Thomas A. Valerian

Thomas A. Valerian of Mentor, Ohio, died Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 77.He was born in Cleveland June 13, 1948 to Amerigo “Mitty” and Grace Valerian. Tom grew up playing baseball and basketball at Gesu School in University Heights. As a 6th grader, he won the CYO city-wide foul shooting contest. His little league coach was Hall of Famer Bob Feller. Tom quickly became a stand-out pitcher with a wicked curveball. He loved coaching and sharing his pitching knowledge.He graduated from St. Ignatius High School and went on to St. Edwards University in Texas where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Throughout his life he was an avid Indians (Guardians), Yankees, Brewers, Browns, Packer and Cavaliers fan.He is survived by his sister, Laraine (Michael) O’Brien, Waukesha, Wisconsin, his brother, William (Diane) Valerian, nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews and 2 great grand nephews.A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, July 8, at Gesu Church, 2470 Miramar Blvd., University Heights, with visitation at 10:30 am, Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in the chapel, followed by lunch in McAuley Hall.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donation to a charity of your choice.