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Thomas Testa Obituary

TESTA, THOMAS LATHAM - Thomas Joseph Testa, 57, formerly of Watervliet and Amsterdam, died Sunday, May 15, 2011 after a long battle with Multiple Myeloma with his loving family at his side. Born in Amsterdam on February 27, 1954, he is the loving son of Anthony M. and Patricia A. Doane Testa of Amsterdam. Tom was a 1972 graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch where he a was 1971 Class A all-star punter in football, which led him to Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. Tom later moved to Watervliet and was appointed to the Watervliet Fire Department in 1978. He served the city as a Firefighter-EMT for 20 years before retiring in 1998. Tom was also a skilled mechanic for Jerry Meyers Auto Service and VanVorst Auto Service both in Watervliet where he built lifelong friendships. After retiring from the fire department, Tom, along with his wife Jeanne, owned Dapp's Tavern - a Siena favorite - in Watervliet for 8 years. Tom's grandchildren were the center of his life and he was affectionately known to them as "Umpa". He loved the outdoors and cherished the time he spent in Shushan and Minerva hunting and fishing with his Uncle John. Tom also enjoyed NASCAR and at one time raced his 1964 and 1966 Stingray Coupe Corvettes at Lebanon Valley Speedway. For the past 20 years, one of Tom's favorite pass times has been taking his wife, Jeanne, on long Sunday afternoon drives. In addition to his parents, Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne K. Roberts Testa; his loving children, Janelle L. (Michael) Bulan of Wynantskill, T.J. Testa of Watervliet, WPD Patrolman Joshua R. (Shannon) Spratt of Watervliet and Marcy E. (Jake Bliss) Spratt of Lexington, KY, his adored grandchildren, Anthony, Emma, Madison, Norah, Lucille and Hannah, his sisters, Marjorie (Robert) Hoefs and Elizabeth (Joseph) Muldoon both of Amsterdam. He is survived by his uncle, John (Ruth) Doane of Watervliet, with whom he shared a brotherly bond. Tom is also survived by the best aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Tom was also so grateful for the love and support of his and Jeanne's great friends who supported him during his illness and with whom he shared so many happy times. Tom's family would especially like to thank Dr. Lawrence Garbo "The Boss" and the kind and compassionate staff of NYOH for the wonderful care given to Tom. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the Parker Bros. Memorial, 2013 Broadway, Watervliet on Wednesday from 4-7 pm followed by Memorial Service to celebrate his life at 7:00 pm with Rev. John F. Tallman officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated to the Make A Wish Foundation, 1 Mustang Drive, Cohoes, NY 12047. Condolence book and directions at www.ParkerBrosMemorial.com. Please sign the guestbook at rememberingny.us/troyrecord

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

Published by The Record from May 16 to May 17, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Testa

Not sure what to say?





Sheila A Williams

May 10, 2019

You were one great man to many and missed by all ! Rip Tommy

Debbie Morton

June 9, 2011

Tom was one in a million!
He had a gift of making everyone feel so important. He always took the time to listen and never judge. I'm so grateful to have known him, he was there through some great times and supported me through many of life's challenges as well. Tom led by example, loving to his great family and his many friends. Thank you for being such a bright light on this earth you are missed and will never be forgotten. All that had the pleasure of knowing Tom need to pay it forward and be kind to all you meet. His legacy can live forever.

Selena Dutcher

May 21, 2011

Jeanne and family:
My heart aches for you all. Tom was a great guy and the memories are too many to list! My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time!

Mark Symanski

May 19, 2011

As my friend Tom awakens and has this strange feeling no pain ,no worry and jumps up to an arriving police car. Inside is a friend Bill who says “jump in”, there’s a lot going on and you got to catch up. As they are traveling down the path a loud yell come from a man of small stature but big voice who he remembers blocking his way and Tom laughs remembering him from the past . This individual gets into a heated argument with Bill the impeccable dressed officer saying that he can't go there looking like that, so he puts him in the chair and starts giving him a haircut , saying yea I know this one won't be as crooked as my last one. Tom jumps into the chair and complies with Jimmy and laughs.
Appearing suddenly are people he hasn’t seen in years bosses, friends and family. One directing the welcoming party is this large individual wearing and Irish kilt and a grumps hat singing a tune and having a wee sip of a Dooley . In the distance there is one person standing out a that he recognizes but a friend , Bub ! . He ask Tom what's up Bub, he reply’s don't worry about anything I have it handled back there , I got connections and my friends Deb and Mark will help Jean and family to get through this . Hey, by the way did you happen to bring a pizza and wings from the Purple Pub . Haven t' had them in awhile.
At that point big Bill starts to sing a tune and they say you have a lot of company you have to catch up with. Tom looks puzzled . A lot of people now want to meet you and catch up with the news of their family and friends. Tom with a smile and grin reply s I glad I left my attitude to my friend Mark.

To my friend Tom – RIP

Sheila & Skip Williams

May 18, 2011

Jeanne, We are so sorry to hear about Tommy. He was a great person that always had a good word to say about everybody. He will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Bruce Fonda

May 18, 2011

Jeanne and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Tommy's passing...Im also sorry that I am unable to make it up for the services....Tommy was a great friend for many years and will be sorely missed... My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this sad time..

Bruce Fonda

May 18, 2011

Just heard about Tom. We had a lot of good times together while racing. He was a good friend and will be missed.

Kelly Fonda

May 18, 2011

Tommy was a great man..... I am so sorry to hear of his passing.. I will miss his kind, loving nature and wonderful smile.... My thoughts and prayers are with his family...

Pat Fonda

May 18, 2011

Jeanne I am so sorry to hear about Tommy. He was truly a good friend. He was good man always willing to help in time of need. He is in my prays and thoughts.

Chris and Kristin (Fonda)Lee

May 18, 2011

TJ, Janelle and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Tommy was a great man and will be missed by many. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Becky Rossa

May 18, 2011

I'm so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I loved him very much. He was a wonderful man.

John Doane Jr.

May 18, 2011

Aunt Pat/ Uncle Tony-& all Amsterdam extended family- Jean, T.J., Janelle & all Watervliet extended family:

I offer my deepest condolences. Tom who was my cousin but always considered as uncle Tom was always an idol of mine. I can remember going to his high school football games and wishing i could be like him. Because of him i played sports and strived to be just like him. The 30 + years of hunting together will never be forgotten. Although our hunting partner has left i'm sure we'll meet again only to hunt again. You will be deeply missed Uncle Tom!! Good bye for now.

Marie Ward

May 18, 2011

Jeanne&Family,
We were so saddened to hear about your loss, what a warm and wonderful man Tom was. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family.

May 18, 2011

Dear Jeanne and family,

Greg and I send our most sincere sympathy to all of you. We will always remember Tom's wonderful smile. He surely was a kind and gentle man!

Fondly,
Diane Rentz

Deb Doakmajian

May 18, 2011

Janelle and Family,
Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. When we lose someone we love, it seems that time stands still. He will always be here with you.
You have our sincere condolences.

Your in our thoughts and prayers,

Deb Doakmajian & Family
and all your friends at Wine-Skill Wines & Spirits

May 18, 2011

Jeanne and Family, We are so sorry to hear about your loss of Tom. You are such a wonderful and loving family and may your hearts be filled with wonderful memories and thoughts of a loving life together! Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Debi (Wingate) & Ross Clark (Canandaigua, NY)

Stacey Richards

May 18, 2011

Jeanne & Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Tom's passing. He was a great friend and I'll always remember the good times and conversations. My prayers are with you all!

Barbara Knapp

May 17, 2011

Jeanne & family,
I was so saddened to see that Tom lost his valiant battle against this rotten disease. He never complained and always had a smile for all who cared for him. It was an honor to have known him. You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved Tom.
Barb Knapp (former nurse mgr - NYOH).

