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Sponsored by Carl Ciancetta, Tom brother.
67 Entries
Toni Purcell
September 18, 2024
So sad to hear of Tom´s passing. We taught together in Cincinnati and remained good friends.
Grace Lee
March 9, 2015
I was my telling my co-worker about The Zen Blues Band and went to look it up and was sad to hear Tom had passed away. He was my college instructor at COTC and made learning about Cultural Diversity fun and interesting. This was my 1st college class since graduating in 1979 in Honolulu, HI. I will never forget the day in class when he asked me what it was like to go to school in "the 60's" and I felt very ancient at that moment seeing how many of the students were fresh out of high school. I got an "A" in his class and will never forget him.
Teresa
September 18, 2013
I still remember seeing you sitting on the steps of the Newman Center (where we had sat together so many times) on the Sunday after you passed, before I knew we had lost you. I believe you came to say goodbye one last time. Thank you for your love and for your friendship--as we all celebrate your Birth Day in our own way.
Peace and Love, T.
September 17, 2013
Tommy,
Happy Birthday. We still think of you everyday. You will always be missed.
January 16, 2013
Tom always had a warm smile in welcoming this saxophonist to the band when subbing for the regular guy. He was a big part in my
becoming involved in a network of musicians which has helped me to this day. You and your memory are held n many hearts, Tomaso!
Con affetto,
Giovanni
David Friedlander
December 21, 2012
I'm so glad Carl made this permanent.
Tom I think of you a lot. I miss you my friend. I wish we had more time. You lived your life well and touched so many of us.
Cynthia Vallido
December 19, 2012
Tom, I am lighting this candle In memory of you.
You will always be in my heart..
Love and Prayers always...
T
September 18, 2012
Another year has passed. You have missed alot! I know you are still near and enjoying your family. Peace and Love always.
September 17, 2012
Happy Birthday Nonno,
Catch you at Carly's Wedding.
C
September 18, 2011
All of us that love you still keep you so near in a special spot in each of our hearts as we experience that dream where we relive a piece of your life we shared with you; or that fleeting thought that pops into our head when we experience, once again, a memory that has been inspired by a place that we shared, a special tune, a gift we had received or an old picture. You still live within so many of us.....Peace and Love my love...T.
September 17, 2011
Happy Birthday Brother
Peace and Love,
Carl
Ryden Harriott
April 14, 2011
Tom taught a Popular Culture class at the Columbus State Dublin branch in 2008, which is where I first met him. He always seemed to be in a happy mood, and he was also a big advocate for having fun! I'll always remember him for his ever-present smile and good nature.
Adios, Tom.
Teresa Lewis
September 17, 2010
You live in our memories. So many of us who love you are thinking of you today. The lives that were changed because of your birth are endless--in celebration of your birth-- Peace and Love Forever, Teresa
Barbara Chairez
May 11, 2010
I stumbled on the news of Tom’s passing last night and I still can’t believe it. Simply stunning. Although I knew Tom for a relatively short period of time, I feel extremely fortunate I got to meet him at all. Tom was one of the most insightful, sensitive, intelligent, effervescent, engaging, and spirited people I’ve ever had the privilege to be around. Tom approached the world with this amazing child-like wonder and curiosity about everything. Some of my most favorite memories of last year involve Tom, who invited me along on his trips to places I’ve never seen before: Gambier, Yellow Springs, or Kelly’s Island. He knew the beauty of these places and wanted to share it with others. Tom inspired trust and confidence and I will terribly miss the long, involved conversations we used to have; his sharp mind and perception sometimes bordered on clairvoyance. I will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all of those who knew and loved Tom. May he rest in peace.
Sarah Hatcher
April 13, 2010
I like some others had not seen Tom in a while and was just doing a search for him when I came across the news. I am shocked. Tom was a true gift to the musical world and he will be greatly missed. I was honored to share the stage with him for the few years we did. My heart goes out to his family. Tom has definitely made a permanent mark on the central ohio music scene and he will never be forgotten.
Bob Armbruster
March 5, 2010
Tom had called me interested in hearing what my band was up to. We invited him and his Paul Reed Smith over for a few hours of jamming on Santana tunes we all knew, and our original material. After playing an original tune with us Tommy would say "I'd buy that!". Tom was a wonderful guitarist and a very generous man with his time. He will be missed in the Columbus Ohio music scene. Rest in Peace brother.
