Thomas Edward Biestek

Thomas Edward Biestek passed away to be with our Lord on Saturday, October 25, 2025 after a short battle with dementia. He leaves behind a sister, Janet Francis and her children, Joelle, Bill and Carole; step-children: Brenda Marino, Blair Binge, Bruce Binge, daughters-in-law Suzan Binge and Margaret Binge; seven grandchildren: Alana, Brianne, Brendan, Elise, Tessa, Alison and Devin (and their spouses) and fourteen great grandchildren; and many cousins. He was predeceased by his wife of nearly 40 years, Norma, and a partner of 20 years, Louise Cuccaro; as well as a stepson Brad Binge and granddaughter Cheryl Macale.

Tom was born in Meriden on September 26, 1939 and attended "St. Stan's" and public school there. He was proud of his gymnastics abilities and competed through the Falcons winning many medals. After completing high school, he attended Porter School of Design. After graduation he went on to pursue a career as a draftsman, designer and "checker" for many companies such as Pratt and Whitney, Jarvis and finally Sikorsky.

Tom was a good man who worked hard and lived a simple life. He enjoyed fishing (both salt water fresh water, and ice), hunting with his springer spaniel for birds, and gardening and photography (most of all after he became a grandfather).

Like his own grandfather he would plant tomatoes, peppers, beans and whatever he thought would grow well that season. In later years, he planted shrubs and flowers.

He and Norma enjoyed taking their grandchildren to New Hampshire where they had a home on a lake in Tuftonboro. "Grampie" taught them how to fish, how to "tie a fly"; how to pose for a good picture; how to not touch your face or eyes after touching hot peppers in the garden; how to rake leaves into a sheet to cart them away; how to mow the lawn, check the oil in the car and mower... so many useful things! All those good memories stay strong with families!

In later years with Louise he enjoyed some traveling and golf. He continued to photograph wild life wherever he was. He did slide shows of his photos (which he added music to) at local libraries and camera clubs. He lived a full life, and will be truly missed!

Burial and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.