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Tomas Garrett-Rosas Obituary

Garrett-Rosas, Tomas Ph.D. January 6, 2013, age 38 years, of Milwaukee. Son of Leonor Rosas, Son of Thomas Edward Garrett, and Stepson of Alejos DeLeon. Beloved husband of Monica Yvette Garrett. Loving brother of Francisco Eduardo (Kimberly) Garrett, Ligia Gaudalupe DeLeon, Bayardo DeJesus DeLeon and Kayleen (Adam) Weaver. Father of Tomas Julian Garrett and Nyia Isabel Torres-Garrett. Step-father of Daniella Bernal, Jade Marie Bernal and Audriana Victoria Bernal. Tomas is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends. Memorial Visitation at the Max A. Sass & Sons Funeral Home on Thursday, January 10, 2013, from 4-7 PM. There will be a further visitation at Congregation of the Great Spirit (1000 W. Lapham Blvd.), on Friday from 10 AM until time of the Memorial Service at 11 AM. Private Interment.

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

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Jan. 9, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Tomas Garrett-Rosas

Not sure what to say?





Hugo Barillas

January 6, 2024

Best of memories with Bro-Z-Bro!

Scott Gelzer

January 3, 2024

Tomas, I never met you that I recall. My loss, I am sure. Your mom and I met on several occasions and discussed our sons and loss. Know that you are dearly missed by family and friends who were lucky to know you.

Karen Moore

January 3, 2022

I still remember Tomas' enthusiasm and dedication to diversity and social justice as a student in my Urban Studies doctoral program with me. I wish the best to his family--especially his parents, his wife, his children, and his step-children.

Mykala Eddington

February 6, 2013

Words cannot express how sad I am that Tomas is no longer with us. I've known him since I was 10 and he played a huge part in my life during my junior high years. We lost touch but I was always happy to hear that he was doing well and that he was acomplishing all of his goals that he had previously talked about doing. His short life is an inspiration. It's shows me there are no limits and that you can do a lot in a short period of time. My prayers continue to go out to his beautiful children Nyia and Tomas. Love you Tommy forever.

Stacy Morrison

January 22, 2013

I am a friend of Alexandra Rosas, and she has shared so many beautiful memories and stories of Tomas in the past weeks. I have been moved to tears many times, and I wanted to come here and give his family my best regards and best wishes. The memory of all he was is not nothing; it is everything, and I hope in time it will give you good comfort and company, as the memory of my loved ones I've lost has been to me. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and Tomas is in my heart.

January 20, 2013

Memorial Page on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tomas-Garrett-Rosas-Memorial-Education-Fund/472391106141699

. .

January 15, 2013

I am so happy to have gotten to know you this summer! You were such a great mentor and helped me throughout all my research. I hope the best for your family!

Scott Gelzer

January 14, 2013

Leonor and family - we returned from a trip outside the U.S. to learn of this very sad event. Please accept our belated condolences regarding this tragedy. We are thinking of you and your family. In talking with Rafael Acevedo, we (my wife and I) realized we worked with Tomas when he was with Public Allies. Between what we knew then, plus what we learned from his proud mother, we know that he was an amazing man with many accomplishments. We hope your good memories of Tomas become a comfort in the hours, days, and weeks ahead.

Karen Kubik

January 14, 2013

I worked with Tomas on many of our PhD projects. It was a pleasure to have known him, he will be missed.

January 14, 2013

Tomás, you are an inspiration. Thank you for all that you gave to this world, we need it. We need more folks like you. You will be remembered, I know it. The work will continue. We will continue to lift our people.

Rebekah Reichhoff

January 14, 2013

Professor Tomas Garrett-Rosas was the best Professor I have ever had. He had such passion in what he taught and his knowledge inspired me. He pushed all of his students to reach their potential, just as he did. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will be remembered by everyone he came in contact with. My prayers are with his family, friends, and students. God Bless!

Michael Rodriguez

January 14, 2013

My condolences to Garrett-Rosas family. I had the honor of meeting Tomas last year at the American Sociological Association meeting in Denver. We talked for hours about social justice, teaching, and research. I remember his passion for change and the love he expressed for his students. He will be missed by the many he touched.

