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Thomas LaMonica Obituary

LAMONICA , Thomas P. On September 2, 2010, Thomas Paul LaMonica , of Parkton and owner/founder of Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center & Farm; beloved husband of Jane S. LaMonica; devoted father of Michael Paul LaMonica, Daniel Montgomery LaMonica, Jackie sands LaMonica, Paul Perkins LaMonica & Sara Mae LaMonica; loving son of Doris M. (nee Perkins) and the late Thomas L. LaMonica; cherished grandfather of Taylor Ann, Lyla Perkins & luca James LaMonica; dear brother of Linda L. Monk.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Thomas' name may be made to Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center & Farm, 1717 Rayville Road, Parkton, MD 21120. Arrangements are by the family owned Evans Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services - Monkton, 16924 York Rd. (York & Monkton Rds. - Hereford). Memory tributes may be sent to the family at
www.evansfuneralchapel.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Baltimore Sun on Sep. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas LaMonica

Not sure what to say?





February 2, 2011

To the Lamonica family,
I just read about Tom's passing in the Wooster news magazine, I am so sorry for your loss.
I am one of the fortunate souls of this world to have met Tom at the College of Wooster. It was his senior year and I was an underclassmen who had never seen the game of lacrosse. When I expressed an interest in learning how to play he took his time to teach me. I spent time at the house on College Ave to learn how to repair the old sticks and learn about the game. Thanks to Tom, I fell in love with the game and went on to play on the east coast in the Philadelphia area and with club teams in Ohio.
He was a great teacher and I have not nor will not ever forget his patience and good nature. Thanks to the Lamonica family for sharing him with his College of Wooster family.
Sincerely,
Ron Middleton

Gene Flanagan

October 18, 2010

Dear Jane-
I am sorry to hear about Tom.

September 21, 2010

Dear Lamonica family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Though we didn't know Tom, we have always felt so fortunate to have such a beautiful resource as Gennessee Valley farm in our community and our kids had good times at the camps. We crossed paths at Prettyboy Elementary and we will always remember that the Lamonicas worked for their community. Please find peace and solace in this difficult time.

The Rochowiak family, Freeland, MD

Ron Roberson

September 21, 2010

In my 12 twelve years at Friends School, I always found Tom to be a warm and friendly man of strength, courage and integrity. His loss is a tragedy.

Bianca Roberson

September 21, 2010

I am so, so sorry to hear of your family's loss. As a former student and daughter of a faculty member, I remember Tom very well and appreciate so much how much he gave to his students. Take care and know that he will live on in our hearts and minds.

David Wangerin-Lile

September 18, 2010

Dear Jane, Babe and family:
I am deeply sorry to hear about Tom's death. I can't even believe I am writing this. Even though it has been years since I've been with y'all... you still feel like family and I send you my love and peace. I have so many powerful memories of Genesee Valley... working and planning and dreaming with Tom at Genesee and even at his Friends office... the sharing of Babe's good cooking with Babe and Chief... running around with Jane and little Jackie at the first Earth Day celebration... watching Danny do a bunch of pullups at age ~7 (good genes)... one cow and several sheep falling through the ice and into the pond... having to dry them off... educating staff, helping Tom with farm chores, expanding the center physically and educationally... Tom had a hand in it all and was the key to making it all happen. He was a man of big dreams, a man who put himself out there and took honorable risks, handled significant stress, kept positive and could overcome any obstacle. I'm sure he is missed more than most people can imagine. But we can all be sure that this is one man who had a positive impact on many many people and let's not forget the animals. He left a significant legacy.
Y'all are in my prayers.
David Wangerin-Lile

September 17, 2010

Although its been almost thirty years since I left Baltimore, I keep in touch with some of my friends who are still there. I was shocked to hear of Tommy's death. Back in the sixties I volunteered coached wrestling for Tommy and for several seasons played lacrosse at the farm. I looked upon him as a friend and will surely miss him. Randy Sollenberger, Winter Haven, FL

Randy Sollenberger

September 17, 2010

Although its been almost thirty years since I left Baltimore, I keep in touch with some of my friends who are still there. I was shocked to hear of Tommy's death. Back in the sixties I volunteered coached wrestling for Tommy and for several seasons played lacrosse at the farm. I looked upon him as a friend and will surely miss him.

