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Thomas Glasser Obituary
If Thomas Glasser had filled out an occupation form, it would have looked something like this: philosophy major- track star-stand up comic-restaurant owner-bartender-partner at Sandler O'Neill. Mr. Glasser was not a typical Wall Street guy, said his wife, Meg. That was all right with her, because she had an aversion to them until she met him, a moment she said was like time-lapse photography.
"I looked at him and I saw everything," she said. "He walked in the door, and I knew that he was my husband."
By 40, Mr. Glasser had added husband and father to his résumé. He could have also added wallet-rescuer: he earned a do-gooder reputation in high school when he returned a teacher's lost wallet. Years later, he witnessed a robbery and chased the culprit. Again, the wallet was returned.
Mr. Glasser's children, Dylan and Luke, are still a bit too young to appreciate their father's focus on education, but other children are not. Mr. Glasser and his father, Gerald, had for years planned to start a charitable foundation. After Sept. 11, Mr. Glasser's father continued with their plan. The Thomas Glasser Foundation will award scholarship money this year. "I can't think of a better memorial to him," Gerald Glasser said
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on January 20, 2002.
GLASSER-Thomas. Age 40 of Summit, New Jersey lost tragically in the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center, September 11, 2001. Loving husband of Meg, devoted father of Dylan and Lukas. Adored son of Dr. Gerald J. Glasser and Anne Glasser, both of Westfield, New Jersey. Brother of Margie and Laura. Beloved son-inlaw to Dr. Herbert and Barbara Bloom. Loved as a brother by Billy, Heidi, Patricia and Lisa and friend to many. Tom was a graduate of Haverford College, received his MBA from NYU and was a partner at Sandler O'Neill. Tom's generosity, kindness and friendship was an inspiration to all who where privileged to know him. A celebration of Tom's life will be held Saturday, Oct. 6, 2001 at 3:30pm at the Reevs-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave., Summit, New Jersey. Directions and contribution information may be found at: www.sandleroneill.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Cary Goodman
March 23, 2025
It is a long time since September 11, 2001, but I have thought about Tom so many, many times. We knew each other when he was at Haverford, and I attended Bryn Mawr, but we were friends in N.Y.C. during the early 1980's. Tom was a tremendous person, and I will always remember his smile, his warmth, his jokes, his joie de vivre. He "allowed" me to run with him, and I was grateful for that. I am certain that his family misses him every single day. He was a unique soul.
Cary Berliss Goodman
Rich Frey
September 10, 2021
Hello! Tommy... Just checking in. Think about you often, but tomorrow will be 20yrs since you were stolen from us. You are in the Hearts of Many. ❤
Fennelle Miller
September 10, 2021
I’ve been thinking about you all week. You brought out the best in me, and everyone around you. Your intensity was matched only by your wicked sense of humor — and your love of dancing!!! Disco, you will never fade from memory.....
Jill Tocher
September 9, 2021
Ive never forgotten your kindness!!
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Richard Frey
March 18, 2020
Never forgotten, Tommy!
Paul Archer
March 17, 2020
I knew Tom when he was not only the most popular boy in high school, but our Student Body President and Head Cheerleader...always a friend to me, kind of an 'outcast.' Lost touch with him until this moment. Now get out there and show those oafs how it's done!!!
September 15, 2017
I miss you, Tommy...always will. You were always a good friend of mine. Rich Frey
D Glasser
September 14, 2017
God Bless you Tom. You'll never be forgotten.
September 11, 2015
To my friend Tom... Thinking of you today .. Still miss you, I'm sure you're making the lives of those in heaven as great as you made all of ours down here. Love Always, JK
Andy Szabo
July 3, 2015
Tom: I'll miss you forever. Thanks for being my friend. Andy
September 14, 2014
Tom...you and the friends we lost will Always! be in our hearts! Miss ya, pal.
A. P.
September 10, 2014
remembering you on this day
Bob Cameron
June 10, 2014
I am still honoring Thomas and the other victims by wearing a bracelet on my left wrist that is inscribed Thomas I. Glasser. Peace!
