Obituary of Thomas J. DiGiacomo

February 28, 2020, at age 70. Tom was born and grew up in Buffalo, NY, then moved to Rochester to attend the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, then a master’s degree at the University of Rochester. After working in manufacturing, then co-founding and operating his own company, he became Professor of Electrical and Mechanical Technology at Monroe Community College. After over 20 years, a series of health issues and disabilities forced his retirement, but he remained mentally active throughout his life.

Tom had the soul of an engineer, who could literally build computers out of spare parts. He could fix almost anything electrical but preferred to take things apart and put them back together in an improved fashion. But he also had an artist’s ability to recognize color, light, and form, and a poet’s sensitivity to feelings and ideas. Tom was strong-willed, and never suffered fools gladly, but he also cried at sentimental movies and baby-talked to his beloved pets. He loved animals, birds, flowers, forests, and rivers, and he was an accomplished chef. He was insightful about politics, history, and contemporary issues. Tom’s wit was legendary, even in the throes of pain and illness. Tom was kind to others, always thinking of their welfare, and his moral compass was stronger than steel.

He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Julia Lederman, whom he was fond of describing as “my trophy wife.” He is predeceased by his father, Carmen DiGiacomo; and survived by his mother, June M. DiGiacomo; sister Diane M. Denton; brother-in-law Ernest Lederman; cousins, and friends.

Those wishing to donate in Tom’s memory may consider

Joyful Rescues, http://www.joyfulrescues.org/  - 1319 Turock Road, Cuba, NY 14727, where donations will sponsor a transport of rescued dogs in Tom’s memory

or to

Rush Public Library, http://www.rushlibrary.org/ - 5799 East Henrietta Road, Rush, NY  14543, where donations will sponsor new materials for young people focused on science, technology, and science fiction.

Tom had made it known that he did not want a funeral, he wanted a party where relatives and friends can enjoy good food, drink, and fun in his memory. 

Update: due to the pandemic, the party must be postponed indefinitely. This posting will be updated when a date is set.