In Loving Memory of Coach Thomas J. Restivo
Frontenac, Kansas, lost a beloved community figure on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, as Coach Thomas J. Restivo passed away peacefully at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg at the age of 77. Born on September 12, 1945, in Pittsburg, Tom was the cherished son of Samuel and Christine (Mock) Restivo.
Tom's educational journey led him to Frontenac High School, where he was a standout member of the Raider Football team. He continued his pursuit of knowledge at Pittsburg State University, earning both a Bachelors's and Master's Degree. During his college years, Thomas played a prominent role on the sports field, demonstrating his passion for athletics by engaging in both football and rugby for the Gorillas.
On April 5, 1975, Tom exchanged vows with Deborah Lineberger, and their love story endured over the years. She survives him, holding their memories close to heart at the home they shared.
As an Educator and Coach, Tom left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and athletes. He contributed significantly to his community, serving on the Frontenac City Council and coordinating the Frontenac Homecoming Parade with passion and enthusiasm for many years.
Beyond his professional life, Tom was an avid supporter of sports, a dedicated fan of the Frontenac Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, and the University of Kansas teams, and a proud advocate for all Pitt State Athletics.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, J. Rocky Restivo of Frontenac, and three daughters: Lindsay R. Restivo of Frontenac, Samantha (Brian) Listwan of Carl Junction, MO, and Jennifer (Dave) Robbins of Denver, CO. He is also survived by his sisters, Gayle Moody and Judy Strahan, both of Frontenac, as well as three adored grandchildren: Nayna (Michael) Fields-Holland, Sydney Fields, Paxton Listwan and Stella Rose Restivo.
Tom's life will be celebrated during a memorial service, which will include a Catholic Mass, held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall in Frontenac. Officiating the service will be Father Josh Evans. The family will receive friends at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg Tuesday evening, July 25, from 6-8 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Thomas J. Restivo Memorial Scholarship. These kind gestures can be left at the funeral home or mailed to the address: 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS.
For those unable to attend, condolences and memories may be shared at www.bathnaylor.com. Friends may also sign the register book from 8-5pm Tuesday at Friskel Funeral Home.
We say farewell to a remarkable man, whose legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Services and arrangements are under the thoughtful care of Sacred Heart Parish and Bath-Naylor Funeral Home.