Fennelle Miller
February 17, 2014
Has it really been more than 12 years since the fierce light that was Tom Glasser abruptly guttered out? Tom was an influential part of my freshman year at Bryn Mawr College, when I ran track with him at Haverford College. Tom was such an incredible guy - talented in so many arenas, and selfless above all. The year he went to the Macabee Games he still called to check up on me as he was leaving and when he came back. He was a wonderful man, and his family must still have an enormous hole in their hearts.... RIP, Tom. - Fennelle
Maryellen O'Shea
May 1, 2013
I worked for Dr. Glasser at SRI from 1983-1987, and remember meeting Tom at that time as well. I just learned recently of his tragic passing, and wanted to express my deepest sympathy to his family. I am very sorry for your loss, and have nothing but fond memories of both Tom and his father.
Tom and Rick
Emily Schlesinger
September 18, 2012
Dear Tommy,
Your smile could light up even the darkest corners of the field house. That is where you could be found any fall or winter afternoon. You would set up your hurdles in different areas but you were always there, always practicing, always smiling, and always with a red or blue bandanna tied around your head or neck. Were you the whole winter track team, or were there others as dedicated to running as you? You would talk to me as I jogged around the track, shot baskets, or filled the water bottles for the team. What I would give to fill a water bottle for Doug or Calvin now.
I treasure the many conversations we had although I do not remember whether we talked about school, philosophy, or the weather. The memory of you and your friendship live in my heart forever.
Love, Emily
August 13, 2012
I first met Tom when I worked at UBS in NYC. He was an inspiration for me to further my career in the business. Tom always greeted me with a smile and a joke...and always offered me one of his Monti Cristos he was carrying in his shirt pocket. I think of him often, and is always in my thoughts.
Dave Christiansen
September 13, 2011
First met Tom at summer camp(Camp Harmony Warren NJ)in the summer of 1970 thru 1972.After 1972 did not see him till 1977.My High School,North Plainfield played Wardlaw Hartridge in a Basketball scrimmage.It was GREAT to see him again.What stories we had for each other.After that we lost touch with each other.Not seeing him for over 30 yrs i still think about him.Fast forward to last week.I read his name as on of the victims of 9/11.Man,i can't believe this happened.Word's cannot describe what a GREAT person was lost on that day.Even though i haven't seen or talked to him in over 30yrs.It seems like yesterday we were running around at camp.He was a person that once you met,you would never forget him.Tom,my friend i went back to camp this weekend and thru a flower in the Lake at camp.I have many many stories about Tom but,for another time.Take care my friend i'll never forget you.
Christine
September 11, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and children today.
My sincerest condolences. God bless.
mary mcclellan
September 11, 2011
We were at the Westfield Sympony last night where Thomas's son read a beautiful poem with grace and dignity. You touched our hearts and we are grateful for your gift . Thank you. Mary and Tom McClellan ( Westfield,NJ)
Bill McGahan
September 11, 2011
Bill McGahan
Rebecca
May 1, 2011
In 2001 they made silver bracelets to remember the men and women who lost their lives on 911. We randomly received them and I was given Thomas I. Glasser. I still wear the bracelet, and with the news of bin laden, I would like his family and friends to know I will wear it tomorrow in rememberance and now for the justice we have for him and all lost on that tragic day. God bless.
September 11, 2010
Hey Tom.....Wanted you to know that I've been thinking about you....miss you a lot....save me a spot up there near yours.....Love, JK
jeff kreloff
September 11, 2008
Dear Tommy...thinking of you always....tonight a lot more......it sucks without you.......miss you....love you.........forever,JBK
Tom Hasselmann
September 11, 2008
I have checked this guestbook from time to time over the years - remembering Tom who I recall as a young boy in Westfield, NJ. My memory of Tom includes his absolute glee in having a letter he wrote published in MAD magazine. I recall he walked around with that magazine all day showing it to kids in the neighborhood. I wouldnt presume to say that I knew him well, or for long, but it seems he had that effect on people. Nearly 40 years later, I still remember him. It looks like he had become quite a shining star to all who knew him. Please accept my sincere condolences
Candy Lindlaw-Hudson
February 6, 2008
Time passes, but my memories of the boy who was my neighbor and baby-sitting client have not. I was not around to see Tommy flourish and light the lives of his friends and loved ones as an adult. (Florida beckoned.) He was so clever and whitty. His light remains in our hearts.
