Thomas (Tom) Barber's Obituary
Thomas (Tom) Barber
Tom Barber, 80, of North Ridgeville, died on February 6th, 2022. Tom was born in Cleveland on August 2nd, 1941 to the late Jenny (nee Viscomi) and Louie Barber. He was preceded in death by siblings Anthony Barber (Carmela, nee Crimaldi, deceased), Mary Stavale (Carmen, deceased) and Clara Valenti (Rudy, deceased). He is survived by his sister Jeanette Kaniecki (Ronald, deceased), and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Tom was known as the face of Nino’s in North Ridgeville for the past 32 years. The Barber brothers- Anthony (Nino) and Tom, alongside their family, ran the original Nino’s Pizza located in Cleveland on W. 130th from the early 1950’s until the early 1970’s. In 1990 the brothers reintroduced Nino’s as an Italian restaurant in its current location in North Ridgeville. Tom took great pride in serving the best authentic Italian food on the West side, but his greatest joy came from getting to know Nino’s customers. Tom’s warmth and humor made everyone who walked through the doors of Nino’s feel comfortable and welcome. Tom’s true gift was his ability to connect with people and make friends wherever he went. So many of his employees and customers became close lifelong friends that it would be impossible to list them all here. This is something he treasured and often spoke of in his last days.
Above all, Tom loved and valued family. He was the “Funcle” (fun uncle) to his nieces and nephews and their families, and “Tommy” to so many others who loved him. He always enjoyed holidays and family gatherings, and especially loved Christmas. His generosity and unique gifts are legendary. Holidays will never be the same without him.
Tom’s legacy will continue on through Nino’s and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Family and friends are welcome on Sunday, February 13, 2022 from 11:00 AM-3:00 PM at the Sunset Chapel, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070. Celebration of life will take place at 3:00 PM at the chapel. Online condolences and memories may be left on Tom's memorial page at www.sunsetfuneralandcemetery.com.
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