THOMAS TRAFFICHINI

Born on February 20, 1949, in Castel Frentano, Chieti, Italy, Tom made a life-changing journey at the age of five when he boarded a ship with his parents, Umberto “Bert” and Maria DiBattista Traffichini, and emigrated to the United States in 1954. The memories of that voyage would remain with him throughout his life.

His family settled in Weirton, where his father worked as a pipefitter in Weirton Steel, and his mother devoted herself to their home. In the years that followed, Tom’s younger brother and sister were born in the U.S., completing their close-knit family.

Tom graduated from Weirton Madonna High School in 1968 and spent his working years at the Hancock County Workshop, where he sorted metal for the local steel mills. He later retired from the laundry department, having served with diligence and pride.

Affectionately known as a “free spirit, free like the wind,” Tom lived life on his own terms. He cherished his routines and was deeply committed to them, even in the smallest of details. Though quirky at times, his character was sincere.

Tom was a master of trivia–known by his family as the “Trivia King.” He had an enduring love for old Westerns and football, always cheering on his favorite team, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Few things brought him more happiness than a plate of homemade spaghetti or a meal at Eat’n Park. He also treasured the simple pleasure of car rides while listening to the timeless tunes of the 1960s.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Umberto “Bert” and Maria Traffichini.

He will be remembered with love by his sister ToniAnn Traffichini; his brother Mario Traffichini and wife Janette; and his niece Andrea Mozingo and her husband Ryan.

A private Liturgy of the Word service was held at 12 noon on Friday at the Greco- Hertnick Funeral Home in Weirton, with Rev. Fr. Binu Sebastian officiating. Entombment followed at Saint Paul’s Mausoleum.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Wellsburg Health Center and the WVU Medicine – Weirton Medical Center Critical Care Unit for the compassionate care provided to Tom in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hancock County Sheltered Workshop or a charity of your choice.

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