meg glasser
April 20, 2007
Just discovered that this Guest book existed. Out of the blue, was looking for something on the internet this morning. Jeff Kreloff, please email me if you get this. Thanks Meg
Jeff Kreloff
January 1, 2007
It's been over 5yrs now since 9/11, and a day doesn't go by, that Tom is alone. I think of him often.....sometimes it's a song on the radio....sometimes it might be a problem I'm having at work,and his logic helps me solve it,but today it was about my dad. My dad passed away over 10yrs ago, on New Years Eve....this year, for some reason, the rememberence has been particularly hard for me. I remember when my Dad died....I felt really alone, and many of my friends, weren't too concerned....but Tom never left my side....he knew, I guess, the hard time I was having, even though I never told him....His love and friendship meant more to me than anyone I have ever known, and now my 2 sons are getting to know him too.....thru me...Tom....I miss you, and love you..........Jeff Kreloff
Kristine
November 2, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
October 22, 2006
In memory....
Mark Crawford
September 11, 2006
Tom was a role model to me as a cross-country and track teammate and freshman entering Haverford College in 1981. Over the years he was one of the people I followed in the class notes because of my respect for him and desire to see what course he took in life. I was extremely saddened to see his life cut so tragically short. I know that he had a lasting impact on many people. My heart goes out to his family and friends whom I am sure miss him every day.
Alyce Lee
September 11, 2005
We miss you, we, the friends you touched and made laugh. Thanks, Tom.
Dina Pearlman
November 8, 2002
Meg -- I had no idea until Meredith spoke to Cesca. I'm thinking of you and your boys and my heart goes out to you. Let's talk and maybe hang??
Dina
Charles and Terry Kroloff
October 3, 2002
As we move beyond the first anniversary of 9/11, our thoughts and prayers are with Tom and the Glasser family. May Tom's memory endure as a blessing.
Rabbi Charles A. Kroloff and
Dr. Terry Kroloff
Noah Kroloff and Sarah Kroloff Segal
September 19, 2002
We grew up with Tommy (as we called him then) in Westfield, NJ. Our families were friends and we took a very memorable trip to Israel in the late 1970s with several families, including the Glassers. As the oldest of the kids on the trip, Tommy was a big brother that we looked up to. But more importantly, he was the funniest person on the trip, the originator of most of the private jokes and the leader of the fun which developed. He pretty much looked after us, making sure we were all happy and laughing as we took over the back of the tour bus. He really made the summer for many of us. Whenever we saw Tommy in Westfield in later years, we would be reminded of the fun times we had that summer. Our thoughts are with the Glasser family on this one year anniversary and want all to know how fond our memories are of Tommy.
Larry Bartimer
September 11, 2002
Tom was a funny, loyal, sincere, brilliant, successful human being. I sat next to him at UBS in the late 80s when we were both mortgage securities salemen. He came to my wedding in Minneapolis and was the emcee at a rehearsal dinner for out of towners. He of course, stole the show with his stand-up comedy act. He lived in my building in Manhattan. Every time I thought I knew Tom, he showed another side that made me pause and admire him even more. He was a very unusual person, with a soft side that came out when others were in need. I am a better person for having known Tom in my lifetime. The memorial service held last year confirmed my feelings, as every person who spoke, had the same admiration.
All my best to his extended family.
Mike McCabe
September 11, 2002
Tom was a great friend and mentor. He was instrumental in bringing me to Wall Street in the 1980s. I had the pleasure and amusement of being his co-worker for almost 5 years, and his friend for over 15 years. I will remember Tom for his amazing generosity, sensitivity, humor, and depth. Today, one year after his passing, I would like to extend my condolences to his family. Years from now, I hope his children will be able to believe all the unbelievable things they read and hear about their father and our friend.
