Obituary of Thomas Jares

Thomas James Jares Thomas James Jares, age 52, of San Francisco, CA, passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2011. He was born on September 26, 1959 in Erie, PA, the son of the late, Bernard and Elizabeth Jares. Tom graduated from Gannon University with a bachelor's degree in history. Before moving to San Francisco in 1992, Tom volunteered on the Flagship Niagara. He was also a member of the Flagship Niagara League. Tom's love of Maritime History took him to San Francisco where he worked as a park ranger for the National Maritime Museum. Tom enjoyed leading walking tours at the Historic Pier 45 and boarding historic sailing vessels such as the Balclutha and the Alma. In Tom's spare time, he enjoyed reading, sci-fi and horror movies, classical and classic rock music. He also participated in re-enactments of the War of 1812. Tom had written scholarly works of maritime history and in 2004 published two fictional short stories, "The Captain's Guest" and "The Eternal Man". He was an avid Cleveland Indians fan. Tom had a very generous heart and would help out anyone in need. He is survived by his siblings: David Jares, Susan (Tom) Stark, Jean (Gary) Smith, Tim (Gail) Jares, Mark (Mary) Jares, and Scott Jares. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and his friend since childhood, Dan Sullivan. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister, Bonita. Tom will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Arrangements were handled by the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd. Visitation and services were private. Memorial contributions may be made to The Niagara League, 150 East Front St., Erie, PA 16507-1594. Enhance your memorial with a slideshow and video