Thomas Rush Cruickshanks

Thomas "Tom" Cruickshanks , 84, of East Hartford, peacefully entered into eternal life on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 with his life partner by his side. Born in Hartford, on October 13, 1941, Tom was the son of the late Spencer and Alethea (LaDuke) Cruickshanks and was a lifelong resident of the greater Hartford area. Tom graduated from Granby High School, class of 1959 and continued his education by earning his Associate's degree in Art from the University of Hartford.

Prior to retirement, he was the owner and operator of Master Framers in Bloomfield for 37 years and Pinch Penney Gallery in Essex for 5 years. With a lifelong passion for art, Tom turned his creativity into a successful career. He loved photography and acrylic painting in his free time. In his 20s, Tom was a mechanic and helped run the business at Rocky Hill Transmission. He loved traveling with Jack, especially trips to Australia and Europe. He particularly cherished their annual vacation to Cape Cod in Orleans, MA, and visits to Stonington, CT, where he enjoyed fishing. He was also an avid fan of the UCONN Woman's basketball team.

Tom is survived by his devoted partner of over 50 years, John 'Jack" Lane Jr. of East Hartford, his two brothers Robert Cruickshanks and his wife Patty of North Granby and Donald Cruickshanks and his wife Jeanne of West Suffield, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
A celebration of life for Tom was held on Thursday, January 22 with burial in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford.