Gaeton Anthony “Tom” Simonetti, age 81, of Woodbridge, entered into rest on Saturday, August 28, 2010, at his home with his devoted wife by his side.
He was the beloved husband of 59 years to Elizabeth (Pagliaro) Simonetti. Tom was born and raised in Shelton on January 27, 1929, son of the late Antonio and Tomasina (Cavallaro) Simonetti and was a resident of Shelton before moving to Woodbridge 20 years ago.
In his youth, Tom was a well recognized star football player for Shelton High School.
He continued as a strong supporter of SHS Football throughout his life, and regularly attended games until he was 80. He served his country with the United States Army during the Korean War. He began a successful business career in Shelton as the founder of Simonetti Cleaners, and founded the former Long Hill Nursing Home in Shelton, Marshall Lane Manor in Derby, and Clintonville Manor in North Haven. He also developed businesses in Arizona and Texas.
He was a charter member of the Exchange Club, and a 30 year member of the Connecticut Association of Health Care Facilities. Tom loved to travel with his wife, and together they saw much of the world.
He is the beloved father of Anthony Simonetti and his wife Janice of Shelton, Daniel Simonetti of West Haven, Deborah Simonetti of Ansonia, Joan Simonetti of Orange, and Melissa Simonetti of East Haven. He also leaves three cherished grandchildren, Thomas and Nicholas Simonetti and Natalie Subbloie, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, Dan and John Simonetti.
Friends may greet the family at the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Road, Shelton, on Tuesday from 2:30 to 7 PM.
On Wednesday, his funeral procession will leave the Riverview Funeral Home at 9:15 AM for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM at St. Jude Church in Derby. Burial will follow at Mt. St. Peters Cemetery, also in Derby.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Gaeton and Elizabeth Simonetti Scholarship Fund.