Susan Batlas

September 12, 2010

On behalf of our daughter, Kate Batlas, we send our prayers to the LaMonica family and the extended family of Genesee Valley. Kate was heartbroken to hear of Mr. LaMonica's sudden death, after having just finished her first summer as a counselor. She is at Colorado State, connecting to her camp friends by FB, and wishing she could be here in person to express her sympathy to the family. What a legacy of love and dedication left to those following behind him.

Bryan Carpenter

September 11, 2010

Dear LaMonica family,
I had the pleasure of wrestling and playing football fro Tom from the time he returned to Friends to coach until I graduated in 1976. I remember how we used to squeeze most of the wrestling team into Tom's green jeep on our way to attend matches. On the football field Tom motivated his players by instilling in us the values of discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship. I remember his warning to us, "Don't run down the field with reckless abandon." This saying proved to be an excellent bit of advice on life in general, and I have recalled his words many times over the years. Tom was a deicated educator, an excellent mentor, and a fine man. I will miss you coach.

September 11, 2010

To the LaMonica family,
We were shocked and saddened to hear the news of Tom. As a family that was lucky enough to enjoy their company, the fruits of the farm and most importantly their friendship, we will miss him greatly. We will always cherish the memories of skating, sledding, swimming, playing lacrosse and teaching Jackie how to ride a motorcycle. During the elementary through the early high school years our daughters spent more time at their farm then they did with us. Many a movie was made by the kids on the trampoline or enacting a popular song. Please know that we are always here for your support.

Love, Michael, Linda, Nicole & Kristina Mester

September 11, 2010

Dear Lamonica Family,

It is not surprising to see the amount of people Coach left a wonderful and lasting impression on. I feel very lucky to have had him in my life.

Tony LePore

Meredith Brothers Jr.

September 10, 2010

My prayers are with the LaMonica family, Tom will truly be missed, but he has definitely left his mark on friends school and all of those that were lucky enough to meet him,

Alec Walen

September 9, 2010

It's been a long time since I've heard the name; I left Friends after 8th grade, and that was in 1979 (31+ years ago). But I am sorry to hear that Tom passed.

I do have a memory that I want to share. I still remember Tom and his farm as the context for the craziest 7th grade trip ever. We were all dropped off, in groups of 8 or so, with nothing but topo-maps and compasses, in the area around his farm. It was the dead of winter. Moreover, the topo-maps did not have north at the top of the page, and though they did indicate where north was, none of us were savvy enough to look. So we wandered lost in the woods, spotting other groups of us in the distance, and following them, though they were as lost as we were. We spent hours this way until we finally circled in on the main barn area... not where we were to go, but better than being lost in the woods. There we were outfitted with our 2-men army pup tents, vintage WWI, and army shovels, I think left over from digging latrines in the Civil War. We were then sent back out into the woods, this time with adequate guidance, to dig spots for our tents out of the six inch deep snow. And then, with the help of some teachers, we built fires and warmed up prior to dinner. That night, many a bright young student put "hot rocks" in his or her sleeping bags to warm them up... rocks taken from the fire. Needless to say, those bags soon had holes in them. And most of us left our boots out to freeze, and couldn't get our feet into them the next morning. Some managed to walk with feet half-way down into their boots to the barn, where they put their boots in front of the jet-like space heater, only to have holes burned in them too. In short, this was a crazy trip. I can't imagine a school running such a trip these days. But for all the mini-disasters, it was Great. I'll never forget it. We learned orienteering--even if we should have learned it BEFORE getting off the buses in the woods; we learned rock-climbing and repelling; we learned bridge building... and other than a few cuts and scrapes, everyone came out alright. It was a can do adventure that I'd be shocked if we don't all remember.