Joe Clifton
September 2, 2002
I was only in Tom's company three times, but felt like I was an old friend. I met Tom and his family in Long Beach Island in June 2000. We rented the house next door to him. He treated me to the best days of golf, at his country club, Metedonck National. Tom was the nicest person I have ever met!!!
I think of him everday!
Marion Swan
August 15, 2002
For 3 years I helped organize the Curran Classic for All Hallows High School. We could always count on Tom to support this worthy cause. I will always have fond memories of his generosity.
kevin mccaarthy
April 20, 2002
was interested in donating to the thomas glasser foundation. i would appreciate any information anyone could offer. thank you and god bless thomas and his family.
angels pray for you Tom
Michael Wallace
March 23, 2002
My deepest sympathy goes out to Tom's family in the loss of a very good person/friend. I went to high school with Tom, and have since lost touch with him and most others from high school in NJ. I spent our graduation night at Tom's house in Westfield, NJ with alot of our fellow graduates. Tom was a great guy here on earth, and will continue to be a great guy up in heaven. Michael Wallace
Anonymous
January 26, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN THOMAS I.GLASSER AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY ST.THOMAS MEET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Peter Arian
January 22, 2002
I first met Tommy in 1991 when he was trading MBS at Sandler and I was trading MBS at Freddie Mac. He was a smart, funny guy who valued relationships as much as business. The only thing that mattered more to him than family and friendships were his Cohiba cigars. I knew a lot of people who perished on 9/11, but somehow Tommy's death affected me more than any one else's. He will forever be in my memory.
zach Bruno
January 21, 2002
Eleven years ago Tom was the best man at my uncle's wedding. At the ages of ten and six, my sister and I were two out of four children who were involved in the wedding. During one of the festivities, a hodown, I remember Tom giving my sister and I his toy hat and gun so we could feel more involved. He joked to us about things and took time to talk with us throughout the evening. He is one of the only people I remember from that week because he made us feel part of things. I will always remember his kindness.
Zach Bruno
Debra Goldman
January 21, 2002
Tom did his early morning fitness routine at the gym across the street from the WTC, where I would arrive at 6:45 to start treating physical therapy patients. He was always a warm, happy presence,saying good morning, asking about my child, making a joke. I enjoyed our early morning exchanges and missed him when he switched over to the gym at the WTC. Seeing his picture in yesterday's paper, for the first time, made me very sad. I send heartfelt condolences to his family. A very special spirit, a family man, a funny and caring man is gone.
Mark Vollmer
January 21, 2002
I met Tom at NYU in 1983, and we soon realized that we overlapped at Haverford College. Tom had the combined qualities of being both earnest and also having a good sense of humor - things which I'm sure set him apart on Wall Street. He is someone you'd remember if you met him, and I'm sure it will be a comfort to his family to know that so many people have such fond memories of Tom. Although we did not stay in touch after grad school, he's someone I hoped to see at a reunion, and am saddened that his life was cut short
Liam O'Neill
January 17, 2002
When lilacs last in the dooryard bloom'd,
And the great star early droop'd iun the western sky in the night,
I mourn'd, and yet shall mourn with ever-returning spring.
Ever-returning spring trinity sure to me you bring,
Lilac blooming perennial and drooping star in the west,
And thought of him I love.
- by Walt Whitman, Brooklyn Boy
Robert Meylan
January 11, 2002
Tommy (as I knew him) was my best friend during our first through third grades at Berkeley Heights Elementary School, before my family moved to California. Although over thirty years have gone by, I have very fond memories of Tommy - playing in the snow after school (our back yards were next to each other), going through Cub Scouts together (as I recall Mrs. Glasser was our den mom), watching Speed Racer cartoons down in the Glassers' basement until his mom would kick us out and tell us to go outside to play, and swimming down at the community pool.
