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Thomas Erbland Obituary

Thomas D. Erbland Tom Erbland could spin a story, wrap you around the words and bring you along until you both came out the other side laughing. He was charming, funny, smart, witty, kind and compassionate. His death at age 57 on Tuesday morning Feb. 23, 2016, leaves an unfillable space. A graduate of McQuaid High School and Ithaca College, Tom touched many lives as a Canandaigua Middle School guidance counselor, a Bristol Mountain ski patroler, a Special Olympics volunteer, a musician and as part of a large community of loving relatives and friends. He leaves behind his beloved sons, Henry and Lucas Erbland; mother, Anne McGhee (Jim); father, Dr. H. Thomas Erbland (Carol); brother, David Erbland (Mary); sisters, Elizabeth Hofmeister (David) and Judy Penders (Steve); ex-wife, Stacey Freed (Jeff Thompson); and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles. Music was his passion, the blues in particular, and Tom played guitar in many bands over the years in Rochester and the Washington, D.C., area where he had lived for 20 years before returning to Pittsford in 2004. To paraphrase B.B. King, there were so many sounds still to be made, so many things Tom hadn't yet done. But his words, his laughter, his music will continue to resonate through all those lucky enough to have known him. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to Special Olympics. All are welcome to join the family in celebrating Tom's life on Thursday, February 25, at 4 p.m. at The Inn on the Lake, 770 S. Main St., Canandaigua, with a reception to follow until 7 p.m.

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Published by Daily Messenger on Feb. 24, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Erbland

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Hal Singer

February 18, 2023

I think often of Tom and the rest of the band. Hey Norton. Tom so easy to work with and he was such a skilled musician with a wonderful voice. I was just going through the band's old photo album the other day and was reminded of all of the fun and many gigs we played. Miss you brother.

Ernie Kirch

February 22, 2022

It's almost six years later and I'm still laughing, smiling, singing, and "styling," influenced by countless memories from years spent around Tom. I still have a Fabulous Rhinestones CD in my car, and still listen to Hey Norton in the studio and LIVE from 219 in Old Town Alexandria. Whether he's here with us or not, it's like he never left because his friendship was so sincere, and the years of fun were so amazing and so lasting. For me, and I'm sure for many others, the spirit of his friendship is still alive and well. May we all be inspired still to this day, to share our love, understanding, and friendship with our friends and loved ones in a way that will last forever, just like Tom was able to do for so many of us. God bless you Tom, and peace be with the Erbland family. - Ernie

Jeffery Anderson

June 11, 2021

Mr. Erbland was my history teacher at Hayfield Middle School in the late 90s..right as he was transitioning to become a counselor. He always had a way to make history fun and cool and I always appreciated his class for that. I am a teacher now, and I often think of Mr. Erbland and the way he was able to connect with his students. I just would like to send my sincere condolences to the family.

Dorothy Howe Kelley

February 19, 2021

Recently came across this pic of us at the STM reunion and saw that today marks the anniversary of your passing. RIP Thom, you are missed by many.

Susan

October 15, 2020

I have been thinking about Tom recently, a friend from such a long time ago. So I googled his name and here I am, sadly. Goodbye Tom. Rest In Peace, sweet soul.

Sue Stone

February 18, 2019

I love all the Erblands! I know the pain of your loss and can assure you Tommy is in the heavenly realm where there is no sorrow just love and unspeakable joy. Lord pour your liquid love into every broken heart and bring total healing.

Bob Ashford

May 17, 2018

We are so saddened to hear about Tom. We used to go see Hey Norton play in the DC area all the time until we moved away 19 years ago. I was curious if Hey Norton was still playing and if I could find out any info on the guitars Tom played, so I googled him, and was shocked to see this. We always had a great time going to see them play, talking with Tom and the rest of the guys.

We are saddened beyond words.

Bob & Donna

Jennifer Barlow ( Bennett)

March 21, 2017

Mr. Erbland,
I know your students miss you still. Especially Micah.. You would be proud of him how he is handling life right now in school. You left a imprint on his life. I pray for your family as does Micah.
Thank you for all you have done for Micah in that short time.

Elaine Gotham

March 20, 2017

Thinking again about Tommy, and the loss felt by his loving family and friends. God bless you, Tommy....love, Baboe

Christine Pan

March 20, 2017

It has been over a year that I had no idea that my dear friend, Tom, has been gone. I am in a state of shock to say the least. He and I counseled together at Hayfield and became fast friends. I remember his way of being able to somehow always find the right words to comfort and get you to laugh. I remember him making me sit in the parking lot for just a minute upon returning from a lunch break so we could listen to JB and Average White Band as he schooled me on the musicians who inspired him. I remember him always being proud of his boys and his unconditional love for them. There are so many good memories with Tom - too many to tell here, but I will keep them in my heart always. I will miss you dearly, my friend. Love you, Tom. May you be at peace.

