Thomas J. Palmiotto

The time has come to say “happy trails” to our beloved urban cowboy, father, companion, brother, brother-in-law, proud uncle, cousin, godfather, stepdad and granddad by proxy and dear friend to many.

Tommy is survived by his partner Virginia (Ginger) Johnson, loving son Michael Palmiotto of Arkansas, sister Maryann Vonderhorst and Klaus, his brother Joey Palmiotto and Aleta. Tommy was also honored to be the godfather to Francine Wiegelman and Karl and took on the very patient and comforting role of father figure to Dylan Johnson as well as the Johnson family clan Marnie, Amber with partner Shauna and Aunt Darlene. He grew up in a very close knit loving family. Tommy was originally from Brooklyn coming to California in the 1960s and then onto South Gate to live out his life. After spending time in the army touring Vietnam as a sharpshooter with two purple hearts, he went on to be a rodeo lassoing enthusiast and cattle roper as well as enjoyed all things cowboy. He had many hobbies including model trains but he also excelled at trap and skeet at the South Gate Rod and Gun Club where he was membership chairman. Tommy regaled all his friends and family to their delight with his exploits and adventures. He had a full life with a loving family growing up and a loving family when he left home. We will forever love and miss him and know he is with his heavenly family and his favorite friend, his appaloosa “The Saint.” The viewing for family and friends will be Monday, January 9, 2023 at McKenzie Mortuary Services in Long Beach, and a private interment will be Riverside National Cemetery on Tuesday, January 10, 2023.   If you’d like to e-mail a special message to the family, please click here.