BALESTREIRE THOMAS A. Unexpectedly, on Wednesday, February 10, 2016, Thomas A. Balestreire, age 77, of Ross Twp. Beloved husband of 49 years of Gretchen (Stockdale) Balestreire; father of Anita E. Balestreire of Crofton, MD and the late Andrew J. Balestreire; son of the late Joseph and Lucretia Balestreire; brother of Peter A. (Dolores) Balestreire of Ross Twp. and Dea J. (late Domenic) Riccardi of Shaler Twp.; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends received Saturday and Sunday 2-6 p.m. at SIMONS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 7720 Perry Hwy., Pgh., PA 15237. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Ursula Church, 3937 Kirk Ave., Allison Park, PA 15101 on Monday at 10 a.m. Tom grew up in the produce business on the North Side where he delivered produce since the age of ten years. His strong Italian heritage helped to build a strong work ethic. Tom was a graduate of North Catholic High School and Duquesne University and a member of Alpha Phi Delta fraternity. Tom retired as the Western Regional State Civil Service Commission Manager after 43 years of dedicated service. He was active in the Veterans Leadership Program of WPA, St. Ursula Church as a lector, most recently as a volunteer at Passavant Hospital. He was also an avid bowler. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Veterans Leadership Program of WPA, 2417 E. Carson St., Pgh., PA 15203. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb