Thomas Gerald Vagnarelli, 73, passed away January 31 at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Thomas was born January 23, 1940, in Keene, NY, the son of Sarah “Sadie” (nee Brennan) and Frank Vagnarelli.

Tom, who lived most of his life in Saranac Lake, was pure joy to know. Quick to laugh and quick with a witty comment, he was a true gentleman and a devout Catholic. Tom loved life – his family and friends, music (especially Pavarotti and Lawrence Welk), good food, and the Yankees. He loved being an uncle to his many nieces and nephews, and he excelled in that role.

Thomas was predeceased by his parents; his two brothers, Louis and Francis, and foster brother Daniel McAuliffe; two sisters, Rita and Jane; a brother-in-law, Albert P. Nadler; and a nephew, Kurt Nadler. He is survived by his sister Adelaide V. Nadler of Keene Valley, formerly of Saranac Lake; sister-in-law Shirley Vagnarelli of Keene; nine nieces and nephews and several great-nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. There will be no calling hours. A funeral mass will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, February 18, at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Saranac Lake.

Following the funeral mass, a reception for those who knew Thomas will be held at Nonna Fina restaurant.

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