Thomas Robert Gaul Jr.

We are saddened to announce the passing of Thomas R. Gaul Jr., 81, of Trinity, Florida, on April 14, 2023, after a brave fight against end stage kidney disease. He was born on July 15, 1941 in Cleveland, Ohio.

Tom is survived and deeply missed by his loving ‘bride’ of 63 years, Jeanette (nee Szeene); his children Tracy (Tim) Ortelli, Bridget Mark, and Patrick; his eight grandchildren Shane (Ashley Kirkman), Andrew, Kelly (Jerry Schubert), Hailey, James, Adam, Oliva, and Erin; his sister Barbara Crigger; his brother-in-law Al Morgan; and 4 nieces and 2 nephews.

Tom was predeceased by his father Thomas R. Gaul, mother Irene (nee Kovach); sisters Collette Morgan and Patricia Linder; in-laws Adam and Celia (nee Schirripa) Szeene; son-in-law Leonard Mark; and brother-in-law Richard Crigger.

Tom’s professional life focused on protecting and serving others. He had a successful 27-year career in the Cleveland Police Department, retiring as a sergeant in 1991. During his service he worked in the tactical unit, auto theft bureau, and as Officer in Charge of the Ordinance Unit. He graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy (FBINA) and attended Fenn College and the University of Virginia. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police and the Cleveland Retired Irish Police.

Tom was passionate about riding his motorcycle and flying small aircraft. He was a history buff, coin collector, financial investor, and loved music. Tom was a spiritual man who studied scripture and was deeply committed to his family, including his beloved bichon Eddie (his soulmate). He could best be described as a man of great integrity who was fearless, loyal, sensitive, incredibly compassionate (except for when he was not), with a wicked sense of humor. He was also scrupulously detailed and organized and expected his family to be likewise. Tom will be greatly missed and remembered by the many lives he touched.

Services will be held on April 28, 2023, from 1 - 3 pm at Trinity Memorial Gardens located at 12609 Memorial Dr., Trinity Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Kidney Fund (kidneyfund.org) or Holy Family Home Health Care & Hospice 6707 State Rd., Parma, OH 44134.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/tampa-cremation for the Gaul family.