WATERTOWN, NY — Thomas P. Costanzo, 79, a cherished resident of Watertown, NY, passed away on Dec. 19, 2023, at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse surrounded by his family. Thomas had an unheard-of strength, and a will to live like no other.
He was born on July 12, 1944, in Watertown, NY, son of Peter and Rose (Monaco) Costanzo.
Thomas graduated from Immaculate Heart Academy in 1963 and attended Jefferson Community College.
On Sept. 6, 1969, he married Lynn Adams of Black River at Holy Family Church. The couple resided in Watertown before spending 17 years in Black River and later moving back to Watertown in 1986.
Following school, Tom worked part-time at Pete’s Restaurant on Factory Street, which he took over in 1974 after his father’s passing. In 1985, the restaurant relocated to Breen Avenue, and Thomas continued to own and operate it until its sale in 2012. Pete’s was a place where family, and the family he called friends, gathered throughout the years. The laughs and fond memories people have of Tom sitting at his favorite seat at the end of the bar will be treasured by many.
Thomas also played in two popular local bands in the 1960s including, Ed Wool and the Nomads and The South Shore Road Band, playing the trumpet, guitar, harmonica, and lending his vocals. He was very proud to tell others the story of opening up for The Rolling Stones before taking over the family restaurant business. There was always music, usually the Beatles, playing when Tom was around.
To others Thomas can be described as generous, kind, quick-witted, funny and maybe his favorite, a true rockstar. Thomas is known for countless acts of kindness and selflessness with both the hundreds of people he has employed over the years, and others in our community including the Police Department, hospitals, and even complete strangers. He loved to give and it was his way of showing he cared. There isn’t a person who knew Tom who doesn’t have a story to share as proof of his generosity or kindness. Tom had a “friends are the family you choose” philosophy and he treasured those relationships throughout the years. His family is so grateful for his Tuesday morning breakfast club.
Most important to Thomas was his family. He treasured his wife Lynn who has been the current rockstar of the family as his wife and caregiver. Even better to Tom than being called a rockstar was being called grandpa. His greatest joy was to be surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He was so proud of each one and he fought time after time to live just to be a part of their lives. You would often find Tom bringing the grandkids out to eat, and attending as many of their sporting events as possible.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lynn, and their four children, Jessica (Craig) Conroy, Calgary, Alberta, Tommy Jr. (Lena) Costanzo, Windermere, FL, Gina (Corey) Reid, Adams Center, Jenna (Chad) Johnson, Watertown; 10 grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, Taylor, Sophia, Sydney, Jor-el, Anabella, Natalia, Camilla, Macksen, Dylan, Tyler, Seth, and Lola.
He was predeceased by both of his parents.
Arrangements are with the Hart and Bruce Funeral Home.
Calling hours will be held 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 23, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Watertown, with the funeral Mass following immediately at noon.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, 204 Iroquois Ave., Watertown, NY 13601.
Online condolences can be shared at hartandbrucefh.com