We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Tom Stingelin. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort.
Click on the heart to to receive email updates.
In lieu of flowers, we're requesting donations be made to a charitable organization. Details to be confirmed.... see moreWe created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Tom Stingelin. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort.
Click on the heart to to receive email updates.
In lieu of flowers, we're requesting donations be made to a charitable organization. Details to be confirmed.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held in Naperville, IL in late August or September. Date to be confirmed based on venue availability. Hotel accommodations details, including room block/rates, will be provided here for out of town guests.
OBITUARY
STINGELIN, Thomas John (Tom) (Ballsbridge Dublin and formerly of Naperville Illinois, USA) 3rd June 2022 (suddenly) at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4, from Septic Shock. He leaves behind his loving parents John and Ann and his sister and best friend Brooke. Sadly missed by his family, friends and colleagues in the US and Ireland.
Someone wrote this in a card when my 24 y/o son John died and as days pass I realized and enjoyed more and more the WISDOM of these words that I say to you...."Death tears at a wound that's difficult to heal 😢 BUT, MEMORIES are gifts that no one can... moreSomeone wrote this in a card when my 24 y/o son John died and as days pass I realized and enjoyed more and more the WISDOM of these words that I say to you...."Death tears at a wound that's difficult to heal 😢 BUT, MEMORIES are gifts that no one can steal!" It WILL take time but, with time many happy memories will surface that keep you in touch with your loved one having you appreciate the value of each human life that passes in and out of ours! The happy memories of a person are the parts of the soul that achieved enlightenment. Love to you and Tom for all the happy memories he gave to fulfill our lives! less
At Frito Lay, Tom earned the nickname of “fast khakis” because he was perpetually in motion — the most dynamic individual who was always moving from one thing to the next with lightning quick wit and a perfectly timed joke (and also because the man... moreAt Frito Lay, Tom earned the nickname of “fast khakis” because he was perpetually in motion — the most dynamic individual who was always moving from one thing to the next with lightning quick wit and a perfectly timed joke (and also because the man loved a good pair of *well fitting* khakis).
I have countless memories of my early career with Tom; most of which include lots of Lady Gaga lip syncs and many, many, MANY in depth discussions on the lives, trials and tribulations of Bravolebrities. When I got engaged, Tom congratulated me in the most Tom way by asking “You love him? He doesn’t annoy you?”
To be friends with Tom was magical — you felt lighter, brighter, and like you were in on a very special inside joke. And to make him laugh, well that was the best. To be a part of his orbit is one of the biggest joys of my life. I love you Tom, see you on the other side. 💫🤍🕊 less
We are so very sad to hear about Tom, and our first thought is…. another beloved young member of our family taken away from us too soon.
It breaks our hearts knowing all too well what you are going through... moreTo John (nephew & cousin), Ann and Brooke:
We are so very sad to hear about Tom, and our first thought is…. another beloved young member of our family taken away from us too soon.
It breaks our hearts knowing all too well what you are going through and our love, thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Although we never really got to know Tom, it is so incredibly moving to see the outpouring of love on this site for him and having the opportunity to get to know him a little better. It’s clear that Tom was truly an amazing person and to see how he touched everyone’s lives in his own special way, is a beautiful tribute to his memory, as well as to his parents, sister and extended family.
Our wish for you is to keep these precious memories close to your heart and treasure them in hopes that they may soften your sorrow over time.
Love always,
Onkel Eric, Tante Irma and your cousins Karen, Lorie, Rita and Susi less
I only had the opportunity to meet Tom once, but knowing Brooke was like knowing Tom. Brooke - I can still see the way you would light up while telling a story about Tom. It was so clearly evident how close you two were and how you both truly loved one... moreI only had the opportunity to meet Tom once, but knowing Brooke was like knowing Tom. Brooke - I can still see the way you would light up while telling a story about Tom. It was so clearly evident how close you two were and how you both truly loved one another. All of my love and prayers are with you and the family.
Love,
Sara Daul less
So many of my core memories center Tom and his sister, Brooke. Some at the beach with our families, some at their home in Chicago, and some at our grandparents house. Tom taught me what a podcast was (hello, PotterCast), how to play N64 (or maybe it was... moreSo many of my core memories center Tom and his sister, Brooke. Some at the beach with our families, some at their home in Chicago, and some at our grandparents house. Tom taught me what a podcast was (hello, PotterCast), how to play N64 (or maybe it was a playstation 🤔), and how to dig the biggest sand hole in all of Delaware. I remember SO vividly playing for hours and hours at our grandparents house, sneaking back in the pine trees to have an "adventure" I remember our younger cousins sticking to Tom like glue and he never grew impatient. I remember Tom growing up and always being so impressed with him and the things he did.
