Thomas Leonardelli

Thomas "Tom" Joseph Leonardelli passed away unexpectedly on March 31, 2023, at the age of 67 in Colgate, Wisconsin. Tom was born on March 19, 1956 in West Allis, Wisconsin to Evelyn and Walter Leonardelli. He graduated from Pius Xi High School, where he excelled as a wrestler. Tom spent his teenage years working at his family's deli, nurturing his appreciation for the food industry. After graduating high school, Tom pursued his dream of running restaurants and moved to Monterey, California, where he became manager at the Rusty Pelican. It was there, he met his future wife, Gayle Cummings. Soon after, they were married. Their only daughter Cristina, was born on December 13, 1989. Tom and Gayle were happily married until Gayle's passing in 2014. Years later, Tom moved back to Wisconsin to be closer to his siblings. Tom was a fun and charismatic man who loved cooking, fishing, his dogs, and spending time in the company of his family. He was a masterful chef, who relished in hosting the family Thanksgiving, dinner parties and countless other celebrations at his home. Those close to Tom will fondly remember his parties ending with late night pizza and card games. Above all things, Tom loved being a father. This past year he was overjoyed to become a grandfather to his first grandchild, Cameron Thomas Gonzalez, who was born on December 13, 2022. He would tell everyone he spoke with, friend or stranger, how much he looked forward to visiting Cameron and Cristina in California. Tom will always be remembered for his sense of humor, love of a good prank, hospitality and quick wit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Without a doubt, he is surrounded by family and friends in heaven leading a game of poker. Tom is survived by his daughter, Cristina (Daniel) Gonzalez, his grandson, Cameron Gonzalez, his brothers Wally (Terri) Leonardelli, Terry (Patty) Leonardelli, Tim (Jan) Leonardelli, and Todd (Kathy) Leonardelli, and his sister, Susan (Dennis) Olla, along with many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 10 AM, followed by a service at 12 PM at Schramka Funeral Home, W164 N9034 Water St, Menomonee Falls, WI. A reception with hor d'oeuvres will follow at Tom's residence in Colgate.