Obituary of Thomas Kirel Racovitis

72 years on January 29, 2015 peacefully with his wife by his side. Born on October 21, 1942 in Windsor, Ontario. Husband of his beloved wife, Marilyn (Kashkawol) of 50 years; Loving father of Helena Ventrella of Windsor, Kristen Cullen of West Bloomfield, MI and Kirel Racovitis of Sarnia, Ontario. Father in-law of the late Michael Ventrella and the late Niall Cullen. Amazing grandfather of Kiara, Frank and Ariana Ventrella; Aidan, Declan and Taryn Rose Cullen and Ashton Racovitis. Fabulous brother of John Racovitis and wife Faye of Bessemer, MI; Valerie Stoiantsis and the late Christos Stoiantsis; the late Frank Reno and Rita Reno of Shelby Twp., MI. Brother in-law of Constance Kashkawol of Palm Springs, CA. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and life long friends who all adored him. Thom was known by many to be an unconditional friend, a mentor and teacher within the culinary and restaurant industry across Ontario and an outspoken advocate for political fairness within the Windsor community. His philanthropy efforts spanned decades and he led the way to make a true difference for those in need. He will be greatly missed by so many. The world was a better place because he was a part of it. Visitation at the WINDSOR CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME (Banwell Chapel) (519)253-7234 11677 Tecumseh Road East on Super Bowl Sunday February 1, 2015 from 1:00pm until 6:00pm. Prayers Sunday at 5:30pm. Thom will then lie in state on Monday February 2, 2015 at Our Lady of Assumption Church McEwan Campus (711 McEwan Ave) from 9:00am until time of mass of the Resurrection at 11:00am. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a donation in his name to one of the following organizations: CARE FOR KIDNEYS FOUNDATION, ST. CLAIR COLLEGE THOM RACOVITIS CULINARY BURSARY. Special thanks to all the first responders, Doctors, nurse and staff for all of their attention and care of Thom who worked tirelessly to try and save his life. In respect of the Racovitis family " Thom would like to be with his family watching the Super Bowl on Sunday "