On May 21, 2026, Thomas “Tommy” Madera joined his parents and siblings in heaven.
He courageously chose to live the end of his life spending quality time at home with Norma, his devoted wife of 53 years, and his children Malinda Carrasco and Tom Madera, Jr.; as well as grandchildren Sophia Carrasco and Malia Carrasco, who lovingly assisted him as caretaker.
His sports-loving grandson Lucas spent hours at his side, watching baseball games with him, while his great grandson Ezekiel playfully entertained him.
Eddie Carrasco and Ruben Medina also provided extensive physical and emotional support.
Tommy was born at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital on May 2, 1949. He grew up in old town Goleta, playing baseball in the sandlot on Orange Avenue; winning the green tomato fights against his neighborhood friends in the planted fields off Fairview Avenue; and hanging out at the Goleta Boy’s Club.
He attended Goleta Union School and La Cumbre Jr. High. At San Marcos High School he excelled in sports, competing in basketball and graduated in 1967.
Tommy was drafted into the army in 1969 and completed his military service at Fort Ord, California; Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in the 25th Aux. Unit; and finally in Augsburg, Germany, as an artillery specialist.
Upon his return from military service, Tommy married Norma in 1972 and began his lifetime occupation in the flower industry.
He worked for Groen Rose Co. in sales and distribution of flowers, which led him to networking with local flower distributors as well as the LA Flower Market. When Groen Rose sold their business, Tommy created his own business and continued this line of work until he retired in 2019.
Tommy’s greatest passion was hosting friends and family to his delicious tri-tip back yard barbecues every weekend and holiday.
His many nieces, nephews and friends will always remember and miss these family get-togethers and the delicious food that was always provided by Tommy and Norma.
There was always great music of all types playing in the background, anything from the 50’s era — The Platters, Motown, Santana and all genres of Mexican boleros and rancheras. And, the big screen TV was always there to broadcast all the sports tournaments.
In the last two years, Tommy continued to meet his buddies at The Nugget for his Happy Hour, Tequila Sunrise “to see the sun set.” Aware that he had limited time, he refused to submit to being “sick.”
He bravely and quietly allowed life to just happen and had a peaceful death surrounded by his wife and children. He has taught us all a lesson in acceptance, resignation, and making the best of every moment of life.
Tommy is survived by three sisters and one brother: Oralia Madera, Juan “Johnny” Madera, Dolores Estrada, and Erlinda Vidales.
He was predeceased by his parents Tomas and Teresa Madera; brother Jose Luis Madera; and sister Teresa Condino.
Services will be as follows: a mass at 10 a.m. June 12 at Holy Cross Church, and a happy hour memorial, 3:30-6:30 p.m. at Cody’s Cafe, also on June 12.
Donations can be made to: Hospice of the Central Coast and the Goleta Boys Club. All our gratitude and appreciation to his hospice nurses Jordan and Kelly for their professional compassion and tender loving care.