Claire Cipolaro
January 28, 2010
Tom usually emailed me his gigs, and I was shocked to find the "remembering Tom " link on the ZBB Website. We met many years ago, at Bally's gym; we were both Italian, both counselors, both frequent exercisers. I appreciated his love for life, and great love of music. My husband and I enjoyed coming to hear him play; the last gig we saw him at was in Gahanna.I am sorry I didn't have an opportunity to say goodbye. I am very saddened by this loss and extend my sympathy to his family.
Dave McCombs
January 27, 2010
I've been sitting here for a couple of hours thinking about my old friend. I wipe my eyes but the tears still come. I can't believe it, I'm stunned. You see I have been following the Zen Blues Band in the Alive performance section or like tonight before going to bed at the web site. I had been planning for some time to go see them play. I could tell from the photos that Tom was playing those long Santana sustains and I wanted to hear him do it. I'm just happy he got to play the music he loved.
Tom was one of the first people I met when I moved to Columbus 32 years ago. We shared a love of music; he from the world of rock and blues me from the world of jazz. We listened to music, shared points of view, worked-out, played tennis, played soft-ball, went to see Santana, solved all of the world problems at least once and even lived together twice. I don't remember how or why we shared an apartment the first time but the second time the farm house I shared with three other musicians froze-up in January and I had nowhere to go, so Tom took me in. That was Tom. It was during this time John Lennon died and I remember how dismayed and upset Tom felt. That's how I feel right now. What a good person. I'm sorry for all the time that passed and we didn't get together. I wanted him to meet my daughter and my two border collies and talk about the good old days. The Zen Blues Band was such an appropriate name for a band that Tom would be in, his whole nature was enlightenment, and Zen Lite was the humor. Carl and Judy, I'm so sorry for your loss and you have my deepest sympathy. Carly, I hope to meet you some day. I heard stories about you when you were small. Your Father was a wonderful person and always know that he touched and nurtured many lives in this world.
Jacque Davis
January 25, 2010
I met Tom in Yellow Springs this past summer when the band was playing. He was such a neat, interesting guy and I'm sorry I didn't get to know more about him. He touched many lives, including mine. May God help you through this time of loss. He will be missed.
Beverly Ludwig
January 8, 2010
Mr. C was play cultural diversity teacher.... i attended his last class he ever taught.... when i found out the news recently i cried... surprizingly really really hard because i dont know... there was something about him that ive never seen in a person. so down to earth, so loving, so caring, such a hippy lol but such an incredible person. I went to see his band a few times and man... he loved tghat guitar and he was so good at it. Im so sorry for the family's loss and if anyone EVER needs anything then please contact me. My name is Beverly Ludwig (614)563-9609
R.I.P. Tom... u will ALWAYS be remembered... i promise.
January 7, 2010
Such a tragic loss to lose such an interesting person. I was fortunate enough to be one of his students at COTC and I feel bad that no one else will benefit from his amazing knowledge.
January 7, 2010
All of the students at COTC will miss him horribly
George Anderson
December 30, 2009
I just now heard of Tom's passing, and I like some others am shocked and saddenned. I hadn't seen much of Tom in recent months, but we go back along way and I have many memorable times that I shared with Tom as a musician when we played together over several years.
My deepest Sympathy to Carly and family.
Mary Ellen Johnston
December 29, 2009
This is so overwhelming and difficult. I've known Tom for many years, and am proud to say that he was a good friend. When I heard last night that he had passed away, it was something I couldn't fathom...and actually still can't quite wrap my brain around it. Tom had so many attributes! He was caring, fun, super intelligent, interesting, complex, creative, philosophical and fascinating. He seemed to live life to the fullest, and found joy in every day. He was an amazingly good guitar player, and yet he always remained humble about his talent. To watch him, it was as if the guitar was literally an extension of his body. My birthday was in the first week of December, and Tom gave me a Santana CD (not surprising for those of you that know him, right?) I particularly loved how well he played Carlos' music, and we shared a love of that artist.It's so great to see all of the kind words that have been written about him, and of course I'm not surprised by that.
I'd also like to extend my sympathy to his family. Carly, I met you many years ago, and actually saw you recently at a gig. It appears you're beautiful both inside and out. Your love of animals (especially horses), reflects your sensitivity; a trait that you & your dad shared. Take care of yourself, and know you have many people that will love and support you.
