Thomas Tomaro

Tom at North Lake in 2017 with samples of glaze fired bowls and cups. Beautiful work and beautiful person. Marty

Tom was my student, my ceramic assistant at North Lake College and a friend. He loved making pots on the wheel and loved even more helping others in the class. I had the privilege to teach both Tom and his wife Binnie in my classes, however Tom was also my teacher. Sharing his knowledge and skills with glazing and throwing large wheel pots. I believe Binnie talked Tom into taking ceramics and then he got hooked! He was in classes with me at North Lake for my time there of 40 years. What a special person Tom was to me and so many others. I know many current students at North Lake are very saddened by his passing. Here are some photos of Tom I've found, always having fun with clay and always a smile. Rest in Peace dear Tom. Marty

Tom was a beloved fellow potter at North Lake Collage ceramics program. The first thoughts that come to mind are his smile and his great ceramic bowls! He was always helpful and generous. For several Christmas critique/ pot luck events, he knitted winter scarves for everyone. He is missed.

I was a nontraditional student at Northlake Community College in the Fall of 2022, right after COVID had died down enough that in-person classes had restarted. I was taking the Ceramics CEU course, because I did not need credit. I think non-traditional was code for "senior, elderly, old, or retired." I wasn't expecting the range of genders, ages, and experiences of the students in the class.

Tom was one of the first people I observed. He was throwing on the wheel. I loved the shapes of his bowls and later, how he glazed them. When you first saw him, you didn't know whether he would be approachable, so I just watched him. What I found was that Tom was always happy to talk about pottery. He would share tips on clay he used, his techniques, he was always helpful and willing to answer questions.

I will miss seeing him in upcoming classes I take. He will surely be missed.

Tom was my wonderful, funny, amazing assistant at North Lake College. There was no way I could have taught 5 classes simultaneously without him. We also shared our love for theater...... I have his pottery in my kitchen and on my front porch.....Binnie will be glad to get her partner back with her. You made a difference in my life. I am better for knowing you, Tom.