Thomas Cascio

Thomas S. Cascio, 79, of Chicago, Illinois, died May 13, 2014. Tom was born to the late Margaret and Frank Cascio, on January 13, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from St. Mel High School and received a Bachelor’s degree from DePaul University. A proud Italian-American, Tom was a Lieutenant Colonel, retired from the United States Army Reserve, and an active member of American Legion Post 541. He was active in his community, and his parish, St. Ferdinand. He spent countless hours volunteering for numerous causes, including as a longtime member of the Optimist Club. Tom was passionate about the spirit of optimism as a means towards the improvement of community. First and foremost, however, Tom was a friend to all he met; always available to lend a helping hand or a shoulder to lean on. Tom was preceded in death by his loving parents, his cousins Marion (John) Catezone, nee Napoli, and Salvatore (Mary Beth, surviving) Abbene. He is survived by his dear cousins Salvatore (Terri) Napoli and Phil Mangiaracina, as well as many other cousins and numerous wonderful friends.In lieu of flowers, donations to USO (uso.org) or American Red Cross (redcross.org). Visitation Friday, May 16, 4:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL. Funeral Services begin Saturday May 17, 9:30 a.m. at the Funeral Home and will proceed to Our Lady Mother of the Church, Mass 10:30 a.m. Committal Service with military honors immediately following at Acacia Park Cemetery, 7800 W. Irving Park Rd., Norridge, IL. Info www.cumberlandchapels.com or 708-456-8300. “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” ? John Holmes