1946
2021
Thomas DiLallo
January 18, 1946 - September 16, 2021
Sacramento, California -
Tom DiLallo D.D.S., passed away on September 16, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was born in New Jersey. Tom was a Captain in the Air Force stationed in Japan. His passions were his family and his grandsons. In addition to his love of being a grandfather, Tom was an accomplished guitar player, an avid fisherman and became fluent in Italian in his adult years. He was able to practice it regularly during his many trips to Italy.
His is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Katie (Doug) Conklyn, son Michael (Laura Hargrove), and his grandsons Kai and River. He also leaves behind his sister, Darlene and his mother, Caroline. The family will have a private memorial for him at a later date. Please sign the guestbook at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sacramento-ca/nicoletti-culjis-herberger-funeral-home/7043.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
My husband served as a dentist with Tom in Wakkanai and we recently thought about him and learned sadly that he had passed. He was a delight with a wonderful sense of humor. We still, this many years later, laugh about some of his comments.
Nan Wachen
March 17, 2023
Dear Karen,
We have never met, but for four years I considered Tom one of my best friends. I was the drummer in that incredible band (you must have heard of us!!) The Royal Tones. Without that band, my high school years would have been uneventful. And without Tom, my life at that time would have had little meaning. He brought joy and laughter into my life. For that I am forever grateful. There is nothing I can say that will lessen the pain or dry the tears or reduce the anguish and heartache. Please know that I will be praying for you and your family at this most difficult time. Tom doesn't need my prayers; he's already in the palm of our Lord. If you want to, please reach out [email protected]. Rest in peace, Xylo.
Charley Dunn
Friend
October 19, 2021
DAVID KNEPSHIELD
October 11, 2021
I first met Tom at the Mather Dental Clinic when he mustered in after his year and half as dental commander in Japan. I vividly remember the moment, because I instantly liked him. We became great friends during our last six months as dental officers in the AF. We invited Tom to many of our family gatherings, and we considered him a family member.
When we separated from active duty in July 1972, we both accepted a position as dentists in a new health care facility ( which included dentistry) in Los Angeles. The facility we were joining was so new (from the newly passed HMO Act), they didn't even have any patients yet. After a few months, we realized we had to make a change, as our payroll checks were bouncing. We didn't want to stay in LA to practice dentistry. So, we rented a U-haul truck, packed all our stuff plus Tom's stuff, in the truck and headed back to Sacramento. Tom and I bought a dental practice together. We worked as a partnership for 25 years, until 1997. During that time we remained close friends, and always enjoyed a Christmas evening every year with our two families together. Tom was one of the most honest, conscientious, caring dentists and persons I have ever known. He is the primary reason I was successful as a dentist. In 1997, we had to separate our business, as I developed arthritis in my hands and could not continue. We still remained good friends, but didn't see each other so much as before. We went through so much together, including a trip to the Soviet Union in 1987. He was like a brother I never had.
I was so sad to receive his e-mail saying he was in the hospital. I talked to him a couple times; he was so tired. Our whole family was so sad to hear of his passing. I can't believe he's gone. I think of him many times every day. I will miss him very much. Spiritually, I believe he is in a good place, fishing every day and talking to the fish in Italian. We have all suffered a major loss. Happy fishing, Tom.
Your friend and partner,
Dave Knepshield
H David Knepshield
Friend
October 11, 2021
Tommaso, sono dispiaciuto di averti perso qui in terra, ma sono contento di averti conosciuto, sono sicuro che sei in paradiso. Ciao.
Michele Quaranta
Friend
October 2, 2021
I met dear Tom at a language school in Taormina, Sicily about 9 years ago and we became instant friends. He was there with his friend Karen Morelli-Zimmerman, and I with a friend Krista, and we all hung out for the entire 2 weeks, creating enduring friendships for all of us. Then, about 2 years later, I had the joy of meeting he and his beautiful daughter Katie in Rome for a week.
We never managed to meet up again but I would often call him when I was travelling and we´ve enjoyed many long conversations keeping up with each other´s life from opposite sides of the world. I am so immensely grateful that I spoke with Tom recently and treasure those last shared moments.
My heart goes out to Tom´s family for I know how much they all loved him and how much they will miss him - as will I
Rest In Peace Tom
Rhonda James, Australia
September 27, 2021
My condolences to Karen and family. Tom was a pillar of our Italian speaking group for the 19 years I knew him. He spoke beautifully and naturally. He was a kind, gentle man with a good sense of humor and very thoughtful. We met up in Rome in 2009 and went to dinner at the home of Italian friends of mine. We went to some Kings games together. I will miss the many conversations we had over the years. Tom was wise. One of the nicest most genuine people I have ever known, and it was a privilege to have known Tom.
Mark Regalbuti
Friend
September 26, 2021
Remembering family vacations at Almanor, the kids singing "Fried ham" with Tom, and his sense of humor. So happy that our first Italian vacation lead to an opportunity for Tom to explore his heritage. Tom will always hold a place in our hearts. Much love and support for Karen and family.
Bob and Lori
Friend
September 26, 2021
Patty and I offer our condolences to family and friends of Tom. He was a great man and friend for many years.
ANTHONY DESTEFANO
Friend
September 23, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Tommy and I was shocked to hear. I am thinking of his family.
JANE TIERNAN
September 22, 2021
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