Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Thomas Skenderian Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Skenderian
Kelly Naugler
April 11, 2006
Dear Skendarian Family,
I have had the pleasure of working with your Husband and Father for the last 6 years at Newton North High School's post prom event. I considered him a good friend and was so sorry to hear about his passing. Last year he and T.K. worked tirelessly to magically transform our High School with their balloon designs. Tom was exhausted, yet he wouldn't stop till the job was done. I have enjoyed sharing family stories with him over these past years. Having met T.K. last year, I can only imagine how wonderful the rest of the family is. Newton Norths Post Prom Celebration won't be the same without Tom, but I personally have been blessed to have known him.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you,
Kelly Naugler
Chris Lane
April 10, 2006
Dusty and Family, So very, very sorry to learn only yesterday of Tom's passing. I always thought it was most appropriate that he dealt with ballons becasue of his uplifting spirt and continuing happy smile. You have my deepest sympathy. Chris Lane
Carrie Reynolds
April 8, 2006
Dear Dusty and Children,
It's been only a little over 5 years since I met Uncle Tommy but my memories of him will last a lifetime! The strength and courage that shined through him in these recent days were such an inspiration. He truly never suffered; he enjoyed every day he was given to be with his family and friends. I will never forget his smile or any of the "life lessons" he taught me in my visits. I'm grateful that William shares many of Uncle Tommy's qualities!
Love,
Carrie
Elissa Shwartz
April 7, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Tom at the Conventures functions, he was always so positive and humorous. My sympathys.
Arthur DiMartino
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty, TK, Tucker, Tyler, Taylor, Turner, and Tanner,
Please know that we share your loss deeply. Tom’s smile and twinkle in his eyes lives on in his beautiful children! He was a wonderful father and husband who loved you all so much. May the many memories you share be a healing balm at this time of great loss. We are here for you always.
With love and prayers,
Buzz and Susan DiMartino
Jo-Ann & Tom Hanny
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty and Children
We were so shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's death. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With our deepest sympathy
Mike Testa
April 6, 2006
Dusty:
My deepest sympathy;
I will never forget Tom handing me the keys to the Baloon Tycoon truck filled with Baloons at the Disney Event in South Boston telling me he had to go because you were going to have another child!
Suzanne Hanny Russell
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family -
Rick and I are in such shock having just heard that Tom passed away this week. We think of you all often. Tom was such a good person to be around. He always made you feel good. And he was such a great husband and father. He will be sorely missed! It is hard to believe that the smile he always had and the laughs he provided all of us are gone. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you.
Frank Cutietta
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family
I am sorry to hear about your loss.
It is not easy to loose someone who is very dear to you, but they certainly leave a big void in our life.
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.
arnold e amirault
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family,
My heart is heavy to learn of Tom's death.
He was a great, good-natured person, accomplished athlete, "city kid," and soldier.
I knew Tom from the 114th Medical Battalion Mass Army National Guard, several years ago.
We will pray for him and you.
Sincerely,
Arnie Amirault
SFC USAR (Retired)
Capt. Al Circeo
April 6, 2006
Dear Dusty,
Our deepest sympathy to you and the children.
Jane & Jeff Frank
April 6, 2006
Dusty and family,
Tom will be dearly missed. His love of life and his family was always an inspriration to all who knew him. My fondest memory of Tom (besides the balloons) will always be the trip to New York. While downtown we had an hour or so to wait for an appointment and I asked Tom if we could go to the top of the Empire State Building - without hestitation, we were on our way. Traveling to the top - Tom was as excited as I was - it was like he was seeing it for the first time too!
I know the many memories that will be shared within your family over the next several days will help you during this time of loss.
Thomas E. Skenderian
April 5, 2006
Tom at Zion National Park, Utah 2004
Jack, Jake & Kris Kasarjian
April 5, 2006
In the midst of our grief, I call upon everyone to celebrate the life of Thomas Edward Skenderian. His life was tragically cut short by 1/3. The lives of the people he touched deeply will be diminished greatly by this loss for the rest off their lives. He leaves a wife who raised a wonderful family with him. He leaves six incredible children who will be loved and embraced by their family and their large extended family all of their lives. He leaves us all with an empty hole in our hearts which will never be filled. We have had time to grieve as his fight to live ebbed, yet his struggle inspired us. Let us celebrate his life and be thankful for the time we had together. Our lives are better because we knew him.
