Thomas Anthony Rudolfi

Longtime Astoria resident and retired Astoria Fire Department lieutenant Tom Rudolfi passed away peacefully on March 7, 2017, at St. Vincent Hospital with family by his side. A service has already been held.

Thomas Anthony Rudolfi was born on April 20, 1930, to Yugoslavian immigrants, Toma Rudolfi and Dinka Biskopovich. He joined sisters Thomasina and Mary Ann, both of whom passed away in 1991.

After attending Star of the Sea School, Tom went to work for CRPA and gillnetted with his brother-in-law, Rocco Danielovich, until his enlistment into the U.S. Army. Cpl. Rudolfi served as a weapons instructor at Schofield Barracks in Honolulu.

After his tour of duty, Tom returned to his Astoria home and began his 28-year career with the Astoria Fire Department, retiring in 1980.

In 1960, Tom married Judith Susan Taylor. They raised their family at the old family home on Duane Street. In 1990 they built a home in the Fernhill area, and in 2004 built their dream home at the Mill Pond, where they enjoyed family gatherings, watching the trolley and ships pass by, and talking to tourists about Astoria history. Judy passed away at home in 2008, and Tom resided there until his passing.

Tom provided years of entertainment for family and friends with his numerous stories of growing up in Astoria. His quick wit and loving spirit warmed our hearts.

Tom lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed clam digging with Judy, hunting, family vacations and shopping for the best deals in town. He was a great cook, and was famous for his “spicy spaghetti.”

Tom, like St Francis, loved animals of all kinds. He made sure to have treats for any who visited his door. Gully the seagull would often show his appreciation by presenting Tom with a small flounder.

Tom is survived by his children, Tom Duane and Cindy Rudolfi, Debi and Lyman Henderson, Joe and Tara Rudolfi and Susie Lempea; grandchildren, Bobbi Rae, Mariah, Tony, Tyler, Andrew, Jacob, Tasia and Bria; nieces, Diane Kettner, Rochelle Parker and Lori Frazell; and a nephew, Rocco Danielovich. He also leaves behind

great-granchildren, nieces and nephews.

Tom always wondered why the Good Lord kept him here so long. We knew why. We needed him. He was simply amazing.

To all family and friends, this isn’t the end, as Tom always said, “I’ll see ya when I see ya.”