As the years have gone by, when I looked at pictures of Tommy in family scrapbooks I wondered whatever became of him. Since September 11, I have read much about Tommy's life, and it is clear to me that he developed into a tremendous person. I have tried to explain to my young son, Andrew - who is now in first grade and the same age as I was when I first met Tommy - about the boy who was my best friend in the first grade. Since then, we have kept Tommy and his family in our prayers, and will continue to do so always.
Teresa Jahn
December 30, 2001
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Thomas. May his life and love live on in those who love him. May you feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of Thomas.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Greg Schmidt
December 9, 2001
My parents have known Tom's parents for years and I always kept up with Tom's accomplishments in track through my father. My sincerest sympathies go out to Mr. and Mrs Glasser and their grandchildren, as well as Tom's wife and her family.
Stev e Wilde
November 30, 2001
Tom and I were classmates at NYU. I did not know him well, but Tom stood out as a fun, very intelligent guy. Full of wonderful energy.
I am deeply, deeply saddened by Tom's death and for the loss his family has suffered.
Christine Tunick
November 26, 2001
I feel like I know everyone from Summit, since I was brought up there, but I don't. I did not know you, but I know that Summit people are all good people. I feel for you in your tragic death, and I feel for your family. I am only 25, and I have never encountered such tragic circumstances, but I know the way I felt that day and still feel now. I hope you and your family are okay. I hope you are with God, and your family can find peace in knowing that you are in a better place.
Cheston Berlin
November 9, 2001
To the family of Tom Glasser: I met Tom nearly 20 years ago when we were introduced by my daughter Jean (Haverford '84). We both ran track at Haverford, and I was privileged to watch him run. I think he approached life as he did running - full tilt with enthusiam and abandon. His loss is a terrible tragedy for all of us. My hope and prayer for his family is that these days of immediate grief will be replaced by the shining memory of one that all hold dear.
Cheston M. Berlin, Jr., M.D.
Haverford '58
Mary White
November 4, 2001
Trinity Episcopal Church
410 North Pine Street
Florence, Alabama 35630
To the Family of Thomas Glasser,
On All Saints Sunday, November 4th, Trinity Episcopal Church held a Blood Drive in memory of all who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Each person who donated chose a name to memorialize by his or her gift. Thomas Glasser was chosen by Tom White, a member of our church. Although we cannot lessen your personal pain and grief over this terrible tragedy, please know that you and your loved one are not forgotten and that we keep you in our hearts and prayers. May God bless you!
Sincerely,
Mary White
Chairman, Outreach
Ira Saferstein
October 29, 2001
I knew Tom at Kidder Peabody where we were both mortgage traders. Although I had not seen him in several years I thought of him often. He was a unique person and always the funniest one at our mortgage dinners.
My deepest sympathies to you and his family.
Ira Saferstein
Melanie Young
October 28, 2001
Tom and I shared a beach house on Lewis Street in Southampton many years ago. He was always the life of the party and we all laughed a lot. I have some terrific pictures from those days when we all were very carefree.
My deepest condolences to his family and especially his wife and children.
Melanie Young
[email protected]
Jerry Byrne
October 12, 2001
Tom was the 1st account I covered when he was just starting out at Lehman Bros. He was a trader, I was his broker....he treated me so very well, we became friends, then lost touch over the years....but I'll always remeber what a good man he was!!!
patricia urquhart spain
October 4, 2001
Tom was a house mate of mine and several lucky others years ago in Southamptom.NY. He was, delightfully, the most popular and admired member of a group of twenty or so. Tom radiated kindness, a brilliant mind and sense of humor that was a delight to all of us. My mother and aunt ( a tough audience!) were absolutely enchanted with him. As we all were. Tom and I didn't keep up as the years passed - such was carefree youth, but he was so magical, such a man of honour and humor I feel blessed to have known him. What a star he was and will forever be. I hope that his family will find comfort in knowing his stellar reputation by even those whose lives he briefly touched. With love and a promise to find pictures to share of a beautiful spirit and man. I know you must be so proud of him - and miss him so.
Patricia
Robert Stanley
September 30, 2001
Our thoughts and prays go out for Tom and his family. Growing up with Tom in the business gave me great oportuinty to get to know this wonderful friend.. you will be missed.
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