-Alec Walen (3d - 8th grade, in what would have been the class of 83)

Reid Bush

September 9, 2010

Dear Lamonica family,
My heart goes out to you in your time of great loss. I have many fond memories of Tom as a young student at Friends School where I taught biology. Tom was a conscientious student and a super person. He brightened my days as one of the first students at school on many a frigid morning. Great smile, generous heart, beautiful mind. His family was always gracious and accepting of me. I used to take my Little Brother fishing out at the farm. Tom was always a delight; I feel blessed to have known him.

Susan Buckson

September 9, 2010

My condolences to the LaMonica family! My sister Sharon and I attended Friends School and I remember the smiles, the love and the sheer excitement for giving back that Mr. LaMonica shared so freely. I also remember the roster chasing me out of his territory and tipping over in the lake when we went camping...I was out of breath, my ankle was pecked and my hair was a sight that day (smile). Our prayers are with you!
Much love!
Sharon Buckson Stewart '85 and Susan Buckson

September 9, 2010

To all the family, my condolences for your loss. I knew Tom from Wooster College, taught with him at Friends School and visited periodically at the farm. I am struggling with this news as he is a life long friend that I will dearly miss. Donna Seegar-Sedmak (Baltimore, Md)

Ruth Moran

September 9, 2010

Dear LaMonica Family,

I worked on the farm for several years during high school. The LaMonica family was a second family to me and helped me through my tough adolescent years. Tom opened his house to me and those were some of my best summers. You will be remembered.

Sincerely,

September 8, 2010

Jane and Family,

I'm so sorry to hear about your lost. My brother had two sons who wrestled under Tom's leadership. It gave them their first start. One of my nephews went on to become a marshal arts professional (Randy and JJ Holmes). Our family will truly miss his hospitality and friendship.

Sincerely,

Alma Williams

Virginia Reid

September 8, 2010

Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Val sent me the article. Keep the faith. My love.

Virginia Reid.

September 7, 2010

Sincere condolences for the LaMonica family. I remember Coach LaMonica as a fantastic wrestling coach whose favorite drill was the suicide drill...spinning in circles on a fellow wrestlers back until exhaustion. What a delight. He was a superb motivator and I always felt he cared about us not just as athletes, but as young men. It was apparent he was teaching us to have strong character...it has aided all of us who were coached by him. Chris Baughman

September 7, 2010

Paul and family,

Our deepest sympathy, Rich , Laura and Rich Leary

Scott Kalin

September 7, 2010

As the father of two Friends School wrestlers, I and the other parents very much appreciated his stepping forward to coach the high school wrestling team when he really didn't want the job (but no one else would do it). My sincerest condolences are felt for the LaMonica Family, and they will be in our prayers at this difficult time. Tom, you were a truly good man -- go in peace and enjoy your well-earned rest.

Jamie Pitts

September 6, 2010

"Never say die, endeavor to persevere!!!"

It would be impossible capture all that was coach LaMonica in words... I knew him most of my life having gone to Friends for 13 years. Whether we were on the farm camping or on the football field playing, he was always there to encourage us to try our hardest and have fun. He was like a favorite uncle, always there with a dirty joke or funny story. He was an excellent coach, a great mentor and a good Friend. He will be missed! His legacy will live on in the hearts of all the students he knew. I'm sure of it. He had a joy that was impossible to contain and a love of life that was truly infectious. He will be missed! Love you, rest in peace.

Thomas Valkenet

September 6, 2010

I got to know Tom over five years of coaching at Friends School. At first we merely shared stories of our sons' shared experiences at Calvert Hall. I soon learned that Tom was a superb educator and motivator. I never heard him utter a cross word directed at his athletes, just quiet and constant encouragement. He was often the quiet listener as I unburdened after particularly tough practice sessions or games with my own squads. I will miss Tom.

