Thomas Joseph Sapienza

Thomas Joseph Sapienza

Thomas Joseph Sapienza, 84, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2023 after a brief illness. Thomas was born on June 12, 1939 in Erie, Pennsylvania to the late Lawrence and Mary (Casullo) Sapienza.

Thomas graduated from Tech High School in 1958, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. After high school, he enlisted in the Army National Guard where he served honorably as a Heavy Weapons Infantryman.

Like many Erie natives, Thomas was employed at Marx Toys for several years before becoming a Letter Carrier for the United States Post Office for over 30 years. He served as a Union Steward for several years, and eventually became the Vice-President of the National Association of Letter Carriers local branch 284. In addition, Thomas coached youth basketball and baseball, once winning Baseball Coach of the Year honors in 1982 while coaching Boys Baseball in Erie.

Thomas retired in 2002 and enjoyed watching virtually every New York Yankees game from the friendly confines of his back den. He also enjoyed golfing and road trips with his late brother-in-law Ray Sullivan and spending with his beloved family. Thomas will be remembered as a loving and loyal husband, son, brother, father, grandfather and friend. He was very proud of his Italian heritage and enjoyed talking with friends Gary Valerio, Tony Colonna, Elso Portanova and Joe Leone about everything from sports, to politics to family. He was most proud of his grandson Jon, and during Jon's baseball playing days he was his biggest fan.

In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Sapienza II.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Mary Ann (Altadonna) Sapienza, his son Larry Sapienza, his grandson Jon Sapienza, and his sister Angela Sullivan. He is further survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may call on Monday at Saint Paul Catholic Church, 1617 Walnut Street, at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass there at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., is handling funeral arrangements.