Thomas Petersen

Thomas Petersen our beloved son, husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on Sunday January 25th 2026.

Born in Queens NY, Thomas built a life defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and on unwavering strength. From his earliest days in New MIlford NJ, he would enjoy his childhood with his siblings Jack, Peter, and Mary. His parents Dorothy and Erland were a strong bonded family brought together by their Catholic faith and laughter around the dinner table. Thomas also met the love of his life, our mother Susan. They spent most of their adolescence enjoying life to the fullest.

Thomas spent many years building his career at Verizon, where his dedication and reliability reflected values that he carried through out his life. Again, reflecting back to his younger days he proudly served in the Army National Guard. While he took pride in his career and his time served, nothing meant more to him than his family.

He was the beloved husband to our mother Susan for more than fifty years. Together they built a family that was the center of their worlds. He was a devoted father to his son Brian Petersen, and his two daughters Kristin Trchala and Kimberly Bell. He was the proud grandfather of Olivia, Madelyn, Luke, and Charlotte Bell. Joseph and Thomas Petersen, and Johnny and Julianna Trchala.

Thomas will be remembered as a kind, warm, strong, firm, organized, dedicated man who wore many hats. He was someone that others could always count on.

In early retirement, he embraced the simple joys he loved most. Riding his Harley, sitting by the water, beach days, family gatherings, and shuffling grandchildren around to many events. These moments brought him peace and contentment. Anyone who knew him, could see how deeply he enjoyed this chapter of his life. Warm summer days were spent poolside with our mom, friends, and a couple of grand kids in tow. Grandpa always packed the best snacks, or offered to buy the kids ice cream from the ice cream truck! These were the beautiful memories he made as he enjoyed the slow life at the " Jersey Shore."

Thomas's guidance and steady love will be deeply missed by all who loved him. More importantly by his wife, children, and grandchildren. We will miss him most during future milestones of the grandchildren's lives.

Thomas will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at future date, in the warmer weather just as he would have wanted it. A gathering to share memories and reflections of this tremendous loss we have all endured. We will love and miss you dearly Tom ( Dad) (Grandpa) rest in peace.

Forever and Always,

Your family.