Willow Spring – Thomas J. Chanelli, age 59, died Sunday, July 1, 2012. A Funeral Mass was held Saturday, July 7, 2012 at 11 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church 1005 Wilbon Road Fuquay-Varina.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Elizabeth; sons, Christopher and Scott; brother, Stephen Chanelli and his wife Mindy; sister, Joan Miller; his nieces, Jennifer and Candace; his nephews, Daniel and Gregory.

Thomas worked for 38 years with the USDA APHIS PPQ as an inspector, supervisor and an assistant regional manager. He received many awards for outstanding service. Tom worked domestically and internationally overseeing inspection programs.

Tom was an avid reader of history, religion, and finance. He enjoyed landscape projects and cherished the companionship of his three dogs, Billy, Dixie and Henry. Tom was a very devout Catholic and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved helping with the pancake breakfasts, Hispanic ministry, and distribution of Christmas gifts to the poor.

Nothing brought him greater joy than his two sons of whom he was very proud. Watching Scott play lacrosse for Haverford College and attending Chris’ graduation from the University of Notre Dame were among his most treasured memories.

The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, and staff at Duke Hospital for their compassionate care. A special thank you to Dr. Stevens, Dr. Zidar, Dr. Hobgood, Dr. Shafique, and Tad Nations.

The family received friends on Friday, July 6, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Thomas Funeral Home, 401 N. Ennis St., Fuquay-Varina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Thomas J. Chanelli Memorial Fund “students in need” First Citizens Bank, 1344 N Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.thomasfuneral.com.