Thomas (Tom) William Francesco Brancato
February 11, 1950 - July 9, 2021
Passed away peacefully with family at his side at Birchwood Terrace Nursing Home in Kenora, Ontario on Friday July 9th. Loving husband of Marlene (nee Dougherty) of 46 years. Proud father of Jennifer (Bruce) Skene and Sarah (Shawn) Black. Very proud grandfather of Ryan and Jill Skene, and Nathan and Allison Black. Survived by sister Donna (Doug) Fish and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by brother Ralph (June) Brancato. Son of the late Ralph and Agnes Brancato, and son in law of the late Molly and Charles Dougherty.
Tom was born in Montreal on February 11, 1950. He and his family moved several times due to his father being in the military. This included living in France for a few years, and he always spoke of his time there fondly.
He enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Lac Gauvreau, boating, and water skiing. In the winter, he also enjoyed playing hockey, downhill skiing and was a member of the ski patrol.
On December 1, 1974 he married Marlene, and they went on to have their two daughters and many dogs over the years. There are many happy memories of camping, boating, skiing, and family vacations to North Carolina, and PEI. He never missed a sporting event or other event involving his daughters, and even took on coaching girls basketball at one point.
Tom joined the RCMP in 1975, and was a Constable in North Vancouver from 1976-1978, and in Ottawa from 1978-1984. He then began his career with CSIS in 1984 until he retired in 1994.
Later in life he was excited to become a grandfather and enjoyed spending time with his family.
After Marlene retired, they moved to Kenora to be closer to Jennifer and her family. Unfortunately, shortly after this move, his health issues became worse and dementia took over.
The family would like to thank Dr. Sawatzky and the entire staff at Birchwood Terrace. Everyone there was very caring and kind, and took wonderful care of him during his time there.
Cremation will be taking place, with further details to follow.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to either the Alzheimer’s Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
On-line condolences at www.Brownfuneralhomekenora.com.
Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre entrusted with funeral arrangements