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Steven Girard Tomasini
Steven Girard Tomasini
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Steven Tomasini Obituary
Steve Tomasini (“Stevie”, “TT”, “Esteban”, “Papa”) was known and loved by so many over his 73 adventure-filled years of life. From coast to coast, Steve made an impact everywhere he went. Whether it was teaching children the skills of the wilderness, camping and backpacking with his family or enjoying an IPA while grilling with friends, Steve always shared his passions and extensive knowledge of science, politics, and history with those around him. Cyclist, teacher, advocate for the environment, scientist, storyteller, loyal friend – there are so many hats that Steve wore. However, Steve’s proudest hat was family man and his love and dedication to them was unmatched.
Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019, Steve braved the unknown with immense courage and strength. Regardless of the many obstacles he faced during the journey, he continued experiencing the many adventures that made his life so beautiful. He attended gatherings and visited with friends and even took his daily walk along his favorite path with the beloved family dog, Dottie, until the very end. Steve’s immediate and extended family are eternally grateful to the medical staff at Meriter Hospital, Oak Park Place, Agrace Hospice, and Home Instead Senior Care who worked gently and tirelessly with Steve and provided much comfort for him and his family.
Steve’s traditions, memories, and spirit live on through his “charming bride” of 37 years, Laurie; his son, Dion, with wife, Tianna, and grandchildren, Imogen and Cosmo; and his daughter, Gillian. He leaves behind his large, extended family, as well as a long list of lifetime friends all over the country.
Two events will be held in celebrating Steve’s life - the first on Friday, May 26th, 2023 at 4:30pm at the home of Steve and Laurie in Madison, Wisconsin, and the second in Los Angeles, California, over the upcoming summer at a date to be determined.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Agrace HospiceCare, or an environmental organization of your choosing.
13 Entries
David Weinrot
May 26, 2023
Steve was my cross-country coach and EE teacher at Crossroads. He truly shaped my experience at the School. I am grateful for the work positive impact he had on my life.
Paul Cummins
May 25, 2023
Steve was was a wonderful champion of the environment, of the value of physical fitness, and of education at its best.His impact on Crossroads was and ever shall be profound.
Beverly Shin
May 25, 2023
Steve was amazing, my love for the outdoors started with him and the program at Crossroads. He made such a positive impact on so many students. Thank you Steve for everything you taught us, you made us better people who care for the environment and for that we are so grateful!
May you rest in peace. Our deepest condolences to Steve's family and friends.
Jesse Lainer-Vos, Xrd class of 1995
May 24, 2023
Steve was a formative part of my Crossroads experience. Through Steve, I discovered running and mountaineering-- activities that I would not have been introduced to by my family. I was not a natural athlete, but Steve nurtured these activities and taught me that joy in participation flourishes in effort and attitude, not just talent.
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Tracy Abrams
May 24, 2023
Steve's passing is hard for me to wrap my head around -- he was such a quiet, droll and strong advocate for teens. He made everyone feel supported in their self-discoveries and was the non-anxiety-ridden parent figure I admired. I wish I could have told Steve how much he meant to me and my classmates. I'm hoping he knew how vital his support and humor was for everyone going through the process of growing up. The world and the environment is better off for having had Steve.
Hussun Islam
May 24, 2023
I nothing but the fondest memories of Steve and our environmental trips. From Joshua tree to rock creek...I´m so sorry to hear this news.
Camille Rendal
May 23, 2023
Steve was such a force of life, humor, positive energy, and compassion. My years teaching with him at Crossroads are some of my fondest memories. I did so many environmental ed trips with him, skiing, backpacking, hiking. Steve had such an impact on so many lives. I feel blessed to have known him. My heart and my condolences go out to Laurie and your kids and grandkids, and family.
Sydney Croskery
May 23, 2023
Steve Tomasini was such a huge part of making my teenage high school years wonderful. Kind and hilarious, his program of Outdoor Education taught us all how to leave the chaos of the city and rely on nature and friendship for our joy. The many memories from OE were among my best from high school.
To the family of this wonderful and impactful man, my sincerest condolences go out to you.
Paul Atkinson (ULS)
May 23, 2023
Steve was such a great man. I, along with many, many others, worked alongside him as a school colleague. He was always student-focused and loved the kids. Not only was Steve a great science teacher who instilled in his students a love of nature and an appreciation for their role as stewards of the Earth, but also he was a father figure to all. People looked up to and respected Steve. They trusted his opinions and guidance. He will be sorely missed but always remembered. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and loved ones. Much love to you!
Heather Murdock
May 23, 2023
Steve was such an inspiration to me and one of my heroes growing up. I went to Crossroads and was so fortunate to have him as a teacher from the ages of 12 to 18. I loved all the environmental education trips that he took us on - snorkeling off of Catalina Island, biking from Santa Barbara to LA, learning to rock climb in Joshua Tree and kayak at Lake Isabella, climbing Mt Whitney, and then he agreed to mentor my senior project trip to climb Half Dome in Yosemite! He was an amazing advocate for the environment, fun, funny, generous with his time, passionate about teaching and instilling a love for the environment, and he truly loved his family so much. I still remember the day he told us about his baby daughter Gillian with so much pride and joy. Sending my deepest condolences to all of his family, friends and students - we are all better for knowing and learning from Steve. I teach conservation biology and take my students on environmental trips because of Steve (leaving for Costa Rica on the day of his memorial) so Steve....your legacy continues in so many ways! Sending lots of love, Heather Murdock, Crossroads '88, SFSU Biology Lecturer
Jill frankel
May 22, 2023
Steve taught me so many important life lessons- Tomasini Rules as he called them. My favorite- take your coat/sweater off when you come inside - you will have something to keep you warm when you go outside.
Tomasini was my teacher at the CEE and again at Crossroads. I learned so much about myself at such a young age because Steve gave me the space to grow- and when appropriate, he gave me the space to fail- and then helped me to my feet to move forward.
Such a gentle, special soul. He will be missed.
May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
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2810 Crossroads Drive Suite 4000, Madison, WI 53718
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