Cam MacLachlan

September 6, 2010

I had the pleasure of rooting for Tom when he played at Friends and to enjoy him as a coach upon his return from college. No one could ever question his devotion to the school or his dedication to teaching others. What I remember most of Tom was his constant energy and drive. "I can't do it" was simply not a phrase his accepted from himself or others. I am very sad to hear of his passing. He will be sorely missed, but the inspiration he gave to so many students and athletes will endure.

anonymous

September 6, 2010

Tom was a good coach, partly because what was most important to him was the kind of human being his players grew into as adults. He seemed to understand that that's what Friends is, or at least should be, about. He helped maintain that focus. He had wisdom and perspective, including perspective enough to laugh at folly when he saw it, and perspective enough to not take himself too seriously. A loss to us all.

AMIRAH LOMAX

September 6, 2010

I'M SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS,GOD ONLY TAKES ANGLES HOME TO BE WITH HIM.TOM IS FLYING HIGH.

Hiawatha & Janice Mugar

September 6, 2010

Dear Jane and Family. We were shocked and saddened to here of Tom's Death. May God be with you in your time of sorrow.

Tom will be missed he was a wonderful inspiring, and influnetual person. I remember talks we had and how he inspired me to take on some difficult challenges on the job. Tom would make me feel as though I could handle anything and I was just as good as anyone at Friends. He even went as faras sitting with me in a faculty meeting put his arm around my sholder, letting everyone know that I Janice Mugar do a wonderful Job. Thamks, Tom.

Jane be blessed. If there is anything Hiawatha and I can do; Please feel free to call.

Missie Opie-Wood

September 6, 2010

To The LaMonica Family,
I am saddened to hear of your loss of Tom. I only had a brief incounter with Tom.He was just a nice man.Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this time.Missie Opie-Wood Parkton,Md

Stuart Hutchins

September 6, 2010

Tom was my wrestling coach, the first season he returned to Friends. I wasn’t a good wrestler, but it didn’t matter. Tom showed us what was important. As spring came he needed some help baling hay for several weekends at the farm. I signed up with another classmate. We worked hard during several Saturdays. I can’t imagine he paid us, but we did get a huge spaghetti meal. Again, it was another chance to challenge ourselves and see what we made of.

Soon the summer lacrosse season came for old Friends alums and various other buddies. As young alums several of us came up during those hot humid summer evenings. We got in while the older guys rested. Tom made sure there was room for everyone.

Several years ago, I brought my son to Genesee to catch a fall ball tournament. Wow, how the cow pasture had changed! All those memories from 30 summers earlier hadn’t.

Tom was behind it all and I am thankful to have known him.

Nick Wilson

September 6, 2010

It is with a heavy heart that I contemplate Coach Lamonica's passing. He provided so much inspiration and so many lessons as a coach.

Billy Rudow '79

September 6, 2010

Dear Jane. I am so sorry for your loss. I am a LaMonican too. I was lucky enough to be coached by Tom for three football and two wrestling seasons. Tom also advised my first quasi business venture Tuxedo Park Products as part of the Friends School business club. Tom taught me, my teammates and business club partners many valuable life lessons; I still use these both on and off the playing field. I helped spread Tom's life lessons on the teams that I coached over the years. Always give it your best ... do not give up ... conditioning (preparation) is key ... you can lose the game (gracefully) and be proud of the manner in which you played. By my measurements, in Tom's game of life, Tom excelled, and won. Tom touched countless young lives and helped many children grow into exceptional adults, leaders, coaches, businesspeople, players and parents. I also grieve that Tom left us so soon. Fortunately, Tom's spirit will continue teaching Tom's life lessons via the Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center & Farm an everlasting gift.

September 6, 2010

Jane and Family:
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's death. We knew him all too briefly from the lacrosse camps at Genesee Valley. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dick & Driss Keidel

Carl Ortman

September 6, 2010

From 1971 to 1981, I worked with Tom as a fellow teacher, coach and friend. He was a constant positive influence for so many boys over those years. I was fortunate to also know Tom as a lacrosse player as we were part of his 10 man Genesee Lacrosse and summer league team. As you can imagine, he was a ball of fire from the opening faceoff to the final gun. I even found him inspiring me to do better. He will be missed by the multitude of lives he touched. Thanks, Tom!