I thank Tom for his wonderful friendship. It has meant so much to me. I know he's playing his heart out in that great, perfect gig up above. I'll have to say goodbye for now...I will miss him forever.
Debbie Conkel
December 29, 2009
Like everyone else in this Guest Book, I was deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's sudden passing...I met Tom through my friend, Mary Ellen, at a singles mixer, of all things, and was immediately struck by his friendliness, sense of humor, flirtatiousness and fun! He was a true original and I liked him right away. Then, I found out he was a stellar musician and founder of the Zen Blues Band. I started going to see them regularly with Mary Ellen, and other friends (the word spread!), and I always loved the music and the various incarnations of the band we experienced. Tom was always friendly, humble, and a pleasure to watch and listen to. In reading some of the other entries in this guest book, I am sturck by the many other attributes and talents of this multi-faceted individual that I knew nothing about, and am even more impressed with his spirit and even more saddened by his sudden passing. His music, good humor, generosity of spirit and love have obviously touched and influenced many, and I will always remember my contact with him over the years. Thank you, Tom, for the gift of your music and much more, that you gave to all of us.
Alfie Cicone
December 27, 2009
When I received word from home of Tommy's death I was in shock. I had just put his Christmas card in the mail and in the card I wrote about getting together soon after the holidays. Tommy was like a big brother to me. I had known him most of my life and while in Steubenville we lived practically next door to each other. When I was just a young kid Tom taught me how to play football. I remember how passionate he was when it came to football. He loved to play the game and it didn't make any difference whether it was a school game or just a pick up game on the street. Tommy played with a highly competitive spirit forcing everyone to raise the level of their game. I will never forget those hard fought games played at the ball field on Thanksgiving day. Likewise I will not forget our lengthy discussions involving the world of politics, music and the Woodstock experience. There is so much I could say about Tommy's influence in my life I could probably write a novel. I will always be extremely grateful knowing I am where I am today because of him. Not only did Tommy encourage me to become a teacher he opened the door for me to move to Columbus and teach with him at Watkins Middle School. I will never forget the impact that he had on my life and my career. I will miss him.
CheChe Battin
December 26, 2009
I have been walking around for nearly a week now repeating aloud to myself "Tommy's gone - Tommy's gone." I still cannot believe it. If it has hit me this hard, then I can only imagine how Carly, Judy, and Carl feel. I was fortunate to be counted amongst his many friends. We go back to 1993. Despite his hectic pace, he always managed to keep in touch with me and continued to entertain me with his stories about his crazy life. His life was a daily adventure. During my dark times, he told me to remember that life is a comedy - not a drama. I will miss him forever as so many others will. It is amazing to think about how many lives one life can touch. I will never ever forget him.
Jan Davison Rich
December 25, 2009
I received a call about Tommy's passing from a mutual friend while I was on vacation this week and missed his services, and I'm so sorry for that. I imagine his service, and obviously this guest book have been filled with so many people whose lives were enriched by knowing Tommy, as mine was. Tommy was my friend for 10 years, and for a few tough years, he was my best friend, although I shared him with many who felt the same way about him. Wow, hard to believe he was taken from us all so early - there was so much more life left in him. Carly, he talked about you with so much pride - you were the love of his life. Few daughters have ever been adored by their fathers like you have been.
Tommy, you have left us, and it's cryin' shame.
David Friedlander
December 24, 2009
I met Tom when he came to Bernie's Bagels to hear a band I was playing in. It was immediately apparent that Tom had a dedicated passion to playing music with the guitar. Tom wanted guitar lessons, so he was my student and this continued for many years. Tom was a quick learner and soon his "lessons" were really just the two of us jamming.
Tom had so much positive energy. He always made me smile and laugh. We always joked around together and being around him was as easy as relaxing with a cool breeze. We transcended "teacher and student" and became real friends. We played pickup football games and eventually were on the same softball team. We won the Gahanna championship together and Tom was our pitcher and a sparkplug of positive energy for the team.
After a time, we formed an electric guitar duo and played out at Moretti's, Worthington Inn and Border's, among some other places I can't recall just now. We called our duo "Live The Blues" because of a standing joke between us. We used to say, "You can't play the blues unless you live it" and that is how the name evolved.
Tom really got his guitar playing going and wanted to expand into a larger group with bass, drums & so on. I wasn't sure about it and later felt bad that I didn't. After a time I called Tom back asking if I could join but my chance had passed.
Tom's band flourished and it was a tribute to his dedication, energy and positive philosophy. Many years passed and since I dropped out of the music scene for awhile, I lost contact with Tom and really everyone from the local music scene.
I began playing again this year and at one of the first gigs there was Tom! He had come out to see me. That was the last time I saw Tom, just a couple of months ago. We had some very warm and sincere feelings from seeing each other, even after so many years had gone by. It was as if all the time just evaporated and there we were, laughing and joking together again. I was looking forward to seeing my old friend and old music partner again and again in the future.
Alas, it is not to be. When I heard of Tom's passing, I was just so shocked. Tom was always into being physically fit and he seemed totally healthy and great when I saw him. It is a tragic loss and I'm saddened and frustrated over never being able to be with him again. My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy go out to his daughter, family and friends. I am so sorry and it just seems wrong that this happened.
I think that Tom is with the angels now, finding ways of helping people in need of a spiritual lift. I know Tom's spirit would love doing that. I miss my friend. Goodbye Tom. I really loved you.
Ron Rapp
December 24, 2009
I am deeply saddened that this world has lost such an amazing person as Tom. He was the most caring and compassionate friend I have ever known. He truly embraced life and shared his love with everyone around him. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to teach with Tom at Perry Middle School in Worthington. As a counselor, Tom loved helping young students find their way. He was a passionate educator, a great musician and a wonderful friend. I will miss you and pray for your daughter and family.
Christine McCann
December 23, 2009
Many moons ago, Tom sent me this "poem" as I was going through a rough time with the loss of my first husband from cancer. I mused today at the funeral that it was based on the lyrics to a Santana song. After futher research...I'm not sure where he got this. Maybe it was his own creation. Either way, Carly, I wanted you to have a copy of this email. I wish I would have brought it to read to you today. Even the message that he includes at the bottom is so fitting. I hope this will bring you some comfort in the midst of the pain. Tom was a beautiful spirit and I truly believe that he was one of those "angels among us" - those "spirits dancing in the flesh" and am forever grateful that he was a part of my life.
From Tom:
"SPIRITS DANCING IN THE FLESH"
WHEN ALL HAS BEEN SAID,
AND WHEN ALL HAS BEEN DONE
WHEN THAT OLD LIFE HAS ENDED,
AND A NEW ONE BEGUN
WHEN THAT SHROUD HAS BEEN GENTLY LIFTED,
AND SORROW CEASES TO BE
THE NIGHT WILL GIVE WAY TO GLORY,
AND WE WILL BEGIN TO SEE
FOR SOMETIME BETWEEN THE BEAUTY OF DAY
AND THE SERENITY OF NIGHT
THERE IS A MAGIC AND JOYOUS MOMENT
WHEN THE SPIRITS DO ALIGHT
AND THEN WE WILL SEE
THE CELEBRATION OF FORGIVENESS,
AND THE TRIUMPH OF LOVE
THE DANCE OF WONDEROUS EXULTATION
BY THE SPIRITS ABOVE
VOICES SINGING,
PRAISES RINGING
A CONVOCATION OF ANGELS
WHOSE SOULS BEGIN TO MESH
AND ALL THE SPIRITS WILL BE REJOICING,
AND DANCING,
DANCING IN THE FLESH
AND THEN WE'LL BE FREE
FREE TO JOIN THE DANCING,
FREE TO LIFT OUR VOICES
TO UNLEASH OUR NEW-FOUND EXISTENCE,
AND TO MAKE OUR NEWFOUND CHOICES
FOR ONLY THEN WILL WE KNOW
WHAT IT IS TO BE TRULY BLESSED,
AS WE BECOME ONE WITH THOSE SPIRITS
ALL DANCING
DANCING IN THE FLESH!
Dear Christine, One of my beliefs that I have never mentioned to you is that there are angels all around us. One only need be open to seeing them, and sensitive to recognizing them. This poem very much reminds me of what you're going through in your life at this time, and in your comments about people coming into our lives at times of need. Most of the time the angels don't come to us with wings and halos, but in the form of regular people, or other living creatures. They are "spirits dancing in the flesh".