My cousins, Tom and Don, were more my brothers than cousins. Though we lived half our lives 3,000 miles apart, there wasn’t a week that went by when we didn’t speak. We spoke about the mundane things in our daily lives that appear important at that time but are quickly forgotten. We laughed a lot, an awful lot, we commiserated, but we ultimately focused our conversations on our children. There was not a detail in any of our 8 kids lives that went by without mention and discussion and celebration. He loved his family and his life as much as any man can hope to. He was so proud of the smallest accomplishments of all of the kids, mine included. He reminisced fondly of the times when TK was a toddler with his grandmother watching him grow and couldn’t believe he is a grown man already. He was proud that TK was doing so many good things with his life and was loved and respected by his peers everywhere he goes. He loved his impulsivity and his zeal for life. He spoke all the time of Tucker and the solid consistent caring young man that he’s grown into. He was amazed by his strength and perseverance in school, sports and with his family. He worried very little about Tucker and that gave him great comfort and pride. He saw a lot of himself as a young man in Tyler and wanted so badly for him to realize his gifts and potential and to have the success he will enjoy as he grows. He knows there are bumps in the road but he believes in Tyler’s ability to weather them and come back stronger. His daughters were very special to him. He got the biggest kick out of Taylor playing hockey this year. He asked me to guess of all his kids who was the hockey player and laughed and laughed when his beautiful feminine eldest daughter was the one wearing pads and skates. He loved seeing Turner’s passion for everything she did from her art to her swimming. He felt her love every day and never failed to mention it. His baby girl, Tannie, was always bringing home award after award and competing with all her heart in every sport. She played like a champion without losing her compassion for her fellow classmates. He saw great wonderful things for her future. He spoke of Dusty’s strength and accomplishments with a bit of awe and loved her the life she made for him and their children. He was very proud of her success and the example she set for all 6 kids. He spoke often about the well rounded education the children received and their exposure to all kinds of experiences that make them the special children they have become.
As his children grew, he became the glue that brought and kept the family together. He and Dusty always made sure the family go to be together for special times and just because they enjoyed having everyone around so much. Whether it was in Milton, Weston or the Cape, we all looked forward to seeing all of our family at Tommy and Dusty’s several times every season. We and all of our parents and our children thank them for keeping us intact as a family for all these years with their warmth, generosity and love.
He was a great friend and had great friends. I have known most of his closest friends for 45 years. Ed Sherman is amazing- he was there for Tom for his surgeries, his treatments, his time recovering, his time at the hospice. Bob Welby, Kenny MacDonald, Paul Rogers and a lot of others were there to take him to the hospital, cheer him up, root him on, encourage him and be available at the drop of a hat to help him through these last difficult days. Jack Costello really brightened his days with his fantastic collection of oldies- one of Tom’s passions. No one made him laugh more than Johnny and Rich Rogers. There are so many more great friends that are here today that made Tom’s life so rich. He valued these people in his life like family.
His brother Don, his sisters Midge and Joanna were there to support him through the course of his illness. His parents, Alice and Amy would have be so proud of all of them.
I will miss him so much. He was the one I could always talk to about the things I wouldn’t talk about with anyone else. We shared the joys and the heartaches in life and yet always finished with a laugh, a joke, a tone of optimism for the next battle. His spirit was so strong. He lost the career he wanted so much too early in his life. He lost his parents before he could share with them the life he made and the grandchildren they would have cherished. He lost his battle with life much too soon. He did, however, win the war. He left strong self sufficient children who will miss him but who with thrive with what he taught them. He left friends who truly know the meaning of love and friendship and he leaves a family who will always remember his warmth and compassion.
He fought hard to be there for all those who loved him and needed him. His strength and will and love for his friends and family will always be an inspiration to me. Though the next 30 years of his life on earth was taken away from him, he will always be a strong presence in everyone whose lives he touched. Our hearts go out to Dusty, TK, Tucker, Tyler, Taylor, Turner and Tanner.
Ross, Kerie, and Ryan Musumeci
April 5, 2006
Dear Dusty,
Ross and I were deeply saddened to hear of Tom's passing. We are thinking of you and the children and send our heartfelt condolences. It seems like only yesterday when we first met Tom doing yard work.I loved how he shared stories about my Uncle Gary Lewis being his teacher. He was always smiling, friendly and generous with his time and knowledge. We will miss him. With affection and deep sympathy, we hope that your fond memories of Tom will give you comfort.Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
Ross Kerie and Ryan Musumeci
Bill Keup
April 5, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family -Its a shock to hear of Toms passing.I was a member of the 114th with Tom,and spent many an enjoyable evening in the "mess tent" listening to his barbs and jokes about the military. Perhaps the best skit was Toms unique ability to present to us in the evening his one man band,using pots and pans,ladles and a mophead-what a performance! Tom will always be remembered by the 114th as a gem.Nan and I both send our sympathy to you and your family.
William Reynolds
April 5, 2006
To Aunt Dusty and my cousins: Uncle Tommy was someone I always looked up to. I had tremendous respect for him and I always will. We had many great times together, from mowing Nana's grass in Readville to attending games at Fenway. I try to live my life like he did; with honor and respect. I am so glad he enjoyed the recent championships won by the Patriots and Red Sox.
Love, William
Kathy Hussey-O'Brien
April 5, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family,
I was so saddened that Tom's bright smile has left this world. I always enjoyed seeing him due to his warm and caring nature. No matter the circumstances or task at the Boston Common or Sail Boston, he came thru with a smile. Most of all, I enjoyed hearing him talk of his children. Such joy and love radiated thru his stories about all of you. As a parent, I learned from Tom (and Dusty) to enjoy your children, live life passionately in all you do. Tom will be missed greatly. I wish you comfort and peace in the many amazing times shared thru the years.
