Thomas D. Rell, 58, of Forestville, N.Y., a native of Newtown, died suddenly March 1, at home, from complications from cancer, with his wife by his side. He was born October 1, 1957, and was a son of Conrad H. Rell and the late Marilyn (Cremin) Rell.Mayaguezat at the Battle of the Koh Tang Island, Cambodia. In May 2010 he was able to attend the 35th anniversary of the Koh Tang Beach Veterans Reunion, in Branson, Mo.

He proudly served his country in the US Marine Corps from 1974 to 1980. On May 15, 1975, his unit participated in the recovery of the SS

Mr Rell enjoyed working around the yard with his Farmall tractor, in the company of his dogs. He always offered a helping hand if you looked like you needed it, or if you just asked him. Most of all he enjoyed every moment he spent with his family, friends, and comrades near and far.

He leaves his wife, Valerie, who loved him dearly and will very much miss him; his father and Peggy Rell of Georgia; his brother John Rell of Florida; his sisters and spouses, Marilyn and Daniel Gudsnuk of Bethlehem, Michelle Crissey of Waterbury, and Jacqueline and Bryan Britto of Southbury; his stepsons and spouses, Jason and Dawn Campello, Anthony and Melissa Campello, and John Campello; and sister-in-law Susan Hawthorn of England. He also leaves numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and numerous stepbrothers and stepsisters. He also leaves behind good friends Tim Burns and JT Gill, who joined the Marines the same day as Mr Rell. His mother; brother Conrad Rell, Jr; and stepmother Shirley Rell predeceased him.

Burial and memorial service will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Koh Tang Beach Veterans, c/o Fred Morris, 298 Grand Boulevard, Evansdale IA 50707 or at www.kohtang.com..