Tom (Gaeton) F. Spera May 22, 1950 - April 18, 2020

Tom (Gaeton) Spera of Wilmington Delaware formerly of Westville NJ Passed away April 18, 2020 at the age of 69. Tom was born in South Philly May 22, 1950, although his Mother claimed it was May 23rd, so Tom celebrated his birthday on the 22nd and the 23rd.

The family moved to Westville, NJ as a child and resided in the area for most of his life. Tom made many lifelong friends there. He did move to Fort Myers, FL for an 11 year period but returned to the tri-state area in 2016 and resided in Wilmington, Delaware.

Tom was the last surviving member of his immediate family and sorely missed his Father, Mother and brothers Joe and Steve. Tom loved to talk about the Triangle Luncheonette, a business owned by his Dad and where the whole family worked in some capacity. It was a neighborhood gathering spot by young and old alike and Tom truly enjoyed the memories of working there and the camaraderie of the neighborhood.

Tom was in the original graduating class from Gatewood High and attended the 50 year reunion last year. Tom played football there and was on the wrestling team and he said he was quite the wrestler.
Tom loved thrift store bargains. Last year he bought a suit for $6.00 and paid $120.00 to have it altered. He enjoyed a good meal, especially dessert , homemade chocolate cake with mounds of frosting and of course he enjoyed "a "cocktail.

Nothing made Tom happier than being with his family, and was graciously invited to family gatherings and he absolutely looked forward to these occasions. Tom loved kids and they liked him.

He was an avid gardener and recently transformed the garden at his home. He did have an obsession with grass, grass seed, fertilizing it and weeding it. A bald patch in the yard would haunt him.
Tom liked to drive fast, much to the chagrin of the occupants of the vehicle. We were as scared as he was thrilled.

Tom loved being in the "spotlight", telling stories and jokes. He also considered himself a great dancer and in his younger years he claimed to be able to carry a tune.

Tom was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 13. He was a boilermaker and later a business agent for Local 13 until he retired. Tom guided several young men into the profession.

Tom enjoyed traveling. Over the years he visited several Caribbean Islands, Mexico, Netherland Antilles, Yosemite, Sequioa and Utah National Parks, but the highlight of his travels was Italy. He went with his cousins and his family that was everything to him. Tom was a very proud Italian.

Tom is survived by his wife Jean, his Aunt Lore and many nephews, nieces, cousins and extended family and friends.

Tom believed in Human Rights for All. He was interested in understanding quantum physics and string theory and now that he is out in the universe, that knowledge will be his along with all the love being sent to him. He was well loved.

Tom's Memorial Service will be announced at a later date.

Memories and condolences may be shared @www.ellisstiefelfuneralhome.com