Thomas F. Vassallo

Thomas Francis Vassallo, age 65, of North Haledon, NJ, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Born in Paterson and raised in Wayne, NJ, Tom was one of two sons of the late Rudy and Joan Vassallo. He graduated from Wayne Hills High School in 1977, where he was widely recognized for his exceptional artistic talent, particularly in sketching and painting.  This was a skill Tom continued to nurture and practice throughout his life.

Following high school, Tom attended Stockton University in Galloway, NJ. After a few years, he chose to step away from his studies to join his father in the family’s sign painting business. After his father's passing in 1985, Tom embarked on a long and dedicated career as an Inventory Control Clerk with Anritsu, a medical equipment manufacturing company, where he worked for several decades before his recent retirement.

A man of quiet passions, Tom found joy and community through bowling.  Bowling was a sport he cherished deeply. At his peak, he bowled three to four times a week on his own and in leagues throughout Northern New Jersey, including venues in Ramsey, Mahwah, and the T-Bowl in Wayne. Although he never achieved a perfect 300 game, he came heartbreakingly close, once falling short in the final frame. Tom was also an avid boxing enthusiast and a devoted music lover, with a deep appreciation for a wide variety music including artists like Lou Reed and Iggy Pop.  He was also quite proud of his extensive and treasured collection of vinyl records.

 Though reserved and private by nature, Tom found strength and comfort in his Christian faith. He created lifelong bonds with a close-knit group of dear friends which he fondly referred to as his “Group of Sixteen Friends” with whom he shared decades of memories, laughter, and companionship.

Tom will be remembered for his gentle spirit, artistic soul, and the quiet yet meaningful ways he touched the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone that knew him.

Tom is survived by his brother, Mark Vassallo of Spring Green, WI; his nieces, Olivia Vassallo of Middleton, WI, and Megan Zink and her husband Eric of Stoughton, WI; his nephews, Tommy and Dylan Vassallo, both of Spring Green, WI; and three grandnieces and nephews: Noah, Milo, and Ethan. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, Rudy and Joan Vassallo.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Tom’s name are kindly asked to consider a donation in his name to the ASPCA.