Paul Zimmerman

July 7, 2016

I knew Tom in the early '80's, when we both played in a blues band called Smokestack Lightnin'.He had great chops and was a hilarious guy to be around! I ran into him again around '06 - '07 at the Clarissa Room at a jam session with Dan Schmidt and the Shadows. We reminisced a bit and told each other how much each had enjoyed playing music with the other back in the day. As it turned out, that was the last time I spoke with him, so I'm very glad to have had that opportunity.He had a fabulous personality and his guitar skills impressed the hell out of me. He definitely raised the musical bar for anyone he was playing with, and he will be sorely missed. Rest Easy My Friend.Paul Zimmerman

Bob Lalasz

March 14, 2016

Liz and I are stunned to hear of Tom's passing. He was a great neighbor and had a rare spark of life. Our deepest condolences to Stacey, their sons, his family and many, many friends. RIP, Tom.

Elaine Gotham

March 12, 2016

Susan Erbland

March 11, 2016

There are no words to express true sympathy. Our dear cousin "Tommy" has left me with so many childhood memories. He was always kind, honestly hilarious and always fun to be around. With our tribe of ~25 cousins you can imagine the early on antics I am so sorry he was in such pain in life but all should know that his aunt Barbara (my Mom) who recently passed, will surely welcome him "Home" with a warm hug and a cold beer! White lights to you, Tommy. Love, Susan (cousin)

March 11, 2016

March 11, 2016

March 2, 2016

Always made us smile at Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria, Virginia.
Maggie Couture

March 2, 2016

March 2, 2016

At the top of Bristol Mtn, taken by Tom

March 2, 2016

March 2, 2016

AWB- One of Tom's favorite groups

March 2, 2016

At the Hard Rock in DC

Hal Singer

February 29, 2016

First Cassette Tape Cover

Hal Singer

February 29, 2016

Hal Singer

February 29, 2016

I will always be grateful to have known Tom and his family and friends. My five years as a member of Hey! Norton gave me an opportunity to play some good music and gain a great deal of experience. I owe that to Tom, who as Charlie always says is, the maestro. He certainly is - you are missed and in my thoughts...Hal

Kathy Posella

February 29, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Erbland family now and always. It was wonderful to reconnect for our Grammer School 40th class reunion at St. Thomas More! 1st grade through 8th grades. What a beautifully written obituary. Thom, you will be missed!

Ellen & Gary

February 28, 2016

Condolences to all ... We are saddened upon hearing the news of Erbsie's passing. Although we are far from home, know that our heavy hearts are with yours.

"He's movin' up, whoa, movin' up in class this time around."

Stephany Scott

February 28, 2016

I wanted to reach out to those who loved and cared for Tom. I'm so very sorry for the pain you feel. Loss is such a difficult journey. Mr. Erbland counseled my sons academically when they were in middle school and I didn't get the chance to thank him in person for his advocacy. Having 2 sons myself, as well as a daughter, I am drawn to the hearts of Tom's boys. May God bless you and keep you. May his face shine upon you and give you peace now and in all of the days to come. May you remember your dad for his love, kindness, and for the difference he made to so many along the path of his life. I will commit to praying for each of you when I pray for my own children each day. I'm sending you love and hope.

Sue Stone and family

February 27, 2016

How beloved is the entire Erbland family as evidenced by the hundreds who came to the celebration of Tommy's life. May God fill every broken heart with His liquid love as we grieve the tragic loss of a man who so profoundly touched all who knew him. Tom and Carol, Jim and Anne, Dave and Mary, Dave and Missy, Steve and Judy and all the grands, we dearly love you.

Chris Forget

February 27, 2016

Always remember Tom as such a fun guy to hang with. Great demeanor. As he would probably say if it were one of us, "bummer man". RIP Erbs

February 26, 2016

Jesus only You can meet the deepest needs of our hearts. Thank you for filling every heart with Your liquid love.

Beth and Robert Rogers

February 26, 2016

What a beautiful and talented human being. Our thoughts go out to all those who knew and loved him. We will have wonderful memories of Tom forever.

Donna Brown White

February 26, 2016

I'm so saddened to hear the news of Tom's passing. I am keeping all of the Erbland family in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to all of you.