I just had to share this with you.
Peace & Love,
Tommy C.
Tommy C. - Peace & Love returned. Thank you for finding favor with me and for all you have shared not only with me but with so many others whose lives you have forever touched. You will be missed, will always be loved, and will never be forgotten.
Joe Dittmar
December 23, 2009
I was very sad to read about the passing of my CCHS classmate, Chunge. We played football together and had some fun times back then. My condolences to Carly and the family. He will be missed.
Christian Culley
December 23, 2009
I met Tom when I was 19 years old. We both worked at a local tavern. Dispite our 19 year age difference we quickly became good friends. I came to rely heavily on his sage counsel, quick whit and soothing personality. He coached me through my "salad days". His most enduring advice to me was "Enjoy the journey and don't worry about the destination"
I am now 43 and still call upon those valuabe life lessons he taught me. You will be missed in body, but will remain in sprit and heart by those of whom had the great pleasure of knowing you.
Much Love,
Christian
Thomas Ciancetta
December 22, 2009
We never met face to face. But the Internet brought our paths together for an obvious reason. I will truly miss our communications and the hope of us meeting. My sincere condolences to Tom's family.
Teri Silver
December 22, 2009
Tom was a good musician and "businessman" with a steady understanding of what it takes to make it all come together. I am shocked and saddened at his passing. Very, very sorry. I hope he is with his "Zen" now.
Teri Silver
Brenda James Posani
December 22, 2009
I am devistated to hear that my good friend Tom, had to leave us so sudden. He was always someone that expressed compassion and love in everything he did. His music was a gift that managed to bring people from all walks of life together and become one! We thank you Tom for your Life, Love, and Lasting impression that you have made on all of us and our lives. Your memory will live on in our hearts and we always be members of THE ZEN BLUES BAND..........FOREVER!
December 22, 2009
I am devistated to hear that my good friend Tom, had to leave us so sudden. He was always someone that expressed compassion and love in everything he did. His music was a gift that managed to bring people from all walks of life together and become one! We thank you Tom for your Life, Love, and Lasting impression that you have made on all of us and our lives. Your memory will live on and we are all members of THE ZEN BLUES BAND..........FOREVER!
Kevin Roley
December 22, 2009
I knew him as Mr. Ciancetta from my senior year 1974-75 at Watkins Memorial High School In Pataskala. He taught the P.O.D. class (Problems of Democracy) in which he gave me straight A's that I likely didn't deserve. I recall that he nicknamed me "Father Figure" probably because I was a serious character with a rather thin beard and a steady girlfriend. Since I, like most teenagers, was so self-absorbed, I didn't realize what an effective teacher/mentor he was until much later in life. I regret not knowing him as an adult. He will not be forgotten.
Cynthia Vallido
December 22, 2009
Tom will always be remembered, he will always be in my heart.I will miss him a lot.
My deepest sympathy, love and prayers goes to you Carly and your family as well. God bless.
MERSADEES BINNS
December 22, 2009
RESOLUTION
December 23, 2009
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. Psalms 116:15
The Music Circle of Central Ohio has once again been broken in the Homegoing of THOMAS JOSPEH CIANCETTA , founder of The Zen Blues Band. Though we will miss the exuberant sound of his guitar will also miss the fellowship with him. We bow in humble submission of God’s Holy Will, remembering He will not forget Tom’s labor of love.
God is His infinite wisdom gave us the gift of memory, and just as time will help to lessen the pain of separation from Tom, precious memories will shower upon you as sweet perfume, as you recall special moments shared. Jesus understands your grief and will not leave you comfortless. He will store your tears of sorrow in his bottle of remembrance as they are precious to Him.
WHEREAS: Almighty God in his wisdom has called THOMAS JOSEPH “TOM” CIANCETTA, a vitality that will not be replaced.
BE IT RESOLVED: That we, Mersadees Binns the band, will honor and cherish the memory of Tom; and extend to Carly, Judy, Carl and The Zen Blues Band our deepest sympathy. We feel a great loss. The world will seem poorer without him. It leaves a void in our hearts.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That this resolution is given to the Family and a copy place on the Legacy website of the Columbus Dispatch.
Done by the order of Mersadees Binns this 23rd day of December 2009.
