John Thomas Caruso

Born on Oct. 15, 1951, to John and Evelyn Caruso, Tom grew up in Salamanca, NY, where he graduated from Salamanca High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as an aviation machinist’s mate aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. After his service, he attended Alfred State College.

Tom worked for several farms in Cattaraugus County before purchasing his own farm in Panama, NY, where he lived for the rest of his life. He was a dedicated employee of the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities for over 30 years.

Deeply committed to his community, Tom volunteered with the Panama Fire Department, 4-H, and the Hurlbut Methodist Church. In retirement, he dedicated much of his time to building homes with Habitat for Humanity.

An outdoorsman at heart, Tom found joy in farming, caring for animals, hunting, and trapping. He also had a passion for running 5K races with his children and proudly served as his daughter’s “coach” for her triathlons. A skilled craftsman, he could build or fix anything, often working on woodworking projects in his barn.

Tom married Debbie (Briggs) Caruso on April 21, 1979, and together they raised two children, Amanda Caruso and Andy Caruso (Ashley). He was a proud “Pa” to his three grandchildren, Nicola, Benjamin, and Emma, cherishing every moment spent playing card games and attending their sports and activities.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn, and his brother, Tony.

Tom will be remembered for his kindness, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and community.

If donations would like to be made, the family requests they be directed to Hurlbut Memorial Church and Chautauqua Habitat for Humanity, two organizations that were close to Tom’s heart.

Visiting hours will be held at Hurlbut Memorial Church on Friday, March 28 from 4 to 7 pm, where family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance. A memorial service celebrating Tom’s life will take place at Hurlbut on Saturday, March 29 at 1 pm.The Reverend Rachel Stuart will officiate.

To leave a remembrance or to post condolences to the family, please visit freayfuneralhome.com.