Laura

January 12, 2013

I remember Tomas fondly from Public Allies in Milwaukee. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Maureen Tobin

January 12, 2013

God bless you and you're family during this time of sorrow. My prayers go out to you're family -Maureen Tobin

Delfina Guzman-Estevez

January 12, 2013

Leonor, my prayers continue for you and your family! My heart aches every time I think of your pain in lossing your precious son! God be with you for comforting and soothing your tears! We go back a long time, in the 60's with the marches, civil rights, Spanish Center with Father Maurice and so many other memories that kept us united for The Cause! But now in your pain is when I need for you to know that I am with you! God bless you always!

Together, forever. You're with Abuelita now. Walking in the sunlight among her favorite flower: The Peaceful Lilac.

Adriana Rosas

January 11, 2013

Gladys Griffin

January 11, 2013

Dear Family and Friends of Dr.Tomas Garrett-Rosas,

My prayers are with you through this time of grief. I want to express just how blessed I was to have Dr.Rosas as my professor. I had him this past semester for African American Communities class. I have NEVER had a professor teach with such passion and knowledge of the subject. I could tell instantly that he cared about his job-his work. He was literally, the best professor I have ever had! I am so sorry for your loss. I believe to give honor where it is due, so I honor Dr. Tomas Garrett Rosas on this day. I pray that God blesses you all in abundance and overwhelms you with such a peace.

January 11, 2013

So many lives were apparently positively influenced by him. He will surely be missed.

January 11, 2013

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Mariana Reyes

January 11, 2013

We will miss having you at our family functions, your smiling face, cracking jokes and always dancing to something. I hope you find the peace that you needed! WE love you Tomas! Familia Reyes

January 11, 2013

Dear Leonor:
My prayers are with you and your family.
Shirley Ellis

Dawn Fernandez

January 10, 2013

Tomas....Your Spirit Lives ON through the many lives you changed with your support and kindness; your heartfelt goals to help others succeed and achieve a better life... Your life is a legacy and your spirit a light that will continue to shine upon the paths of all those you've inspired...

You have filled many lives with purpose and joy

Dawn Fernandez

January 10, 2013

I knew Tomas as a mentor during my time in the UWM TRIO Graduate Research Progam. He was always extremely dedicated to reaching his goals and helping everyone else to reach theirs as well. He had a big heart for everyone and a beautiful giving spirit. I am sure God holds him in the light of His love and that his own spirit will live on and continue to bless the many lives he's touched.

Marylisa Ayala

January 10, 2013

Loves never dies
My heart is with you in prayer Lenor and family
Love and healing light Marylisa Victoria and Viviana

Renee Zakhar

January 10, 2013

My heart goes out to Tomas's loved ones; he always spoke of them as his inspiration. We were not in the same cohort, but I knew him as a fellow USP program member, a AOP fellow like myself, and sociologist. Tomas was warm, engaging, funny, and motivating, but always with humility. May he Rest in Peace.

Desere Liddell

January 10, 2013

Tomas, many times we do not understand why things happen, but one thing I do know God is in control. He decided that it was time for his faithful servant to come home to eternal rest! You are in a place where there is no more pain or suffering, a place where peaceful waters flow. We love you, Tomas, more than you'll ever know; you will b missed from this life but know you will forever be with us in our hearts.

Gabriela Reyes-Moreno

January 10, 2013

What we have once enjoyed we can never lose...
All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.
Tommy, we will miss you! I will think of you at family cook-outs playing dominoes and making us laugh. Deepest sympathy to the family. God bless!

Manni

January 10, 2013

I am in great admiration for a man who over came so much and accomplished so much when he was incredibly underestimated at one point. He inspired so many not only with his words but with his actions as well. I will miss him greatly and will continue to struggle with his passing. R.I.P. my brother.

Laura Voith

January 10, 2013

Although you left this world before any of us were ready, the mark you left on each and everyone of us will remain forever.

January 10, 2013

Leonor our prayers are with you and your family, our deepest Condolences

Familia Coria

Sallie and Robert Pettit

January 10, 2013

Leonor,
Our prayers are with you and yours at this time. May Tomas rest in eternal peace. No words can express it. Thinking of you

Jennifer Ward

January 10, 2013

May today and days to come be filled with the wonderful memories of Tomas. He will be missed by many as he has touched many peoples lives. Send my deepest condolences.

Jeanette Kowalik

January 10, 2013

Tomas you will remain in our hearts & our life work. You were a man of the people; this is one of the greatest assignments that one can have in this life. I'm fortunate to have had you in my life & will always cherish the good times, politicin' & achievements. McNair S/S for life! Love & light-

January 10, 2013

Leonor,
My heart, prayers, and thoughts go out to you, your immediate family and extended family. I am deeply saddened by your loss.
Betty

Delfina Guzman Estevez

January 10, 2013

Leonor, my prayers are with you and your family. My deepest condolence. God is our true companion on a time like this! God bless you!