Jeffrey T. Binns, Sr., Founder Deborah Z. McCoy, Manager
Erin
December 22, 2009
I had the honor of being his student in college and reunited later on in music. He had a big heart for people, animals, life and music. I will never forget him and the compassion he had when my father passed. I know he's rockin out up there.
Eric Cable
December 22, 2009
Even though I had not seen much of Tom recently, I have never forgotten, and never will, the great influence he had on the direction of my life. He was a truly great educator, coach and friend to all who met him. I will miss him.
December 22, 2009
You will be missed by many and so glad that I knew you Love Philly
harry gardner
December 22, 2009
Tom was an excellent middle school PE teacher and a very success ful middle school coach - I enjoyed working with him,playing tennis,and discussing challenges in education. He was a good guy.
December 22, 2009
"Remember, As you move through the days and years of your life, you DO NOT go unnoticed. You leave a trail, an impression, footprints....unquestionable PROOF that you existed.....in the lives of those around you. Do you think you've not made a difference in this world? You have in mine....THANK YOU! Do you want to be remembered by those you've touched?....YOU HAVE!....by sharing love to one person at a time. And that's something, something worth leaving behind.".....Peace Tom, you will remain alive in the memories of ALL those you have touched.....................................Barb(Mansfield)
December 22, 2009
Tommy brought fun, laughter, and most of all, the wonderful sound of his music to our lives. He will be sadly missed and remembered in my prayers every day.
Janet Rife
Vicki Temple
December 22, 2009
Carly and Family, although I didn't know Tom for very long, we always had stimulating conversations. Since I work in the social work field, we always had something to discuss about our society. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Rock on Tom, till we meet again.
Michael Sellaroli
December 21, 2009
To Tom, my best friend of over 50 years, we shared much and lived much through our lives. You will be sadly missed by me.
I will miss your kindness, humor, and your philosophy of life.
You lived your life through your music, your experience and your love of humanity.
I will miss our "debriefings" and our 57 years together, but most of all I will miss what you have done for me. You made me stronger, wiser and better.
You are now in a place where you can watch down on us.
Carly, Carl and Judy, you had a wonderful father and brother. Cherish what he has given us, we will see him again for sure.
The Zen Blues was his mark on this world; he made more then music, he made friends.
Annette Franks
December 21, 2009
I've known Tom for almost 30 years and I can also say he was an incredible man with a huge heart. He was about "doing things for the good of others." He loved life and helping others....He brought joy to all of us...He also had such a Passion for Music and The Zen Blues Band...I loved watching him play...a truly joyful, loving, playful spirit who always brought smiles and joy to others and to those of us who knew him well. He loved his daughter Carly so much and was always so proud of her.....My thoughts and prayers are with you Carly and to your Family. Many Many Blessings to You all. Tom will be forever missed....His light will always shine in my heart.

Tom Jamming
Chuck Lesigonich
December 21, 2009
Tom was my best buddy. I jammed and hung out with him for years. He was one of the most warm-hearted individuals you can meet. Not only would he gladly engage in a conversation with you about music, but if you had any personal problems you wanted to chat about, he was there--every time. I always joked with him about being on the "Zenblues Medical Plan" since I was in the band and that he had no choice but to listen to me! It was funny, and he laughed too. He knew so many people that it was amazing. We'd check out different clubs around town, listening to bands out there, and he would always run into someone he knew, and always go out of his way to introduce me. That's the type of guy he was. He was nice to everyone. Of those numerous times enjoying the scene in and around Columbus, which he loved, I noticed a warm side of Tom that could be overlooked if it weren't for me seeing it occur over and over: Whenever we would pass a homeless person on the street asking for money, EVERYTIME he would stop and give a few bucks to him/her. He would go out of his way to do this, and would usually chat for a little and give a few words of encouragement. It was wonderful! Needless to say, I'm sickened by him being called up so soon, but we can't question what the Man upstairs decides. One thing for sure, many people are going to miss him, from all the kids he taught and counseled over the years in the education system up through the college level, to all his wonderful friends and fellow musicians, and finally to his dear family. Carly, there's nobody that could have been prouder of you than your Dad. I mean it. He talked about you all the time and loved you dearly. Hang in there and continue doing well in your life because that's what your dad would want you to do. I'm certain he will keep watch over you from above. God Bless You and all your family. Chuck
Phyllis Mattes
December 21, 2009
Tom was my best friend I had him as a Professor in two classes always very encouraging as a teacher " fun" always happy You will be missed very much and my prayers go out to your family Phyllis Mattes or as Tom called me Philly
Jeff Allen
December 21, 2009
I currently am the newest memeber of the Zen Blues Band. In the short time i was in the band with Tom, he made me feel as welcome as anyone could. The kind of person he was, was evident in the amount of friends he had, and the way the other band members felt towards him. He was a great guy and everytime i step on stage I will remember Tom.