As we all became adults we saw each other much less, but it was still so great to watch Tom thrive from afar. About 10 years ago, I remember seeing more and more Facebook pictures of Tom with his new Dallas friends. I was just so happy for him and thinking "Yes!! Tom found his tribe!". Social media allowed me to see Tom and his family and friends, and their adventures, and root for him from half way across the country.
I got to see and spend time with Tom at my wedding in 2019. Gosh, what a blast. We danced and drank and laughed until our sides hurt. And our little after-party closed the bar at 2am. I couldn't imagine a more awesome person to hang out with.
I'm so heartbroken that Tom's time on earth was cut short. But I'm thrilled for the time he had while he was here; he lived it to the fullest. I'm sending all my love, hugs, and warmth to Brooke, Aunt Ann, and Uncle John. ❤️❤️❤️ less
Tom: I used to tell you that you were in the top 5 funniest people I had ever met to which you would reply “you’re in my top 10” which would make us both laugh. Truth is, you were always the funniest. Love you Tom. 💔
I remember when I first met Tom at the Stingelin house in the summer. Brooke and I met at IU and became instant friends. We were so excited that we both lived in the Chicago area. I often went to Brooke's house when we were home for college during the... moreI remember when I first met Tom at the Stingelin house in the summer. Brooke and I met at IU and became instant friends. We were so excited that we both lived in the Chicago area. I often went to Brooke's house when we were home for college during the summer. I loved watching Brooke and Tom laugh together and it made me laugh even if it was at my expense. I told Tom and Brooke how I loved MTV's The Challenge and we all laughed at how I might be the only person still watching the show. Tom asked me about the show every time I saw him from that day forward and it always made us belly laugh. He was always so welcoming and had a witty sense of humor and a great smile just like Brooke. Brooke, Ann and John, sending you lots of hugs and prayers during this difficult time. Here for you always <3 less
My deepest condolences. We all were so fond of him, and I have such wonderful memories of not only the early days of his and Jon’s friendship, but of visiting with him at Ann and John’s 60th. He exuded such joy on that day and had the same smile... moreMy deepest condolences. We all were so fond of him, and I have such wonderful memories of not only the early days of his and Jon’s friendship, but of visiting with him at Ann and John’s 60th. He exuded such joy on that day and had the same smile that we remembered from when we first met him as a first-grader. He will live forever in our memories and hearts. less
4 years ago I was greeted in Reed and T.J.’s living room in Dallas by the biggest smile and heart that has forever left an everlasting impact on my life.
I believe some people are just made with an extra layer of good, but the best ones, the truly... more4 years ago I was greeted in Reed and T.J.’s living room in Dallas by the biggest smile and heart that has forever left an everlasting impact on my life.
I believe some people are just made with an extra layer of good, but the best ones, the truly special ones, are the people who extend that good, and love to fill the cup of every person around them.
From the moment I met Tom, as we bonded over our love for Portillos and the way we both pronounced our Chicagoan “O’s,” I knew undoubtedly that he was one of these people.
I’ve had a lot of time to sit my thoughts over the past weekend and as I reflect, replay, and relive the amazing moments and memories that I was able to create with Tom, and every single one of those memories includes a deep hurtful belly laughter and a drive home where my cheeks would hurt so bad from smiling so hard.
I will never forget the day that I met Tom at the boys house, and he looked at me grab my arm and laughed and said “oh yeah we’re going to be friends,” followed by a couple explicit and funny comments asking about Steve (which I will keep removed from this thread to keep it PG.)
But the one thing that sticks with me the most, is that becoming friends with Tom made me feel home.
Tom, your light was, and will forever be infectious. Your one liners, (mostly super inappropriate jokes,) will live rent free in my memory forever, and your ability to bring laughter and fill everyone’s cup in any room, in any situation, is the piece of you and our friendship that will continue to inspire me to be a better person daily.
Tom, I feel forever grateful to be apart of your chosen family, and to have created memories with you and Brooke. I recognize how difficult it is, and will continuously be, to feel the void of your loss, and I know it’s one we will feel forever. To your whole family, chosen and blood, I know we all can empathize with this feeling.