Brownie & Barbara Newman

February 25, 2016

Ann, Tom & Carol: Barb and I extend our deepest condolences to you all in the loss of your son Tom.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love, Brownie & Barb

Veronica Dahle

February 25, 2016

Dear Tom and Carol, and Family,
Our Hearts are very saddened for you on the loss of your Son, a very fine Man.
May you find strength and comfort in God's Love and Peace through His understanding care. Memories of those we love remain with us always.
With our deepest sympathy,
Veronica and Stan Dahle
Rochester, NY

February 25, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with the Erbland family and the difficult days ahead. He will be missed by so many and remembered fondly.
Love Jane Napier

February 25, 2016

Our hearts ache for each and every one of you. Tom had huge fans in The Kesselring/Cameron/Napier Clan.

Vanessa Rodriguez

February 25, 2016

Dear Erbland Family,
I had the pleasure of meeting Tom in the late 90's when he lived in the D.C. area. What an amazing person! I will always remember him with that beautiful smile and passion for music. He will be truly missed. You are all in my prayers during this difficult time.

February 25, 2016

February 25, 2016

Elaine Gotham

February 25, 2016

My cousin, Tommy, will be truly missed by the Gotham family, and it is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge his passing. He visited us many, many times over the years, at our family cottages on Canandaigua Lake - he loved being on the lake and spending time with family. He was so very proud of his sons, Henry and Lucas, and loved them very deeply. May you rest in peace, dear Tommy. with much love, Baboe

February 25, 2016

Our prayers are for the entire Erbland family at this time. From all of his fathers friends in Naples, Florida.
Larry & Joyce Linderer

Elizabeth Guthrie

February 25, 2016

Dear Erbland family,

My deepest sympathies to you all. I got to know Tom during these last 2 months and found him to be a wonderful person. I enjoyed our chats about his work with middle school students as I too work with middle school kids. He was a very astute individual. He and I had some great chats about his love for music, especially when it came to playing the Blues. He loved playing this style of music. My thoughts will be will you all during this very sad time.

Richard Houghton

February 25, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with Thom's family and friends. We were truly fortunate to get to reunite with him and our classmates after so many years. He will be missed.

God Bless from Rick and JoAnne

Loved this photo!

February 24, 2016

Nicole and Christopher Casellas

February 24, 2016

Our family will always be grateful for your time and patience given to our son Christopher and we will always recall how you assisted our blended families and supported Chris..he is sad at your passing..your in our prayers..your children are in our prayers

Andrew Woloson

February 24, 2016

Tom: I enjoyed having you as a classmate in grammar school. Almost forty years later I was fortunate to shake your hand and catch up on our lives. You're a remarkable person - Rest in peace.

Robin Springut Parsons

February 24, 2016

Condolences to the Erbland family. I had the pleasure of dating Tom in high school after meeting at dancing school, of all places. He was always a great spirit and full of fun. A real gentleman. I hope he is at peace and playing his music from above.

Jennifer Barlow Micah Bennett

February 24, 2016

Mr. Erbland-- He made a difference with the students at the middle school especially my son. He went above and beyond helping.. Always had a smile on his face anytime you saw him..

From his student Micah-- Mr. Erbland, thank you for making my 6th grade start off good. You helped with my timing problems the first two weeks, helped me by encouraging me. I don't understand - but I know Jesus is hugging you. I wish I could have been able to make you smile. I will miss you Mr. Erbland. I promise to continue to do my best.
Praying for your sons.

Love Micah.

Mary Jane Maher

February 24, 2016

My condolences to all of the family ! I had the pleasure of attending Grades 5 - 8 with him at St. Thomas More School and celebrated our 40th Reunion with him at the Renaissance Apartments in July 2012. He was a great person and will be missed !

Yosepha FREEMAN

February 24, 2016

Stacy and family - I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My thoughts r with u and ur boys in this most difficult time.

February 24, 2016

John & I are so sorry to hear of Tom's death. We all taught together in Virginia in the '90s . Our love and prayers to his entire family and friends.

Debbie & John Sanville

Greg Jackson

February 24, 2016

Rest in peace Tom. Sincere condolences to his family and his many friends.

Billy Weeks

February 24, 2016

I'm so sad to hear this. Tom was a great guy, and always had a positive, and friendly disposition. He was a pleasure to be with on stage, the times I subbed on drums for "Hey Norton". My deepest condolences to the Erbland family, and to all his buds who will miss him.

