Thomas Grachek
July 30, 1948 ~ December 21, 2013
Resided in:
Pueblo West, CO
Thomas 'Tom' Grachek, 65, of Pueblo West, Colo., passed away Dec. 21, 2013, after a long battle with brain cancer. Tom was born in Fremont, Ohio on July 30, 1948, to Bernard and Marjorie Grachek. He was of Catholic faith and very devoted to God. Tom graduated from Central Catholic High School and earned a Bachelor of Business Degree from the University of Toledo in 1970. He was currently employed at Trane, retired from Johns Mansville, Waterville, Ohio, after 19 years. While in the military he saw action in Thailand and was stationed at the Pueblo Army Depot. Tom loved to spend time riding, roping and training his horses and was a member of Pueblo West Horseman's Association and also of the Eagles #145. He was always willing to help friends and family with anything they needed. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Survived by his wife, Karen (Rihacek); children, JoAnna Grachek and Gwen (Jeremy) Chapman; grandchildren, Luke, Liam and Claire; sisters, Vikki (Phil) Cox and Margie (Bob) Munson; brothers, Ted and John (Eva); as well as many extended relatives and dear friends. Preceded in death by his parents. Interment, 10:15 a.m. Friday, Fort Logan National Cemetery. Memorial Mass, 10 a.m. Sat., Dec. 28, at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 414 W. 11th Street. In lieu of food and flowers, memorials may be made to Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio or Sangre de Cristo Hospice through Montgomery & Steward Funeral Directors, 1317 N. Main St., Pueblo, CO 81003. Online condolences, www.montgomerysteward.com
Happy memories of some wonderful time spent with Tom in September 2012. A lovely guy! Condolences to Karen and family
Tom was my supervisor at plant 7 for many years until he moved out west. I will always remember Tom put one of his long legs on a guardrail and say “Hey pal!” Or “Let me tell you something pal!” Tom was a great mentor to me and a great man. May he rest in peace and The Grachek family be at peace.
Brad Heft, JM plant 7
Karen, So saddened to hear about Tom. Such a loss for you and your family. We pray that the love of family and friends will help to comfort you at this time.
Karen, I`m so sorry for you and the family. I worked with Tom for many years at JM. Always had a smile and a good word for everyone. He will be missed.
Karen, so sorry to hear about Tom. We had a great conversation a few years ago at David’s funeral. Tom was a great man and a part of my life for over 50 years. He always called my mom “mom”. He will be missed. My prayers are with you and his family. Joan Soboleski
I feel so sad to hear this news. Tom was very dear to me. He stood with me during some difficult times and I counted him my friend even as he was a true friend to my husband. He stands in God’s presence now and I know I will see him again. Karen and girls, I pray God will comfort you as only He can.
So very sorry to hear about Tom. He was my brother’s best childhood friend and they are together now. My deepest sympathies Karen to your family.
My deepest sorrow to the family for your loss, during this most difficult, may you always remember that soon, all suffering and death will be no more – Revelation 21:3, 4.
Karen, Gwen and JoAnna, We grieve along with you in the loss of your husband, friend, father and Godly man. Know that we are here for you for anything great or small. We love you, The Salisburys
Dear Karen, Gwen, JoAnna, and family:
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you all a big hug!
Mary Ann
Classic Corner
Karen, JoAnna and Gwen, While we all knew Tom was nearing the end, the final news is so very difficult and I know how you and your entire family are feeling a deep sense of loss. Tom was at the top of the list of the finest men I have ever known and he will always have a special place in my memories. I hope you find a strong sense of peace through his legacy of kindness, faith and love of his family and the Lord God Almighty. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you walk through this difficult time and we hope you will feel free to call on us at any time.
Dear Karen, Gwen, JoAnna, and family,
I am sending you my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With my deepest sympathy,
Paula Maier
Karen, Gwen and JoAnna, We grieve along with you in the loss of your husband, father, and friend . Tom was a amazing man of God, he always had a kind word for others, I know he Loved all of you. I will miss my good friend.
Tony and Shirley Breedlove
Karen & family, I am so sorry to hear about Tom. I worked at the Catholic credit union in Toledo with you Karen and I loved to hear you talk about your family. I’m glad you wound up in the beautiful west and although I wish you had spent many more happy years together, I know your family will help you through this hard time. Know that you &your family are in my thoughts & prayers. Randi Monaghan
Karen, Gwen & Joanna,
We are sorry the news about Tom. I work at JM with Tom over 20 years ago and really felt he was a great individual. Our prays go out to all of you
Karen, Gwen & Joanna,
What a wonderful Christmas Tom gets to experience this year. In the short time I knew Tom he truly touched my heart. He always had a story to tell me about you girls, he was a proud Dad and I know he loved you all very much by the look in his eyes when he talked about you. My love and prayers are with you.
Elsa Leon
Ted, John, Vikki and Margie, I only met Tom on a few occasions. But know he was a good man. You are all in my prayers.
Karen, I was so sorry to hear about Tom. He was a great guy and will be missed. My thoughts are with you. Mary Belle Manley
I just saw the news I was hoping not to see. Tom fought a valiant fight for a long time. He leaves behind a great family and some memories with close friends that will stay with me the rest of my life. Love you buddy. Pat Joyce
Tom and I were fraternity brothers at UT and good friends. My condolences to his family.
Tom was undoubtedly one of the most loving, thoughtful and caring among our generation of family (16 first cousins in all).
Devoted to his family and to our Maker; Tom now leads us to our eternal reward.
Mike and Linda