Obituary: Thomas Rago, 83

Thomas Rago, age 83, died peacefully on Jan. 26, 2013 at Morristown [Medical Center] following a brief illness. 

Mr. Rago was a lifelong resident of Morristown and owner of Rago Brothers Shoe Repair on Speedwell Avenue, where he worked since he was 8 years old with his father and later with his two sons.

His integrity as a businessman and generosity to the community was well known. Mr. Rago worked hard and was proud to have sent his children to college and provided well for his wife and family.

He was a graduate of the old Bayley High School and a faithful parishioner at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Morristown. He enjoyed singing and was proud to have won a singing contest in his youth.

Thomas was a CYO basketball coach and avid bowler when he was younger. He remained a sports enthusiast throughout his life and attended the sporting events of all his children and grandchildren as often as possible.

In recent years, Mr. Rago enjoyed going to Atlantic City with other parishioners of St. Margaret's and traveling with his family. His family was the most important thing in his life and Mr. Rago was quick to show photos of his treasured wife, six children, and 16 grandchildren. 

Mr. Rago was predeceased by his mother Antonietta Rago and his father Vito Rago of Morris Plains. He is survived by his loving wife Mary Costanzo, his six children and their spouses, Mary Lynn and Bill Powell of Boonton; Thomas and Elaine Rago of Randolph; Tony and Geri Rago of Mendham; Melinda and Brian Lucas of Mendham; Michelle Rago and Tim Gardner of Bronxville, New York and Marissa and Fredrik Hedengren of Mendham. He is also survived by his 16 grandchildren, Caitlin, Sara, Jonathan, Anthony, Marissa, Eva, Thomas, Trent, Niklas, Christian, Dean, Caleb, Michela, Tatiana, Mia and Maya. 

Visiting was Tuesday evening, Jan. 29, 2013 at Dangler Funeral Home, 600 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains, N.J. 07950. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday morning at St. Margaret of Scotland Church, Speedwell & Sussex Avenue, Morristown at 10 a.m. followed by Entombment at Holy Rood Mausoleum in Morris Township.