MADISON - Benjamin Thomas “Tom,” “Tommy,” “Ba-na-na” DiSalvo, age 80, of Madison, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025, with his wife by his side at William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital.

Tom was born on April 8, 1945, at the military hospital at Truax Field in Madison, the son of Thomas and Minnie (Lovick) DiSalvo. He graduated from Central High School in 1963 and attended University of Wisconsin-Madison and Madison Area Technical College (MATC), earning an Associate Degree. While at MATC, he volunteered time to student organizations and served on the Student Senate Executive Committee. He was united in marriage to Lesley Ingram on October 24, 1998, at the Edgewater Hotel in Madison.

Tom proudly served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 501, held a trustee position at the Madison Elks Lodge #410, working as the veteran liaison, the Eagles Club #623, the Ciao Club, and treasurer of the Bersaglieri Sicilian Club for many years. In his youth, he was a Boy Scout, achieving the rank of Life Scout, and marched in the drumline of the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps. He generously and selflessly dedicated many years volunteering at the Madison Veterans Hospital. Tom had the privilege of going on the Badger Honor Flight in 2019 with his nephew/guardian John Sheehan.

Tom spent many years in the hospitality industry where his easygoing nature and genuine kindness helped him forge lifelong friendships with colleagues and patrons alike. Beyond his work, Tom found joy in fishing, and he often took annual fishing trips to Canada with family and friends. He nurtured a passion for woodworking and gardening that reflected his patience and care. In the kitchen, he was known as an excellent cook who loved sharing meals. Tom’s presence brought warmth and connection wherever he went, and his great sense of humor and quick wit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Tom is survived by his wife, Lesley; daughter, Beth; grandchildren, Nick and Emily; Lesley’s daughter, Sarah; grandchildren, Daniel, Adam, Emily, Kaitlyn, Ethan; great-grandson, Castiel; sister, Monsine; nephew, John (Brianna); and loyal canine companion, Abby. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Madison Veterans Hospital for all of their wonderful compassion and care given to Tom and his family.

In respecting Tom’s wishes, there will be no funeral.

A celebration of life will be held at the EASTSIDE CLUB, 3735 Monona Drive, Madison, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026. A time of remembrance will begin at 1:30 p.m. and military rites at 3 p.m.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Until we meet again,

“You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

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Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Benjamin "Tom" Thomas DiSalvo

April 08, 1945 - December 05, 2025

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