Mary Beth and Matt Webster

May 17, 2011

Jeanne~
May the love of your friends and family carry you through this difficult time. Tom has touched so many people. I will always cherish the laughs/times that we spent at Dapp's

Miguel Delossantos

May 17, 2011

Jeanne, Marcy, Josh ,and TJ I am so sorry for your loss. I heard the news yesterday and was very saddened by this. Your Dad/Husband was a great man and one who I can always count on to make me laugh. I will never forget about all of the great times we had at Dapps! My thoughts and prayers go out to your Family at this time

Michael OConnell

May 17, 2011

TJ, Janelle, Jeanne and everyone tom touched...Me and Sandy cant express how deeply sorry we are, we will pray for all of you

May 17, 2011

TJ, I'm so sorry about your loss and Knowing that he was such a inspiration to you...He would have been proud that his son will carry on and make the best of his memories..H.Dave Fitch

May 17, 2011

Jeanne & Family:
We are saddened by your loss of Tom. He was a terrific guy, a great neighbor, and a joy to talk to. Our prayers are with you.

Joe and Paula Picchi

Jennifer Kutey

May 17, 2011

TJ, Josh, Marcy and fam-
So so sorry to hear about ur dad! I saw him right before xmas and he was as vivacious as ever!! Crazy how life changes on a dime! Remember all the smiles! Thinking of you all during this difficult time! Xoxxo jenn kutey

May 17, 2011

Jeanne, I am so sorry. My heart goes out to you.
Peggy

May 17, 2011

Jeanne & Family-Our condolences to you.We are deeply saddend on learning that Tom lost his valiant fight. He was a great neighbor.
Eva & Bruno Strini

May 17, 2011

Margie & Jeanne,
I am so sorry to hear about Tom. We will miss his smiling face at NYOH. He was a fighter and a wonderful person. We always talked about you Margie and the good old days in Amsterdam. I know you will miss him, but keep your memories close to your heart. Your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.
~ Kathy Deal

Paul Richter, ret nysp/grump

May 17, 2011

Jeanne, I extend my sincere condolences to you and your family. Tom was always so helpful when you guys hosted the Grumps at Dapps. Tom was a gentleman, a man's man.. May the memories of all the good times you had with Tom help to ease the pain you feel at this time. Remember the Sunday rides with Tom.!!!! God bless.

Barrett Rowse

May 17, 2011

You will be missed Tom. I never met a kinder, more considerate man. Christine and I will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Sue Munks

May 17, 2011

Jeanne, I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was such a great guy and was so good to me after Bill passed away. I miss the days/nights at Dapp's but will never forget all of the wonderful memories that I have with the two of you. I miss you! Love Sue

sue cromie

May 17, 2011

Beth,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you

May 17, 2011

Janelle,.....My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He was such a kind and wonderful person! - Emily Harrison (Scotia, NY)

Barbara & Jason Baker

May 17, 2011

Jeanne- Words can't express the sorrow we feel for you and your family-He was such a great guy! We're thinking of you and send our love!

Kimberly (Hyjek) Shaw

May 17, 2011

Janelle
Honey I am so sorry for your loss for you and your family. Please know if there is anything you need do not hesitate to call me 518-229-5101

Amy Hartman

May 17, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss, Tom was a great man. He will sure be missed!! I love you all, If there is anything I can do... God Bless The Hartman's

Evelyn Schultz

May 17, 2011

Jeanne, I am so sorry to read of Tom's passing. I will always be grateful for the kindness and concern Tom showed towards my parents. He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you go through this very difficult time. If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. God Bless you and your entire family.

GARY VERTUCCI

May 17, 2011

WE ARE TRULY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSSHE WILL BE SADLY MISSES LOVE GARY, DEBBIE SPRUNG, JIM SPRUNG, JESSICA BRONSON (GARY VERTUCCI FIANCEE ) BRANDON VERTUCCI, LISA SPONAAS JASON SPONAAS (HUSBAND OF LISA SPOAAS)

GARY VERTUCCI

May 17, 2011

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST.....

The Staff of Parker Bros. Memorial Funeral Home

May 17, 2011

Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.

Melissa Hoefer

May 16, 2011

T.J. and family,
I am sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Tracy Van Vorst Lapeyrouse

May 16, 2011

See you in heaven, my friend.

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