Thomas F. Skrutski, 71, of Rochester had wonderful riding weather for his passing to Harley Heaven on Tuesday, July 8, 2014, surrounded by his family after his third and final courageous battle with cancer. Born in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Betty June Reynolds.
Thomas’ employment included working on the oil barges and cross-country truck driving for AFC. Thomas was the founder of Tootle Chimney Sweeps, Center Village and most recently a co-founder of The Bonney House in Rochester. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Rochester. He served in the United States Army as a Heavy Weapons Infantryman, 101st Airborne and was a proud Vietnam Veteran. He also served as a Merchant Marine in Desert Storm.
Thomas’ greatest loves were his family, riding his Harley and creating new business ventures. He once embarked on a 27-day cross-country journey on his motorcycle to benefit cancer.
Survivors include 4 daughters: Dani Sue Gladson and her husband, Jeff, of Wyoming, MI; Kerri Sousa and her husband, Leo, of Fall River; Roselie Beland and her husband, Joel, of Fairhaven; and Heather Melo and her husband, Herman, of Fairhaven; 2 step-children: Jessica Taylor and Adam Cecil, both of Rochester; his former wife: Marjorie of Rochester; a very special friend Polly Church of Rochester; a brother: Jeffrey “Buford” Armes of New Bedford; 3 sisters: Marguerite Cleland of Florida, Sandra Armes of Michigan and Michelle Gilliam of New York state; 11 grandchildren; a great-grandson; and many nieces & nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 2:00 P.M., Sunday, July 20, 2014 at the First Congregational Church of Rochester, 11 Constitution Way, Rochester.
Reception to follow.
I am so sorry to learn about Tommy’s death. Being so far away, NC, and out of touch with my mother’s side of the family it is with a heavy heart that I find out of his passing. My heartfelt sympathy to the family.