Obituary of Thomas R. Squires

Thomas R. Squires, of Blossvale, passed away peacefully at the age of 80 at home on Friday, August 9, 2024. Born in Rome, New York, on June 29, 1944, he was the son of the late Robert and Ethel (Seaton) Squires. He married Mary Scott on July 23, 1977, in a union that lasted 47 years.

Tom served in the United States Army from 1965-1967 with the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam Conflict. Tom took great pride in serving his country, and in his ability to jump and parachute. He did it without hesitation and often volunteered, feeling it was his duty. Tom was a true patriot, and a lifetime member of the Meeker-O’Rourke Taberg American Legion.  After his honorable discharge, he attended the International Tractor Trailer Training Institute in Agawam, MA. Tom embarked on a 40-year career in truck driving and his CB handle was “Suitcase”.  He worked for various companies including Rome Express, Associated Transport, Revere Copper and Brass, Auburn Wire, and ultimately retiring from HP Hood. Though he enjoyed his work, weekends and vacations were his favorite times.

Tom's interests were captured in all four seasons. He liked a good snowfall in anticipation of operating his Caterpillar payloader to clear snow in downtown Blossvale. He was an enthusiastic fisherman.  He was always ready for boating fun with tubing and waterskiing on Lake Delta, Oneida Lake, and the Fulton Chain.  Tom enjoyed showcasing his 1981 Chevy hot rod at car shows, and hunting in the Northern Tier. He was a member of the Little Mountain Club, Rome Outboard Boat Club, Tappet Twirlers, and Old Forge Fish and Game Club. He had a lot of fun with Mary, Luke, nieces, nephews, and anyone else that could keep up with him! He enjoyed riding the four-wheeler into camp and making sure the “condo” in the Rondax was ready for hunting season.  A particularly favorite time of year was Christmas Eve when family and neighbors would gather to taste Tom’s famous "Gee Dunk."

Tom stressed the importance of purchasing products made in the U.S.A., supporting local businesses, and exercising the right to vote. He was very kind, generous, and always looked on the bright side.  Tom often said, “I had a good life, a family to be proud of and a comfortable home; who could ask for anything more?” Now it's time for God to take over the driving,“Suitcase”. 10-7 until we meet again.

Tom will be greatly missed and is survived by his very devoted and loving wife, Mary; son, Luke; sister, Mary Lou (Bill) Rushford; brothers-in-law Gary (Sybil) Scott and Dale (Leona) Scott; sisters-in-law Susan Almony and Cathy (Jeff) Radley; fifteen nieces and nephews.  A special thanks to Tom’s lifelong friend Paul Farnsworth. He was predeceased by his brother, James, and brothers-in-law Edwin Williams and Russell Almony.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 16, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 35 3rd Street, Camden, NY, followed by interment at Saint Patrick's Cemetery, Route 285, Taberg. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 9464 State Route 13, Camden, NY 13316.

You may view the obituary and offer condolences at www.nunnandharper.com