Thomas John Mccarty

Thomas John McCarty, 84 of Rockton passed away on June 8, 2008 in the home of his daughter surrounded by his family who loved him so much. Born March 20, 1924 in Rockford, the son of Dennis and Anna (Grigalauskas) McCarty. He married Patricia Ann Chalmers in Rockford on November 14, 1948. She predeceased him in 1992. Thomas was employed by the Rockford Fire Department from 1951 until retiring as Captain in 1982. Thomas served in the United States Navy Air Corps at the rank of LTjg as a SBD Dauntless pilot and instructor from 1942-1947. He remained with the Naval Reserve stationed at Glenview Naval Air Station.  Thomas was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church, Moose Club, Knights of Columbus and the Retired Firefighters Association.   Thomas is survived by his daughter Mari Lynn (Terrance) Smith, grandchildren Laura Anne (Brian) Kenrick, Sarah Lynn (Nik) Butenhoff, Meggie Smith, great grandson Jacob Kenrick, and special friend Christine Marsh. He was predeceased by his parents, step father Leslie Woodcock, wife, and son Thomas.   The family would like to extend thanks to dads life long friends for their love and support. The family would also like to thank dads wonderful neighbors for all their help and kindness. Thank you to the nurses at St. Anthony Ambulatory Center for their exceptional care, also thank you to NPs Chris, Tammy, and staff.   Funeral Mass will be held in St. Bridget Catholic Church, Friday, June 13, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of Mass in the church. Interment will be private. Memorials to St. Bridget Catholic Church, 604 Clifford Ave., Loves Park, IL 61111; Rockford Fire Department Relief Association, 204 S. 1st St., Rockford, IL 61104 or Noahs Ark Animal Sanctuary, 111 N. 1st St., Rockford, IL 61107. To