Alexandra/Auntie Sandy Rosas

January 9, 2013

Our lives seem unreal right now.

I'm doing something, and I question if I'm really doing this. Am I actually writing in a guest book for my nephew. Tommy and Frank, to me, felt like my first children. I watched them from my early years on. I have memories, so many memories, that are playing over and over in my head.

I am selfish to use this space for my own pain, rather than telling my sister, Frank Garrett, Tomasito, Nyia, Ligia, Bayardo, Ashley, Cisco,Monica, how very sorry I am in this tremendous loss of his presence in their lives. My pain is deep, my tears are without end, and I feel helpless in his absence from our lives. Tommy had a razor sharp wit, a sense of delivery and timing that drew people to him like a magnet. It's this thought, of how everyone's eyes would light up around him, that has made me smile during this dark week. He never missed a beat, and when he'd walk into a room, you'd notice.

For me, there will be no "new normal," no carrying on with what we had before. I am at a loss, and at the same time, I could write forever of what my precious, beautiful nephew was to me. I spent every weekend with him while my sister worked and went to school. We were more than aunt and nephew. Tommy and Frank were my first children--that's how it will always feel to me.

My heart feels like there is a brick tied around it, and there is a lump in my throat that I can't swallow away.

We are devastated and words are inadequate--the depth of everyone's pain is enormous, and all I can say over and over to my sister and her family, is I am so sorry.

Tommy, I am so sorry you're gone. I love you. I love you. I love you.

Auntie Sandy

Tina Crusan

January 9, 2013

He was a very big part in all of our lives. He will be missed by all of us.

Jennifer Leija

January 9, 2013

I recently had the honor of having Dr. Garrett-Rosas as a teacher for one of my classes this past fall semester. He was such an influential person in my college career and I will never forget his life lessons and career advice. RIP to a very inspirational and influential person, Tomás Garrett-Rosas.

Molly Aviles

January 9, 2013

I am at a loss for words. Love you all , God Bless.

Hugo & Verónica Barillas

January 9, 2013

Tomás was an enormous person. One who could never be replaced. Intelligent, extremely funny, helpful, held his own ground, and stood for justice and what was right. Get togethers will never be the same without his imaginative sense of humor, his quick witted responses, and interesting and well thought conversations. We will be missing that personality that magnified the positive energy of any group. We thank him for being part of our lives.

Karen Moore

January 9, 2013

My heart goes out to your entire family. He was a classmate of mine at UWM and co-worker at UWW though we never found time to get together. I so regret that now. I'm a mother of adult sons too, and cannot even imagine your pain. Tomas is a brilliant light though. I am confident he will shine on in many hearts, with the light reflecting far beyond a distance you can even fathom.... Peace.

Abel Ortiz

January 9, 2013

Our most sincere condolences to the Garrett-Rosas Family. I know there are no words that anyone can say that would lessen your pain. We can only express our sympathy in your loss, and offer prayer to give you the strength. Tomas was the pride of our community.

Sandy Ringer

January 9, 2013

Leonor, my deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Marco H.

January 9, 2013

Tomas was an inspiration and always good for a laugh.My heart goes out to his family.Fiesta Mexicana will never be the same

Themis Flores

January 9, 2013

Blessings for you and yours. May the memories filled your life with the joy of knowing that he was part of your life! My most sincere sympathy!

Cathy Rodriguez-Malave

January 9, 2013

My heartfelt condolences to Tomas's family and many friends. May God give you comfort during these difficult times.

Bernie Gonzalez

January 9, 2013

When someone that has achieved so much and leaves way before its time. It is a tremendous loss not only to our latino community but to society in general.. My condolences and prayers to the family.

Sherri Daniels

January 9, 2013

Dear Leonor,
May God bless you and your family at this difficult time. You are so amazing,I with the Lord's strength you will make it through.

God bless,

Sherri Daniels-Pathfinders

Noelle Chesley

January 9, 2013

The Garrett-Rosas family is in my thoughts during this difficult time. Tomas' passing is a great loss.

