Thomas Gray (Graczyk)

Thomas Theodore Gray (Graczyk) Jr. ‘Tom’

Thomas Theodore Gray (Graczyk) Jr., age 89, passed away Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at Pleasant Ridge Manor from complications related to Covid-19.

He was born in Erie on June 12, 1934, the son of the late Thomas and Anastasia (Sajewski) Graczyk.

Tom was a 1952 graduate of Cathedral Prep and attended Gannon University participating in the ROTC program. Tom met the love of his life, Patricia Ann Przepierski and married on July 21, 1956. He then joined the United States Air Force, eventually returning to Erie completing his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering.

He explored various career paths over the years using his talents in design, architecture, engineering, and construction. He worked for Corning Glass Company, various architectural design firms, and started his own businesses. He was especially proud of his accomplishments while working for San-Ray Corporation and Travaglini Enterprises in Meadville, PA. This included designing, constructing, and operating regional Holiday Inn hotels and restaurants such as Sandalini’s, later known as Chovy’s Italian Casual. Tom always said this was the best job he ever had and cherished his friendships with his colleagues.

Tom enjoyed collecting comic memorabilia, stamps, WWII collectables and had a love for architecture, aviation and classic cars. Tom adored his constant companion Molly, his collie. He enjoyed traveling the world with his wife, dining out, and visiting casinos. He also loved creating memories at his farm exploring the property, riding tractors, and cooking out with his children and grandchildren. He will always be remembered for his contagious smile, kindness, generosity, and going above and beyond supporting his family when needed. He leaves a legacy of love and inspiration in all our hearts and will be greatly missed.

Besides his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan M. Gray and a daughter-in-law Ruth M. Gray.

Tom is survived by his wife of 67 years, Patricia Przepierski Gray and his children; Thomas Gray, Carolyn Colicchio, and James Gray. He is the father-in-law of Tina Gray, Laurie Gray, and John Colicchio and the proud grandfather of Andrew Gray (Rachel), Daniel Gray (Lisa), Julian Colicchio, Maggie Colicchio, Collette Gordon, and Christian Gordon. Also surviving are 2 great-grandchildren, Odric Gray and Eden Gray.

Tom’s family would like to thank the staff at Pleasant Ridge Manor – Unit H for their care and concern for Tom, especially Shawna Dickson, Camantha Eaton, Debbie Bish, Dawn Alpaugh, Debbie Patterson, Alicia Ash, and Heather Schlosser. We are forever grateful to all of you!

Friends are invited to call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, Downtown, 602 W.10th St. on Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 10:00 am until Prayers at 11:30 am followed by a Funeral Mass at 12 noon in St. Patrick Catholic Church. Entombment will be in Calvary mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Pleasant Ridge Manor Patient Activities Fund., 8300 West Ridge Rd. Fairview, PA 16415.

Send condolences to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com.