Jeff Allen
Bass Player
The Zen Blues Band
Daniel "Doc" Gerber
December 21, 2009
I'm glad I was fortunate enough to meet, speak with and play some music with Tom. While I did not know him as well as many, I knew he was a respected member of the community overall, especially beloved by the music community, and a great guy. I can just picture Tom playing that big gig in the sky and loving it like only a true musician could!!! My deepest condolences to family and friends of Tom. Words, even if put to music, would utterly fail to communicate the great sadness of so many at so sudden a passing. The music community mourns the loss of one of our own.
Sabrina Hone
December 21, 2009
Tom brought joy to all who met him through his kindness, his generosity, his music, his knowledge, and his passion for life. He will be greatly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all who had the pleasure and honor of knowing this good, decent man.
~We love you, Tom!
Jan Kinnard
December 21, 2009
We'll miss you, Tommy. You are a gentle soul. We had some great laughs together. My prayers go out to you, Carley.
Cindi Giannamore-Tomastik
December 21, 2009
Tommy was always a fun-living, kind individual. As a relative of his, I recall reunions when we were but children, and even then he displayed talents that would eventually become the fondest memories shared by all who knew him. My prayers are for his brother, sister and daughter. God be with you all!
Karen Kuhlmann/Carr
December 21, 2009
My prayers go out to Carly, and family. Tom touched my soul and he will be profoundly missed. Peace and love is what Tom stood for. May you have that through these difficult times.
Julie Johnson
December 21, 2009
My prayer go out to the many people whose lives were touched not only personally, but professionally through his music and teachings. He will be thought of often through music. May God bless his family and friends, now and always.
julie horton
December 21, 2009
Tom will be missed so much. He has touched so many people and will always be remembered.

Tom and I on miller ferry going to the lakes for a gig..
Donna DeReno
December 21, 2009
My Love, My best friend,I will miss you,I am looking up to the heavens to you and I will be with you some day..FOREVER in my HEART..Donna De Reno
Julie Horton
December 21, 2009
Tom was a close friend of mine and our family. My heart goes out to his family and friends. He touched so many peoples lives and will be missed.
December 21, 2009
Tommy knew how to be a good friend. He had a tremendous influence in the direction of my life. Through Tommy I met my husband with whom I share a wonderful life. Tommy was an encouraging mentor and a protective friend. His loyalty to his committed friendships was demonstrated in the actions he took, often going out of his way to be there for his friends. He loved people, and found each individual interesting in some way. He opened his heart and life to so many. I'll miss him and always remember him fondly, and I'll always be grateful to have been a friend of Tommy Ciancetta. ~Susan Crabtree Blakely
Christine (Keirns) McCann
December 21, 2009
The world lost a wonderful man and an amazing musician. I have many fond memories of Tom and will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to call him a dear friend. You are loved Tom and will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family during this time. You are in my prayers.
Lou Schocken
December 21, 2009
We shared some laughs and good times. I'm going to miss you and your passion for the music....and remember, we are ALL members of the Zen Blues band!
Teresa Lewis
December 21, 2009
My prayers go out to you Carly, Judy, Carl and everyone in the family who grieve the loss of such a wonderful pillar in your family. Peace and Love,
Christina Zarbaugh
December 21, 2009
I hadn't known Tom very long. But the time I did know him he was very kind and sweet. He will be missed deeply by all.
Michael Bisutti
December 21, 2009
Tom was a friend and teacher to me, especially in music, and he was a teacher and football coach to my son. His dedication and drive to have not just a good band but a great band and to make great music for as many folks as he could were his goals. His talent and work ethic were always an inspiration to me and he earned my respect. All those who were entertained by Tom's band knew they got the best when the Zen Blues Band took their last bows.
Showing 1 - 67 of 67 results
Funeral services provided by:
Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home - Pickerington550 Hill Road North, Pickerington, OH 43147

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