Thomas J. McColgan. Jr.

Thomas J McColgan Jr, age 87, passed away on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the Ellis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Norwood, Massachusetts.  Born in Norwood, Massachusetts on June 27, 1936, he was the son of the late Thomas McColgan and Louise (Dargowonis) Sustavich.  Tom spent his early years in Norwood before his family settled in Walpole, Massachusetts, where as a young boy, he found his love for hockey and baseball.  He took his passion for sports to Walpole High School, playing for the varsity teams before his graduation in 1955.  Following his graduation, Tom enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country.  Three years later, he was honorably discharged, having earned the rank of Lance Corporal. 

Tom married his beloved wife, Marilyn Carol Hutchings, on May 27, 1961, at Saint Mary's Church in East Walpole.  The young couple made their home in Walpole, where they welcomed three children, Barry, Brian, and Paula.  Tom had a long successful career in the book binding field, retiring in 2001.  While he worked hard at his job, Tom loved coming home to look at a new construction project.  With a hands-on attitude, Tom built his family's home, completing an addition and garage as his family needed some room to grow.  The was never a project that he couldn't take on, putting his handy man skills to work.  One of his favorite projects to tend to were his three gardens, where he cultivated and grew his famous tomatoes, sharing them with family and friends.

Tom's love for sports continued throughout his life, and he continued playing hockey for several years.  After hanging up the skates, he looked forward to watching the Boston Bruins take the ice and was a loyal fan through both the good and bad years.  In fact, Tom loved watching all his hometown Boston teams, supporting the Patriots, the Red Sox, and the Celtics.  In addition to sports, Tom had a passion for old cars, and spent countless hours in his garage restoring vintage vehicles to full operation.

Beloved husband of the late Marilyn Carol (Hutchings) McColgan.

Loving father of Barry J. McColgan and his wife, Trisha, of Bellingham, Brian D. McColgan and his wife, Maura, of Walpole, and Paula J. Burke and her husband, Sean, of Worcester.

Cherished grandfather of Caitlin Burke, Nolan Burke, Mollie McColgan, Emily McColgan, and Joseph McColgan.

Brother of Michael McColgan and his wife, Laurie, of East Dennis, and the late Diane DeLucca.

Also survived by his many loving nieces and nephews.

At the request of Tom's family, all services will be held privately, with interment taking place at Highland Cemetery in Norwood.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Tom's name may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, State House, Room 546, Boston, MA 02133.

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.