Thomas Joseph Mariola "The Strongest Man has the loudest laugh and the most gentle soul."

The Sacred Heart called Tom home on Sunday, August 5, 2018 surrounded by his adoring family. He has been reunited in Heaven with the love of his life, Rita Mae (McCort) Mariola, the one who he adored for more than 68 years. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather, and the most selfless man, always putting others before himself.

He was born on October 17, 1928 in Akron, Ohio. He was a proud resident of Akron's North Hill until moving to Tallmadge in 1973. He graduated from St. Vincent's High School in 1946, where he was an outstanding athlete and was named an All City Fullback. He was the proud owner of D&M Trucking Company, providing delivery services for Home Centers. People who knew Tom knew what a contagious laugh he always had and was truly the life of the party.

Tom is survived by the people who he loved and laughed with the most. His daughters, Diane Galati, Denise Ingellis and Beth Anne Mariola, and his son, Thomas Patrick Mariola (Judi), grandchildren, Michael Galati (Shanon), Jill Galati (Louis Tan), Daniel Galati, Melissa Wurman (Matthew), and Thomas Ingellis, his former son-in-law, Tony Galati, sister, Mary Ann Cook, and brothers, David Mariola and Dennis Mariola (Vicki). He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends that were very special to him.

Family and friends are welcome to gather and visit on Friday, August 10, 2018 from 5-8 pm at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44305. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 am on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at St. Vincent Catholic Church, 164 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44303. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society and/or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.NewcomerAkron.com