Thomas Harry Gross

Thomas Harry Gross, 83, passed away peacefully at home on March 21, 2022.  A devoted husband and father, his selflessness and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him.  Born May 4, 1938, Tom was raised in New Kensington and after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, Tom married the love of his life and started at the Bettis Laboratory as a mechanical engineer.  In his 42 year career, during which he and Judy welcomed four children, Tom earned a doctorate from Carnegie Mellon University as well as the respect of his colleagues who appreciated his strong work ethic and steadfast support.  Never one to put himself first, he demonstrated his love for God, his family, and all people through his humility and generosity as a colleague, CCD teacher, and youth coach.

Tom enjoyed playing racquetball, softball,and basketball in various leagues and stayed busy with projects at the family home in Peters Township.  Tom continued his active lifestyle for as long as he was able and following his retirement continued to teach others by example through his positive outlook on life.  Despite battling Parkinson’s disease and a spinal cord injury for more than 20 years, Tom never once complained or grew frustrated but instead he showed gratitude for his many blessings and patiently endured his health struggles strengthened by an unwavering faith in Christ.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Judith, whose devotion to Tom ensured he was lovingly cared for every day, children Mark (Terri), Kristen (Albert), Allen, Jason (Christina), grandchildren Tyler (Hayley), Macy, Jacob, Rachel, Nicholas, Benjamin, Joshua, Leila, and Melina.  He is also survived by his siblings Maureen, twin brother Richard (Alice Ann), Toni Jane, and Michael (Darlene), and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents Anthony and Mary Alice and granddaughter Callie.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Benedict the Abbot Catholic Church in McMurray, Pennsylvania on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 9:30am.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to one of the numerous charities Tom supported, the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania.