Thomas George Rostek's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Thomas George Rostek
March 31, 1945 - May 15, 2025
Baldwin, Pennsylvania
Thomas George Rostek, age 80, of Baldwin, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 15th, surrounded by his loving family.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, he was the cherished son of Flora and John Rostek and beloved brother to Joannie Kavalir, James Rostek, Edward Rostek, Mindy Savatt, Nancy Valdiserri, and Michael Malenka.
A proud graduate of Carrick High School (Class of 1963) and California University of Pennsylvania (1969), Tom dedicated his life to education and service. He taught chemistry at Wilkinsburg High School from 1969-1998, followed by Elderton High School until 2004. He impacted countless students not only in the classroom, but as a cross country coach, chess team coach, class sponsor, yearbook advisor, and the visionary behind "The Wilderness Experience." He also taught at the Community College of Allegheny County, helping many pursue careers in healthcare, and later continued teaching at Thomas Jefferson, Baldwin, and Oakland Catholic High Schools.
Tom had a deep love for the outdoors. He and his son shared a passion for hiking, beginning their Appalachian Trail adventures on Springer Mountain, Georgia, in 1993. He was a dedicated member of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, logging over a thousand volunteer hours and helping build the Silberman Trail Center. His beloved cabin and his work as a trail overseer brought him great joy.
A man of strong faith, Tom was an active leader in his church, Triumph of the Holy Cross (formerly St. Elizabeth), serving as President of the Men's Club and Senior Citizens group, volunteering at the Spring-a-Rama carnival, and enjoying fellowship with friends and family.
One of Tom's favorite places was Deer Valley YMCA Camp, where he created lifelong memories with his family-sailing, hiking, swimming, and telling stories to his grandchildren. Summers were filled with laughter, volleyball games, fishing, ice cream at the snack bar, and crafts with the grandkids.
Known for his playfulness and gentle spirit, Tom spent many days at the Cloverleaf YMCA and Baldwin Pool, where he became an honorary grandpa to many. Whether he was splashing in the water, telling jokes, or simply listening, he made everyone feel special.
Above all, Tom cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 55 years, JoAnn, and a loving father to Thomas (Nancy) Rostek, Kristin Gottesman, and Jennifer (Charles) Leis. He supported them in every way-moving them in and out of homes, cheering on Pittsburgh sports, cooking Sunday spaghetti, and offering steady encouragement and humor.
His grandchildren-Katherine and Andrew Rostek, Sydney and Leo Gottesman, and Cameron and Cecelia Leis-were the light of his life. He never missed a chance to play, imagine, teach, or cuddle. Sunday waffles, playground adventures, and bedtime "Abercrombie" stories will be remembered forever.
Thomas is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Flora and John, and his sister Joannie Kavalir.
Tom leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, kindness, laughter, and love. He will be missed deeply and remembered always.
Family and Friends will be received from 4-8pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at the Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10am on Monday, May 19, 2025 at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church- Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, 1 Grove Pl, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
Burial will be handled by Jefferson Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Potomac Appalachian Trail club in Thomas Rostek's honor at https://www.patc.net/donate.
Online condolences may be made at jeffersonmemorial com.
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