Thomas Eugene Mendrala

Thomas Eugene Mendrala, 85, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born in Chicopee, Massachusetts, on April 27, 1941, he lived a life marked by quiet strength and a generous spirit that touched many along the way.

Tom graduated from Chicopee High School in 1958 and went on to serve in the Massachusetts Air National Guard from 1959 to 1975. During that time, he was activated to Europe during the Berlin Wall Crisis. He later built a successful career as the business owner of Northeastern Avionics and Air Services at Barnes Airport in Westfield, Massachusetts, guiding it for nearly 30 years with the same hard work and reliability that defined the rest of his life.

Tom and wife Barbara retired to The Villages, Florida in 2001 to enjoy life to the fullest including being members of the Sebring Club, Glenview Golf Group, participating in many activities, and taking time to visit new places.

Those who knew Tom will remember his kind, quiet manner and his deadpan sense of humor, which often brought a smile when it was least expected. He was caring and generous, always ready to support the people around him. Whether helping through Seniors Versus Crime or serving as the go-to IT support for his neighborhood and family, he gave his time freely and gladly.

Tom was an avid golfer, gardener and photographer. He found joy in both the beauty of the world and the moments worth preserving. He is survived by his wife of nearly 61 years, Barbara (Tryba) Mendrala, and his daughters, Nancy Mendrala (Washington, DC) and Karen Warfel & son-in-law Robert Warfel (Fort Lauderdale, FL). He is also survived by his brother Richard Mendrala (Chicopee, MA). He was the son of Stephen and Helen (Konopacki) Mendrala.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and quiet good humor, remembered with love by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

No services will be provided. A celebration of life will be hosted in the future. Donations can be made to Cornerstone Hospice Foundation or Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To leave thoughts visit www.RobertsofDunnellon.com