Francesca (Byrd) Reed

September 6, 2010

Tom, my favorite PE man... He could inspire you to do whatever you thought you couldn't and make you smile the whole time doing it. Who else but Tom could inspire me to go to his football camps on more than one occassion, cook for what seemed like an endless amount of sweaty football players, and think it was great fun? Tom of course!
I will always remember the 7th grade camping trip; all the tents blew away that winter but ours. And even though a lot of us went home early sick as dogs he made sure I got a hug and a dose of his pick me up words to turn my perspective into a positive experience. A world class guys who made a difference in a lot of people's lives. Tom was a champion for all students and a friend that will not be forgotten.

George Petrides, Jr.

September 6, 2010

I worked with Tom at Friends for 13 years in the athletic department. He was always the first one I'd go to for advice when things got hectic. He somehow always gave the best advice and managed to do so with a good dose of humor and a smile. We shared many laughs in the weightroom! He will be deeply missed.

David Hill (Friends '84)

September 5, 2010

Coach LaMonica passed away -- a shock to me. I want to assure you his spirit lives on well. I played on two of his football teams and two lacrosse teams. He taught me how to be a young man excelling with purpose, than a child playing games. Play with passion, but remain a good sport. Look to my soul, not the scoreboard, for accomplishment. Finish strong. I cannot attend the memorial service, but will remember him that Saturday in a more practical way, because I will be head coaching my own U15 lacrosse team in the first game of the 2010 fall season. I will dedicate this season to him and aim to instill my players with a sense of continuity from my coach, through me, to them. Perhaps someday that will motivate them to engage personally in preparing young men for the rigors of a competitve world. I can think of little better way to honor him, than actively carry on his tradition. If not for his example and influence, I quite simply would not be coaching. My heart breaks, but ... finish strong.

Josh Salcman

September 5, 2010

My memories of Tom are among the strongest I have of my time at Friends School. He had more of an influence on my overall approach toward life than almost anyone I can remember. My most heartfelt condolences to the extended Lamonica family.

former student

September 5, 2010

Thank you for Genesee Vally.

Carol Coughlin

September 5, 2010

Tom was a wonderful PE teacher. Our children enjoyed having him for PE at Friends school and had the pleasure of attending several weeks of camp at Genessee Valley this summer.
Our sincere condolences to the family for your loss at this very sad time.
Our best, The Coughlin-Griffins

Jim Mayer

September 5, 2010

It was my great fortune to know Tom at Wooster. My only regret is that it was for such a short time.
He was an outstanding athlete,a super person and my fraternity brother.
God Bless Jane and the family.

Jeff Kellogg

September 5, 2010

To the memory of a loyal and remarkably dedicated lacrosse mentor, a roomate for a year, and the personification of a true individual spirit. Tom was also dedicated to contributing to the liberal education of his fraternity brothers in the broadest ways possible - one of the most memorable examples being his formal presentation on the mating sounds of pigeons. A true "one of a kind" who endeared himself to so many in so many ways.

Jack and Barbara Hanlon

September 5, 2010

Our sincere condolence to the La Monica family.

Chuck and Dana Hoffman

September 4, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to Tom's family. It's been 38 years since he was a groomsman in our wedding....although we lost touch, we have both thought of Tom over the years, especially when lacrosse season would come around. The game has certainly grown since Tom started a fledgling team at the College of Wooster and taught Chuck how to play middie with those old wooden sticks. We enjoyed our time spent at Wooster with him.

Karen Capone

September 4, 2010

Tom was a great cousin and a wonderful man. He will be sadly missed by the Capone Family especially at our family gatherings.

Mike Kalisz

September 4, 2010

Dear Jane and the LaMonica Family,

Our deepest sympathy go out to you during this difficult time. All of us at Hereford High School have openly reflected on what a wonderful and caring person Tom was. Please know that while we have lost a true friend and mentor, we have also been so blessed to have Tom in our lives. I first met Tom seventeen years ago and Tom and the LaMonica Family has always been committed to the Hereford community. On behalf of the Hereford High School Athletic Department, Coaches, and most important, the many student/athletes that Tom had such a positive influence on, please accept our most sincere condolences. We are committed to always being there for Paul and Sara while they are enrolled at HHS and will do everything possible to help and support them.