Ann Wilson

January 9, 2013

Leonor and family earth has no sorry that heaven cannot heal. My prayers are with you all. Love you girl. Ann Wilson

Carmen Ayala

January 9, 2013

Leonor & Garrett-Rosas family,
My deepest heartfelt condolences. May our merciful God bless you with his strength, fortitude & peace through this time of sorrow. My prayers are with you all...

Carmen Ayala

Carmen Rivera

January 9, 2013

My prayers go out with much love and hugs extended to all the family.

Ventura & Teofila Rivera

January 9, 2013

We are deeply saddened and still in disbelief. Our most heartfelt condolences, may you find comfort in your memories.

George Banda

January 9, 2013

From our Family to Yours, Our Deepest condolences for your loss of Tomas.

George F. Banda and Family

Caitlin Taylor

January 9, 2013

Thank you Tomas for being such an influential Sociologist and role model for my education. The Garrett-Rosas family is my thoughts.

O. Peter Akubeze

January 9, 2013

Please accept my deepest heartfelt condolences. May the Good Lord grant you the strength and fortitude to pull through this difficult time. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Martha Hill

January 9, 2013

My deepest condolences to your familia. May God give them strength during this time. You are truly missed...rest in peace my friend.

Imelda Roman

January 9, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the Garrett-Rosas family. Tomas you will be greatly missed. Leonor you are in my prayers as well as your family.

January 9, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

degamrio

January 9, 2013

r.i.p. bro'zee bro! friend from the old days! degamrio

Samantha Rengstorf

January 9, 2013

Wonderful professor, insightful man, inspirational story.

Ewurama

January 9, 2013

Tomas may God recieve you into His loving abode. You will be missed, Brother!

Benoni Gaud

January 9, 2013

Leonor, siento mucho tu perdida. mi mas sentido pesame para todad la familia. Estaran en mis oraciones. Dios los bendiga siempre.

S R

January 9, 2013

My heart and prayers go out to the family and friends during this time. A loss is never easy but knowing professor just for a short period of time I can only imagine how hard this must be. He was an outstanding professor and made an impact on my life that I will not forget. Wonderful person, insightful teacher, very sad for this loss. Lost my grandfather a while back and this poem said it all....
The Broken Chain

We little knew that morning that

God was going to call your name.

In life we loved you dearly,

in death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you,

you did not go alone,

For part of us went with you,

the day God called you home.

You left us peaceful memories,

your love is still our guide,

And though we cannot see you,

your always at our side.

Our family chain is broken,

and nothing seems the same,

But as God calls us one by one,

the chain will link again.

Sunset

Ana Rodriguez

January 9, 2013

May the Lord guide him to the light, and may he rest in peace. He will always be remebered in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Brenda Rodriguez

January 9, 2013

My deapest condolences to all who held Tomas dear to their hearts which I believe are many! Leonor, we will keep your family in our prayers. May God's Peace be upon you.

Mary Ann Borman

January 9, 2013

Dear Leonor and Family: I was very saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you, your extended family, his family and his many friends. Having lost a child myself I can only begin to understand the depth of your loss. May the memories of his many wonderful accomplishments comfort you all in this difficult time.

Carmen Maysonet

January 9, 2013

My prayers are with Leonor and her family,Blessing.

Silvia Perez-Rathell

January 9, 2013

I am still crying in disbelief, i know the pain i feel can't compare to what his family feels. A wonderful person, son, father, brother, husband, friend and role model to many is gone. May the Lord receive him in his loving arms and until we meet again. My prayers are with the family, Leonor, i love you so much, stay strong and know the Lord is by your side!

Tina Rivera

January 9, 2013

May God bring comfort and peace to the family. I pray for the souls of those that have been left behind. My deepest sympathy to all the family.

Yoli Espino

January 9, 2013

Leonor- i am very sorry for your loss. I pray the loving arms of God wrap around and comfort you during this time.
Tomas- Thank you for being an inspiration to all, even while you silently studied...people were watching.

Veronica Lechuga Mundt

January 9, 2013

My heart goes out to those who are hurting. May Tomas Rest in peace and that his legacy live on. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends....

Maria Cruz

January 9, 2013

"la paz de Dios que sobrepasa todo entendimiento, guardara vuestros corazones y vuestros pensamientos en Cristo Jesus." Filipenses 4:7

Barbara Velez

January 9, 2013

As you know William is in Cuba and does not yet know of this terrible news. He will be so very, very sad. Tomas and his family have been a very important part of our lives. Our hearts will ache for years to come. Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts are with you all.

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