie (Gary) Hill, Sheryl Tornatore Smith, Katie Tornatore, Lorie (Chip) (Chris) Hayes, Lisa (Bob) Merat. His special longtime friend Jimmy Napora. Many nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his mother Lillie Tornatore, nephew Jesse Denio, grandparents Maximo and Bernice Tornatore, Arthur and Violet Winters. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Press from Dec. 2 to Dec. 3, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Tornatore

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Julie A. Calleja

December 26, 2025

Tom will always be in my memory especially when I get up on a horse, the first person to train me to ride a horse, Sparkles, and the fun times we had a a group was always a new excitement with Tom around. You live in everyone's heart and there is never a memory escape from any of those hearts.

Memorial Tree

Julie A. Calleja

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Brian Erkes

December 9, 2025

I'm so saddened by Tom's passing. Tom befriended my daughter and opened up his home and farm to her at at time of great grief for my family. I only met him a couple times, but I could tell right away what an amazing and wonderful person he was. I always remember his friendship towards me and my daughter and how comforting it was to me as a father that he was in San Diego with her close by, looking out for her and making sure she knew she could visit the farm anytime. *Thank you Tom, you will be missed!

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Brain Erkes

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Christine Cassidy

December 7, 2025

I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing and want to offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

I met Tom back in the mid 1980s when he was showing Morgan horses in Pennsylvania. We stayed in touch through the years and he reached out to me when my mother passed away last January to offer his heartfelt condolences. He knew my mother, but he also personally knew how hard it was to lose a mother you were very close with. That was his way always...a true gentleman who truly cared about other people and animals. May he rest in eternal peace.

Nancy Grotzinger Troyan

December 6, 2025

I did not get the pleasure of meeting Thomas. I am an old babysitter from Center St and watched Bobbie, Susie, and Josie (actually the day she came home from being born). I Mom, Dad, and these kids!!!! I am very sorry for your loss. And also to learn of loss of your Mom. I will pray for all of you for peace. God bless all of you. An old, old babysitter, your friend, Nancy Grotzinger (Ed Grotzinger the photographers 2nd oldest daughter)

Cindy OLeary

December 4, 2025

Sheryl and family.
My deepest condolences in the passing of Thomas.

Larry and K8 Nekuza Bradenton, Florida

December 3, 2025

Dear Tornatore Family, Sincere condolences on the loss of Tommy. Wonderful youngster and the life of the classroom,( in a positive way) .. Hold onto all the adventures he shared with you all
Teacherlove Larry, K8 and Tim Nekuza

Holly Janvrin / Heidi Cronin

December 3, 2025

Prayers and thoughts to his family and friends. He was a one of a kind gentleman. Loved seeing him at shows.

Pete and Joan (Gregory) DePrater and family

December 3, 2025

So sorry to hear of Tom's passing.
We will keep him and all the family in our prayers.
Joan

Kari Johnston

December 3, 2025

Adding my name to the growing list of friends who loved Tom so very much. I was planning to visit on my next trip to Southern California...I´m still going but one person will be missing now. My heart goes out to all of you who stayed by his side during his transition to a heavenly being...and his Mama is holding him close now. And to those like me who missed the chance to hold him close one last time here while he was still with us. Tom, I loved and admired you always...and I will always miss you until we meet again at Heavens gate. You´re safe now my dear friend. Your memories are held by the ones you left behind. In Jesus´ name I pray for your safekeeping with Lil. Godspeed.

Glenn Caruso

December 3, 2025

My sincere condolences to the entire family. I´m sure he will be missed by all.

Single Memorial Tree

Marshall & Bobbi Ouimette

Planted Trees

Belinda Ilgen

December 2, 2025

Your sisters sure loved you. Praying for God's comfort during this time of loosing their brother. I know your sister Katie was extremely proud of you and loved you. Rest now in God's arms.

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results

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