God Bless,
Mike Kalisz

Beau McCaffray

September 4, 2010

Tom graduated from Wooster in the spring of 1971 and returned to Friends to teach that fall. Apparently, one his many successful ventures was to talk me into attending the College of Wooster the following fall of 1972. He could promote! He helped start lacrosse at Wooster, which gives out a lacrosse award in his name.

Tripp Boucher

September 4, 2010

Tom you are awesome!! My life is so much better because you were in it.

September 4, 2010

Dear Lamonica Family,
We are so sorry for your loss Tom was a wonderful teacher that touched many people. He was many students favorite thing about Friends School. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Gallants

Marijke (Rikki) van Gyen

September 4, 2010

Our lives have been enriched knowing Tom...he was a devoted husband, father & grandfather, and wonderful friend with time for everyone. We know how much you loved your family Tom and will forever be grateful that we spent a lot of time with you before you left us. Love to Doris (Pokie), Linda, Jane, Michael & Sonia, Dan & Stephanie, Jackie, Paul, Sarah, and all family & friends. Love always from your Australian family, Marijke (Rikki) van Gyen & James Judd (Darlington, South Australia)

Teresa Hertl-Dittman

September 4, 2010

Tom will always hold a special place in my heart. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Take comfort in knowing that he live his life to the fullest. My thoughts are with your family.

Maria Klein

September 4, 2010

I have been an educator for 20 years now. First an outdoor/adventure educator, then an environmental educator, to expeditionary instructor, classroom teacher and now a mom. I have always said GVOLC and Tom Lamonica started me down that path. Tom knew just how to encourage, just how to push and just how to facilitate individual growth. Over the years, I have placed that same task as a priority in my own teachings. I am forever grateful for sunny days zip-lining into the lake, repelling, jumping off the Pamper Pole and digging holes for the Stump Jump. Tom, you taught me so much! You and your family are in my thoughts.

September 3, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire LaMonica family. Friends School was so enriched with Tom on campus and his loss will be felt for a long, long time. Kathy & Roger Smith

Paul Brady Armstrong

September 3, 2010

Great coach, great motivator, great teacher...loved playing for him, and still treasure the nickname he gave me "Army" Still remember the 6th grade camping trip to his farm, and he remembered me from football and Friends School when I randomly happened to run in to him at Camp Puh'Tok. My best wishes and condolences to Tom's Family. He will be missed. He was one of my favorite teachers in my life- Paul Brady Armstrong

Allisun aka Sunny Baumgartner

September 3, 2010

Jane, Jackie, Paul, Sara, Babe and all of the Lamonica family.
Tom had such a vision in Genesee Valley and I know at times it felt like it may have felt more of a hindernce than anything thing else. However that farm, course, community and your family have made me much of who I am today. A strong willed, hard working, loving woman... not to mention a teacher. Tom's dreams came true in each person who had the pleasure of being part of the GVOLC community. My thoughts are with you during this time. Thank you for all that you have done over the years! All of my love,

September 3, 2010

Take life lessons from Tom and the world will be a better place for him having been here. Our prayers to all the family. Jack and Gail

Charley Case

September 3, 2010

Dear Lamonica Family,

I feel the greatest measure of a man is that he make those around him better. I know I am a better person for having Tom in my life as a coach and friend. I can also say with confidence that EVERYONE who met Tom came away better for the experience. I hope you can find some joy in this sad time knowing the positive influence he had on all of those around him.

Susan (Shorr) Johnston

September 3, 2010

Jane, Mike, Dan, and the rest of the family--My heart goes out to you. What a shock, what a loss--Tom was such a vibrant and happy life force, a positive presence wherever he was. I remember him well from school, from the farm, from "camp". Peace and comfort to you.