Love
Kathy Hussey-O'Brien
Wayne Bogosian
April 5, 2006
Dusty, Don and Family:
Sandy, Whitney, Alex and I send our sympathy and love to you all. We lost one of the good one’s on Monday. Beyond the unhappiness of today are our memories of Tommy. He is one of the few people who lived, laughed and loved every day of his life. We send our love and a wish that the sorrows of the days ahead are more than offset by your memories of better days. We look forward to celebrating Tommy’s life with you.
Bill Crane
April 5, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy. My prayers are with you. I first met Tom at a Brown function when we were high school seniors, and from the first day of Freshman Week we were best of friends: teammates, fraternity brothers, soul mates, and sharers in some great times. He was an usher in my wedding, intoduced me to the Readville crew, and hit some of the longest "moon shots" I ever saw. Gerry Crane, Billy Kane and I are thankful and blessed that we got to see him recently to share some great memories. I'm sure Tom's kids realize what a special, wonderful guy their Dad was.
Jerry Crane
April 5, 2006
Dear Dusty and Family,
I will always cherish the recent time with Tom. I am so thankful to God that we were friends and roommates at Brown. The important thing, it seems to me, is how we handle life's realities, and no one was any better at the "how". He is a great teacher. I love him very much.
Jerry Crane
George Keverian
April 5, 2006
Dear Skenderian Family. Your father and husband was my older brother on many occasions in my life. My cousin left us too soon and I wish I could have been there for him at his last moments. There can never be a replacement for Tom. I truly will miss him and his fun loving spirit. No words can express my feelings right now other than total sadness. We love all of you and hope you can stand up to his legacy of determination and love. We will always be there for all of you. Like I told him at least he got to see the Red Sox win the World Series.
Your Cousin George
Art Fowler
April 4, 2006
Tom was one of the first people I met at Brown when I visited the campus as a sub freshman. He was living in the exclusive neighborhood affectionately known as "Puck Row." "Skinny" took me under his wing and made me feel like part of the hockey "team" and practically a full-fledged resident of Puck Row, myself. His friendly, relaxed, genuine, personality made all those who knew him enjoy his company and particularly his sense of hunor. As I write I am looking at a picture of our Delta Phi fraternity hockey team in which Tom is shown in happier times. With that great big grin of his, that I remember so well, he is watching Jim Fullerton present the Championship trophy to our team. That photo captures the essence of my memories of Tom; a great athlete, a proven winner and genuinely good guy. He will be missed.
Tom Haddad
April 4, 2006
Dear Don and Dusty,
Bobby and I share the sorrow you and your families are experiencing. Richie called this morning Don with the sad news. Although only recent friends Dusty (vs. the 60+ years of the old J.P. gang) the hurt is just the same.
I wish you all peace and comfort in your memories.
Tom Haddad
Jean Aronson
April 4, 2006
Dear Dusty and family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers...Tom was such a gentleman with a beautiful smile....I always enjoyed working with him on the different functions.... As a hospice nurse I can truly understand your ordeal over these past few months....I have learned that there is a total healing and will pray that you all have some peace with his passing.
Sincerely,
Jean Aronson
(Liz Shaw's sister)
Barbara Burns
April 4, 2006
To The Skenderion Family,
Tom's company provided event favors for many of the Filene's store grand openings and the annual Christmas tree lighting. When working these events I always looked forward to seeing Tom...I called him "Mr Sunshine." No matter how busy things got, a warm hello and smile from Tom was like a breath of fresh air. That is how I will always remember him...that wonderful smile. You are in my prayers
Lisann Dillon
April 4, 2006
We will all miss Tommy. He was a true champion..husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and sole mate. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
With love,
Doug, Lisann, Ryan, Kevin, Michael and Kelsey Dillon
Gail Darnell
April 4, 2006
Dusty and Children,
Tom, Lyndsay and I are so sorry to learn of Tom's passing. When I think of Tom the dominant memory is that is he always had a smile...always.
Tom was generous and high-spirited, most certainly one of the nicest people that we have had the privilige of knowing.
If there is anything we may do to ease the pain of this loss, please call.
With deep sympathy,
Gail Darnell and Tom Norton
David Fowler
April 4, 2006
"Skinny" was a bright light at Delta Phi..a big heart, wonderful sense of humor and a true brother. May the many great memories of him by family and friends bring strength to those loved ones left behind
Paul Griffin
April 4, 2006
Dear Dusty,
I am so sorry to hear about Tom! If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Sincerely,
Paul Griffin
Margaret Morton
April 4, 2006
Dusty, Bill and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Please know we are thinking of you at this difficult time. Fondly, Meg Morton
Showing 1 - 31 of 31 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Skenderian's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Skenderian
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.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
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.
Read moreResources 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.
Read more
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.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Skenderian's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
