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Thomas Edmond McAleese

Aug. 31, 1948-July 12, 2011

 

Thomas Edmond McAleese passed away peacefully at age 62 from cancer, surrounded by his family in the care of hospice in Fresno.

A resident of Morro Bay, he is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Gayle, of 29 years, and their two children, Monty Ferriera, of Clovis and Staci Ferriera-Stidham, of Fresno. He was the dear grandfather ("Pa") of Cody and Cole Christensen and Cobe Stidham. Thomas is also survived by his beloved mother, Peggy B. McAleese of Sonoma; and his brothers, Richard H. McAleese, of Glen Ellen and Robert B. McAleese, of Sacramento; and their families. He was also the devoted uncle of numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Dr. Richard McAleese; and his grandparents, Dr. Fred O. Butler and Tillie Butler, all of Sonoma.

Born in Oakland and raised in Sonoma, Tom graduated from Sonoma High School in 1966, and Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo in 1970, with a degree in business. He was a self-employed businessman and rancher. He loved fishing, horses and sprint car racing. Tom had a profound love of life and made friends wherever he went. He was devoted to his family and friends, and never missed an opportunity to make life better for them. "Always a pleasure, never too busy" was his lifelong approach to helping others. His optimism, endearing smile, kindness and courage have inspired all who were blessed to know him.

A celebration of his life will be in held on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011, at 3 p.m. in the Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah's Witnesses, 8769 N. Cedar St., Fresno. Remembrances in his memory, in lieu of flowers, may be sent to the Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah's Witnesses at the same address, or to a charity of your