September 3, 2010

Jane I am so sorry for your loss ,Mike and Dan be strong. God Bless you all. Meredith Brothers Sr (Baltimore,Md)

FRANK BOND

September 3, 2010

Jane, Tom was a friend and teammate who later showed his confidence in ME in having me as his assistant coach. It was an inspiration to watch him work with the kids, and an education as well. I could fill a page with stories from the football and lacrosse fields and the wrestling room, but those are stories best told by the kids who were in "starring roles".
Doris (Babe of "Chubs/Babe/Pro") the way you opened up your home and your lives to us all when Friends pre-season football camp was FIRST held on Rayville Road was life-changing for all of us. I had the privilege of coming back as a coach AND of playing lacrosse in "COW PIE STADIUM"...AND of producing a feature story on Genessee for WBAL-TV. All the lives touched by the Lamonica family. And Linda came out to see those first two football camps...and Tom took it all to the next level. It's quite a legacy. He's gone too soon, but he left so much!

Tyler Buck

September 3, 2010

Tom was one of the greats. He had a wonderful way of treating students like friends while still commanding respect and deference. That is a very difficult thing for a teacher to do, but he seemed to do it effortlessly. My heartfelt sympathies are with the Lamonica family. Tom was a remarkable and influential man and I am a better person for having known him.

September 3, 2010

"The morning before Tom's death, I was asked to give an account of my most salient memories of Friends School. Tom Lamonica was mentioned in that the same drive he instilled to be a better wrestler is the same drive that I still tap into to be a better surgeon and military officer thirty years later. Thank you, Tom Lamonica." Kenny Wilson (Atlanta, Ga)

Chris Klein

September 3, 2010

I played football and wrestled for Tom Lamonica over 30 years ago. Anyone who played for him knew he was great coach and inspiring figure. My thoughts and prayers to his family.

Russ Drylie

September 3, 2010

To the entire LaMonica family,

Please accept my deepest sympathy. Tom was not only loved by his family, but by the entire Hereford High School community. He was a man that I looked up to and respected.

September 3, 2010

Dear "Babe",
Tom was a dear old friend and an important mentor in my life. I recall fondly my days on the farm w him, you, The Chief, Toots and (Christ Sakes!) Belch.

Deepest sympathy,

Hutch

Vance Cole

September 3, 2010

Jane,
I am so sorry to hear this news. You and your family are in my thoughts and remember I am not far away so if there is anything I can do for you and the kids, just call.

Dawn Eppig

September 3, 2010

Jane & Jackie,
We were so sad to hear about Tom. May God's Love comfort you all at this sad time. Your in our thoughts and prayers. Love to you all!

Craig Dobkin

September 3, 2010

I thank Tom for all the inspiration he gave me. I will miss him on a daily basis and keep using what he taught me.

Donna Gill

September 3, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss. Will hold your family in prayer.
Donna Gill, Balto. Cnty. 4-H

Sharon Beach

September 3, 2010

Our daughter had Mr. LaMonica as a PE teacher in first grade and is sad about his death. As a teacher, I have taken groups of middle schoolers to Genesee Valley and appreciate what the Center and Farm has brought so many of us. He will be missed.

Luke Davis

September 3, 2010

So many e-mails and listings on Facebook have begun only after 24 hours. Not many are able to say they have met someone able to touch so many people in only positive and of course Hilarious ways...Tom was a great Coach, a great Phys Ed teacher, a great TEACHER, and Philosopher...."Spread out! Spread Out! One Grenade would get you all!!"

Shannon Johnson

September 3, 2010

Holding you and your family in the light. Shannon Johnson, Friends School of Baltimore

Diane Roche

September 3, 2010

Jane... you may not remember me but I worked with Sandra Cooley and we handled the group health insurance plan for Genessee Valley. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thought and prayers are with your family.
Diane M. Roche

Donald Squire & family

September 3, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to all the LaMonica family and the GVOLC community.

September 3, 2010

Jane,
Our deepest sympathy to the LaMonica family. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Tom will forever be in our hearts and memories.
Chris, Deb, Erin and Sam Smith

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Thomas LaMonica's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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