Thomas L. Constantino
June 28, 1944 - July 17, 2018
Surrounded by family, Colonel Thomas Lloyd Constantino, passed away on June 17, 2018, at his home in Redwood City, California. Tom fought a two-decade battle with Parkinson’s Disease with strength and dignity.
Born in San Mateo, California on June 28, 1944, to Claire Butcher and Paul J. Constantino, Tom was the third eldest of twelve children— Doris Osterling, Paul (identical twin), David, Joan, Carl, Catherine, Mark, Philip, John, Bob, and Ken.
Tom graduated from Serra High School and went on to receive his B.A. from the University of Portland. He served with the Merchant Marines while preparing for law school, and during the Vietnam War, he was drafted and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Tom received the Legion of Merit for exceptional meritorious service and retired as Colonel after 31 years of service. In addition to being a Marine Corps reservist, Tom spent nearly 20 years at Visa. Prior to joining Visa, he was with Bay View Bank and served as a Congressional aide for California’s 14th Congressional District.
Community service was Tom’s passion. During his time in the Marines, he helped lead the Toys for Tots initiative. He also served his local community upon his election to the San Mateo Community College District Board, eventually retiring as Board President and Trustee Emirates. Tom served on the United States Naval Academy admissions board and the Serra High School Board, volunteered for Interplast, and belonged to the San Mateo Rotary Club.
Tom loved to travel. He enjoyed visiting National Parks and sharing them with his family. He especially enjoyed the beauty of Northern California and treasured summers and winters in Mi Wuk Village at his family’s cabin.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Susan McGrath Constantino, four children, Mary Cortez (Marc Cortez), Christopher Constantino, (Dallas Constantino), Lindsey Constantino, and Whitney Constantino, and four granddaughters; Leah, Sydney, Calliope, and Hazel.
Services will be held at Crippen & Flynn Funeral Chapels on Sunday, July 22 at 11 am. Private reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or a charity of your choice.