Thomas Lafornia, Jr of Niagara Falls NY passed away on Thursday, April 16 at Roswell Park Institute after a short illness. He was born in Rochester NY on May 5, 1931 and was the son of the late Thomas and Rose (Comella) Lafornia, Sr.

Tom came to Niagara Falls as a child and spent his early years on 19th Street before moving to LaSalle where he graduated from LaSalle High School in 1949. He relocated to Lewiston NY in 1957 and returned to the city in 1982. He was sales director for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company for over 20 years, retiring in the 1980's. He won numerous awards for Excellence in Sales and for establishing individual sales records within the Niagara region. Tom also owned and operated Niagara Drywall Service in the late 50's to early 60's. He was an active member of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and Alter Server. He was honored by the Mt Carmel Men's Club and received the Bob Laurrie Award for his extensive volunteering and contributions to parish life. Tom was also past president of Youngstown Lions Club, serving in 1963-1964. He enjoyed watching sports, collecting sports memorabilia and loved the NY Yankees! Tom also had a great affection for dogs and leaves behind Brutus, Caesar, Jamie, Robbie and Mickey. To some, Tom might have shown a gruff exterior at times, but was well known for his warm heart and kindness to others. He will also be remembered as a great story teller. He had a warm wit about him, was outgoing and possessed a warm personality. He will be missed by all that touched him.

Two children, Thomas Lafornia, III of Niagara Falls NY and Cathlene (John) Leardini of Warwick NY survive him. He is also survived by one brother and two sisters, Timothy Lafornia of Niagara Falls, Mary Madeline (William) Cocklin of Hamburg NY and Connee (Nicholas) Safis of California. A special friend, companion and fiancée, Eileen Wisor and her children, and especially her grandchildren also survive him. Tom also leaves behind 4 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends may call on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9PM at the MJ COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS NY where funeral services will begin Monday, April 20th at 9:15AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00AM in Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph Parish at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 27th and Independence Avenue in Niagara Falls. Entombment will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston NY.