Tim Wickey

February 24, 2016

Stacey, Henry and Lucas, I am so very sorry to hear this news. I have such great memories of you all - Tom horsing around with the boys,Ben and Lydia, riding his motorcycle and hammering that guitar. My thoughts are with you.

Nancy Yacci

February 24, 2016

Our world has lost a gentle, caring soul. Tom was a gifted listener, counselor, friend, and musician.
Rest in peace my friend.

Phyllis Kurlander Costanza

February 24, 2016

Dear Erbland Family, Tommy was the greatest friend we could ask for and we will all miss him beyond words. We are devastated for this loss and our hearts are broken for his family. But we are so grateful Tommy was in our lives. I am a better person because of him. He was there for us, by our side through the loss of Chuck's mother, through my illness, for our Hootenanies (he was the main act) in Washington, Atlanta, and Vienna. He taught me the funniest dirty jokes, and then laughed every time I retold them. He coached me to sing on stage and even told me I was good (I wasn't). He adored his family and was so proud of Henry and Lucas and how they developed into such happy and caring boys. I feel extraordinarily fortunate to call him my friend and so sad to say good bye. Chuck and I are thinking of all of you and even though we are so far, our hearts are with you.

Lessie Kirch

February 24, 2016

I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. What a nice young man. I am Ernie's Mom and my thoughts and prayers are with your family. Lessie Kirch

Bob & Holly Deitz

February 24, 2016

He touched lives in many other ways...My wife and I met thru Tom's efforts during his years in DC. And although I can't be there Thursday, I am saddened that I will no longer have the chance to hear Tom say "this one is one me.." Our condolences to the Erbland family.

Haas Family

February 24, 2016

Dear Erbland family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that all is going great for you. I know how special he is and I know how you are feeling now. God Bless you.
Best Wishes,
The Haas Family

The McDonough Family

February 24, 2016

Judy and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. The beautiful words written about Tom show what a special person he was. May his soul rest in peace.

February 24, 2016

The only guy at work who actually appreciated my patchouli oil. I will miss our conversations.
Be at peace my friend.

Kevin Boehm

February 24, 2016

I had the pleasure of knowing Tom and working together with him at Bristol Mountain SKI Patrol. We worked side by side in many different situations some intense , but most of them fun. He made me smile and laugh allot. I alsohad the pleasure of cooking with him, Henry and Lucas at Thirsty's. A great family to have shared special moments and laughter with. Going to miss you my friend...

You'll be missed.

February 24, 2016

Sharon Kirch

February 24, 2016

Tom was one of the warmest and friendliest people I've ever met and I know he will be greatly missed by everyone who's lives he touched. My prayers are with his family and loved ones. God Bless. Sharon Kirch

Cathy DeSimone Piciulo

February 24, 2016

To the entire Erbland family, we are so saddened to read of Tom's passing! We have so many great memories of spending every Christmas together when we lived in Pittsford. Please know that your whole family is in our payers. With heartfelt condolences, Marge, Liz, Cathy, Tom and David DeSimone

Susan stetzenmeyer

February 24, 2016

To the Erbland family I am sorry for your loss and ours. I have known him since my oldest who is 23 now was younger. No words can express my deepest thought. God bless

Jeannette Burr

February 24, 2016

Dear Stacey, Lucas, and Henry -- we are so very sorry. You are in our thoughts constantly during this difficult time. What a beautiful obituary, Stacey. What a terrible loss. I have such fond memories of the times when our boys grew up together. Love, Jeannette and family

Linette Drenning

February 24, 2016

Dear Henry, Lucas, Annie & Family,
So saddened to hear this! My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Indeed his words, laughter and music will continue to resonate through us all! Rest in peace my dear friend.

Judith Pryor

February 24, 2016

To Tom's family -- I am so so so sad to hear the news. Please know David and I thinking of you all. You will be in our prayers. With much love and a very heavy heart.

Karen Colgan McCready

February 24, 2016

To the Erbland family: I was saddened to learn of Tommy's passing. My heart goes out to all of you. May he rest in peace. Prayers and thoughts are with you.

February 24, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family, friends and community. Tom was a tremendous force for good in the lives of our two sons. Peace. Deb Massey

Tamara Brister

February 24, 2016

Judy and family -- Thinking of you all during this very difficult time. I enjoyed meeting Tommy at Bristol - so friendly and funny. I know he will be missed beyond words. Heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to you and your entire family from ours.

