Thomas R. Bertolino

Thomas R. Bertolino, age 90, passed away December 6, 2025 at home

from general organ failure. He was born June 20, 1935 to Edward (HS

Principal and Coach) and Vivian (Grade school teacher and community

pianist) Bertolino, Nokomis, Illinois. Tom graduated from Nokomis High

School in 1953 and from the University of Illinois in 1958 earning a Master

in Electrical Engineering with High Honors. He met Shirley Clark during

Summer 1957 employment in Chicago. They were married August 23, 1958

and moved to San Diego where he was employed at Astronautics working

on the Atlas and then Centaur missile guidance systems.

His goal to become an educator was met September 1965 as an

engineering and math instructor at Ventura College which continued until

he retired in 2000. Tom then taught part time at the College for 5 more

years, plus tutoring at Holy Cross School.

The second benefit of his teaching was summer vacations with time to take

the family to visit relatives in Illinois, camping, to 4 campuses the 4

summers he won National Science Foundation course scholarships, and to

Scotland in 1980-81 for a year of teaching at Thurso Technical College.

Tom was an active instructor on campus serving on many committees. He

was treasurer of the San Diego chapter of CORE. As other issues arose

over the years, he actively supported many like-minded political

candidates. Tom volunteered at the County Fair, read Scientific Journals,

eagerly attended plays and concerts, enjoyed picnics, a bowl of popcorn,

watched science fiction movies and TV programs, listened to "Prairie Home

Companion" radio shows. He supported his children's sports, music, dance,

club, and school events with never failing attendance, love, and respect.

Tom was an intense forward-thinking environmentalist before the word

came into common lexicon. He saved newspapers early and helped start

the Saturday recycling program at Ventura College, served on the first City

bicycling committee, SOAR, Zero Population Growth, a wizard at repairing

things (especially electric appliances), was frugal with use of water and

utilities, lifetime example in all aspects. Bicycling was his transportation

mode 85% of the time.

Thomas is survived by his life companion of 67 years, Shirley. He has been

a beloved father to his children – Lisa Mueting (William), Jon Bertolino

(Michelle), and Linda Viles (Andrew). He was a role model grandfather to

Tess, Max, Ivan, Nadia, Mackenzie, Taylor, Ryan, Zachary, Emily and Darren

and 4 greatgrandchildren. Tom was proceeded in death by his parents,

sister Barbara and grandson Nicholas. His ashes will be spread with official

sanction at Yosemite National Park by his children.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 16 th at 11:00AM at

the at the BOYKO & REARDON TELEGRAPH ROAD MORTUARY & CREMATION,

15 Teloma Drive, Ventura. The family invites attendees to stay for a catered picnic style

reception in the community room for friends, neighbors, fellow college

instructors and his students to continue the Celebration.

The family wants to acknowledge the loving care given by granddaughter,

Nadia Mueting, the dedicated support of Devoted Care Services, and

Assisted Living Hospice.