Southbridge: Thomas J. Kane, 79, of Fiske St., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Saturday, Jan. 7 ^th , in UMass Memorial-Harrington Hospital, Southbridge, after a brief illness.

He leaves his three children, Christine Kane-Latour and her husband John of Woodstock, CT, Kenneth Kane and his wife Lissa of Southbridge and Kelli Kane of Southbridge; his brother, James E. Kane, Jr. and his wife Judy of Auburn; his four grandchildren, Jared Latour, Ryan Latour, Kayla Kane and Tyler Kane; his two great grandchildren, Collin Irwin and Jaxon Saunders; and his nephew, Matthew Kane and his niece, Mary-Kate Kane; and the Orzech cousins. He was born in Southbridge the son of the late James E. and Wanda A. (Orzech) Kane.

Tom worked as manager of Baker Shoe at Ames Department Store for over 40 years, starting in the Southbridge store and later in the Sturbridge store from which he retired.

Tom was a loyal son dedicated to the care of both his mother and father in their later years. Thomas also had a soft heart for animals; watching over and caring for a stray cat who befriended him. He was also quick to lend a hand almost daily when his daughter's dogs required additional care.

He was an avid outdoorsman, especially enjoying fishing and hunting.  Tom enjoyed gathering with his friends at the former Pete's Spa and later at the Hospital Spa in Southbridge where he loved a good game of chance.

The family would like to thank the nurses and doctors in the ICU at Harrington for their kindness and compassionate care.

A graveside service for Thomas will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 24 ^th , at 12:00 pm in St. Mary's Cemetery, Charlton St., Southbridge.  There are no calling hours.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.