Bob Scudieri

February 24, 2016

Tom and Carol, Lynn and I want you to know how much we love you both and look forward to some time together when you return to Naples. "And I heard a voice out of heaven saying to me, 'Write: Happy are the dead who in the Lord are dying from this time!' 'Yes, (saith the Spirit,) That they may rest from their labours -- and their works do follow them!" Revelations 14:13

February 24, 2016

My prayers to the family iam shocked and so saddens A very tragic loss to his family and friends. Ann Mohn and family

Roxanne Seftas

February 24, 2016

I loved working with Tom and have missed him since he left Hayfield. My condolences.

David Tronzo

February 24, 2016

My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to the Erbland family. Tom was a very extraordinary man. We played guitars together and laughed ourselves silly. We were blessed to know him.

Derek and Margaret Nicholson

February 24, 2016

Dear Tom and Carol,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of you son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Derek and Margaret Nicholson

February 24, 2016

Missy and Erbland Family, I was saddened to read of your ineffable loss and want to offer my sincere condolences to all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you. JCostanza

February 24, 2016

Tom brought such amazing energy to The Cottage with Hey Norton in our early years! What a great person with kind energy! You will be missed by us all!

Kathleen Lawrence

February 24, 2016

Thom always dazzled with his smile, charmed with his humor, and touched friends with his thoughtfulness. He was the quintessential "good guy" and shall be missed. My sympathies to the extended Erbland family and all his friends near and far.

Herr Kirch

February 24, 2016

To Annie and all the family, my prayers are with you. You know just what I'd say if I could put it into words. God Bless you all, and God Bless Tom. Rest in Peace, DM.

Mark Mohn

February 24, 2016

Tom you will be greatly missed by our family! Your obituary made me wish I had kept in touch all these years. It brings a tears to my eyes knowing now we cannot. Recalling, all the hilarious childhood memories of our youth going fishing to Canada with our Dads. Please know
our hearts and prayers are now with you and your family.
Rest in Peace My old friend

Jennifer Chi

February 24, 2016

My son had Tom as a counselor in middle school and Tom was so understanding and a big help to all of us. He will be missed in the Canandaigua School community.

Mart & Nancy Gullen

February 24, 2016

Sending our thoughts and prayers ......

Pat and Marla Shannon

February 24, 2016

To the entire Erbland family, may knowing you're In the hearts and thoughts of others help you and yours through this time of sorrow. Tom was a fun loving, generous and gifted man. Peace.

Amber Rissew

February 24, 2016

Mr. Erbland was an amazing person and school counselor. He was always there for me and all of his students and listened to us when no one else would. He helped me through a very difficult period in my life and I will be forever grateful. Sending my prayers to his family and children.

February 24, 2016

We love and miss you, Tommy!
-Janet (Erbland) Carpenter

February 24, 2016

Dear Aunt Anne, Uncle Tom, David, Missy and Judy, I am heartbroken- so sad. My mom and Tommy had a great relationship and I picture them together now in heaven. My prayers are with your entire family. Love, Amy (Erbland) Frantz and family

John Vyverberg

February 24, 2016

I'm very saddened by Tom's passing. He was a good customer of ours at Sound Source and when he'd stop we'd talk about skiing,guitars and music.

Dorothy Howe Kelley

February 24, 2016

What a beautifully written obituary that captures Thom's spirit so well.

Laura Philbrick

February 24, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with Tom and his family. He will be missed in our community.

Cindy St George

February 24, 2016

I only knew Tommy for a few years, but he was great fun and so caring. He will be greatly missed. I pray he is resting and has found peace. My heart goes out to all family and friends.

Ann O'Hara

February 24, 2016

My high school buddy, will always cherish our late night talks on my porch on Brunswick St. and DC. Such a beautiful obituary. RIP my friend.

Alan DeVincentis

February 23, 2016

So sorry to hear this. I had the honor of playing with him many times. It is a huge loss. He was the guy we would call for a gig if we got Ina jam many times, and always played like it was the best thing he could do. I will miss him.

Steve Bartolotta

February 23, 2016

I was very saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Tom. He was one of those people whom I was always delighted to see. I was also always impressed with his wit and his tremendous talent. A lot like Lucas and Matt I guess. I will miss you buddy, I wish you peace, and unbelievable music and happiness.

Noah Rodriguez

February 23, 2016

He was my Counselor at Canandaigua last year he was always so nice and saw a future in all of us he could see thins in everyone that they couldn't them selfs. I wish I could be at the celebration but I can't because I have moved to Florida. I will never forget him he was with me every step of the way

Susan Hockenberry

February 23, 2016

Hearts are heavy in my Family tonight. You will be missed greatly.

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