Here’s to looking for rainbows, to blaring GaGa and having dance parties in my living room, to sneaking mini wine bottles into movie theaters, and to holding onto your sweet love and smile forever. I love you to the moon and stars and back Tom, I always have, and I always will. 🌈🖤 less
Tom, I have had the privilege of meeting you throughout the years and the honor of hearing about you, and the rest of your family, on the many business trips I took with your father. It is clear that you have touched many lives through your short time... moreTom, I have had the privilege of meeting you throughout the years and the honor of hearing about you, and the rest of your family, on the many business trips I took with your father. It is clear that you have touched many lives through your short time with us and know you will be sorely missed, but we take solace in the fact that your bright light will continue to shine.
John, Ann and Brooke, there are no words for what you are going through but want to offer my sincere condolences during this most difficult time. Thanks for sharing Tom with us and know he, and your entire family, have made the world a better place. less
Tom,
I am gutted that I have to write this, it breaks my heart that your mom, dad and sister are going through this. You will be forever missed. Over the 27 years we had many memories more when we were kids. Those memories came flooding back when I... moreTom,
I am gutted that I have to write this, it breaks my heart that your mom, dad and sister are going through this. You will be forever missed. Over the 27 years we had many memories more when we were kids. Those memories came flooding back when I got the news from my mom and every day since. As kids we spent the summers in Dave and Beryl's pool, that was a blast, but not when we had to sit out of the pool for 30 minutes after we had something to eat lol!!! Going to the zoo, Great America for our dad's work outings and there was a lot of them. Going to Super Bowl parties at your parents house, birthday parties and playing power rangers down in the basement. We had a lot of laughs and I will hold and cherish those memories and many more to my heart. love you, Alexis less
I came to know and love Tom through my best friend Brooke. Brooke not only got me my first job at Blue Chip but it was also at Blue Chip that Brooke got Tom a summer internship. What an amazing time it was working together...Tom was an insanely hard... moreI came to know and love Tom through my best friend Brooke. Brooke not only got me my first job at Blue Chip but it was also at Blue Chip that Brooke got Tom a summer internship. What an amazing time it was working together...Tom was an insanely hard worker but insanely funny, too. I drove Tom home to Naperville one day after work and we did not stop laughing the entire ride home. It was then that I thought "how do I tell Brooke I want to be best friends with her brother, too? Is that weird?" Tom was magnetic. He was always invited to our high school friend outings and he made the time that much more enjoyable. I am blessed to have seen him over the holidays at a bowling event where we snuck off, took shots and laughed together. I will forever miss him but I know the bond we all had with Tom will continue to endure because the stories, memories and laughter will live on. Tom, we will miss you but know your spirit is living on up there in Heaven. Until we meet again. less
From the first time I met Tom, I knew I wanted to be his friend. It was so immediately clear that everyone he knew respected and loved him. When I joined Frito Lay in 2015, Tom was the first person I met and served as my guide to navigating the... moreFrom the first time I met Tom, I knew I wanted to be his friend. It was so immediately clear that everyone he knew respected and loved him. When I joined Frito Lay in 2015, Tom was the first person I met and served as my guide to navigating the organization. I leaned on him for so many questions during those first months. Luckily for me, our relationship quickly evolved from co-workers to friends.
One of my favorite things about Tom is that he was 100% his true self, no matter who he interacted with or what the occasion was. There was no “work Tom” and “friend Tom” - he was the same person wherever he went. Tom was always trying to make people smile, and I’m still laughing at all the fun memories we shared together. At the same time, I am so grateful for what he taught me in my career. He was so supportive of me, always encouraging me to do my best and striving for more.
I’ve been thinking so much about all the fun times we had together. Here are a collection of some of my favorite memories of Tom.
- Tom organizing a Survivor-style competition among our Walmart Shopper Marketing team complete with a ropes course and gladiator-style battles - he was definitely the most excited about this idea
- One weekend night, Tom, Megan, Camille and I watched the Lady Gaga Super Bowl Halftime Show (Tom probably for the 75th time) and Tom recreated every move, since he knew every second of the entire performance - I’ll always think of him when I re-watch this on YouTube!
- Right before Tom moved off the Tostitos team for a promotion, he ordered 500 Tostitos Cinco de Mayo t-shirts that had an image of a Piñata and the caption “I’d Hit That.” He sent them out to the entire field sales organization as a sales incentive…but then pretended it was a mistake when we got in trouble for encouraging harassment (oops). Luckily I was there to clean up the mess as I backfilled him on Tostitos. Regardless of the drama it caused, Tom still wore his shirt with pride!
- When I joined the Tostitos team, he shared a list of the projects he was working on and guided me through the projects I’d take on as he moved off the team. I took a look at the white board in his cubicle and was immediately overwhelmed, and wondered how I’d ever be able to fill his shoes as he moved on to a new role. He was a master of getting things done, which is why so many people wanted him on their team. However, Tom was there to bring me up to speed and lend his support - he never let me down, and was always there to support me.
- Tom ordered us countless Titos & Sodas when we’d go out around Dallas. When we tried to pay him back, he would tell us that he made more money than us so it was fine.
- I loved bar hopping with Tom and Glenda around Uptown Dallas, usually landing at BBC. Tom would meet everyone he could at the bar, introducing us to new friends as the night went on (and usually trying his best to set us up on dates).
- I loved traveling to Ann Arbor for interviews with Tom! We were such great interview buddies and we were fortunate to hire some of the next generation of PepsiCo interns. During the pizza dinners we’d host for the interview candidates the night before, I was super awkward in front of the undergrad students, yet Tom would make me laugh and turn the conversation into something fun. We always prided ourselves on having the most fun table across all the other PepsiCo offices who were interviewing with us. After those dinners, Tom wanted to go out, even though we had interviews at 8am. One night, we ended up closing down Rick’s, the classic basement bar, taking a photo in front of the neon sign and making new friends along the way. Luckily, we had several opportunities to travel to Ann Arbor to lead interviews for internships and full-time offers at Frito Lay. It was so fun sharing memories of our alma mater, even though we didn’t overlap or attend school together.
There are so many more memories I have. I’m so lucky to have known Tom. I’m extremely grateful for our friendship and I know I’ll carry him in my heart until we meet again. less
John, Ann, and Brooke, thank you for including us in his beautiful service today. I'm sending you so much love.
I met Tom in 2016 while working at Frito Lay and consider myself so fortunate to have had him as a close friend. Tom taught me so many... moreJohn, Ann, and Brooke, thank you for including us in his beautiful service today. I'm sending you so much love.
I met Tom in 2016 while working at Frito Lay and consider myself so fortunate to have had him as a close friend. Tom taught me so many lessons without even knowing he was. He inspired me to take risks, reminded me how important it is to nurture my relationships, and was the best example of how to live life to the fullest. He was truly one-of-a-kind. Tom, I love you and miss you so much. Until we meet again my sweet friend. ❤️ less
It’s been really rainy in Seattle this June. Which, contrary to the world’s assumptions about this city, is uncommon. It’s been dark, moody, and we all feel a bit sad.
I cannot explain this with actual physics, but I believe each of us puts out a... moreIt’s been really rainy in Seattle this June. Which, contrary to the world’s assumptions about this city, is uncommon. It’s been dark, moody, and we all feel a bit sad.
I cannot explain this with actual physics, but I believe each of us puts out a little beam of light when we spend our time on this earth.
The gloominess of the Seattle skies feel like they mirror the missing light from our friend, Tom.
I was so fortunate to have worked alongside Tom during my time at PepsiCo / Frito-Lay in Dallas. I always loved seeing his beaming smile, hearing his adorable quips, and being continually impressed by his combination of work ethic, intelligence, and wit. His midwestern accent made me giggle, and I always left any conversation with him with a smile on my face.
One of my favorite photos of me & Tom was Tom beating me in a tricycle race in the Frito-Lay headquarters in Dallas. What a perfect memory of a unique company, a great team of marketers, leaders who encouraged us to be ourselves, and the people who made us feel like we belonged. Anybody who knows me knows that the loss to Tom in our tricycle race bummed me out; I was a professional bicycle racer before I came to PepsiCo! But he was gracious in victory, and his love of fun events like this. He helped shape our culture, and the fact that we could even race tricycles around the cafeteria was a testament to his ability to persuade us that building amazing teams was more than just delivering financial results.
I have been so sad since I heard the news from our friend Trisha. I have been struggling to put my finger on why, exactly, I am so sad. And I have concluded this:
We who knew Tom were all fortunate to bathe in the light his spirit emitted. He touched all of us with his wonderful personality. I never chose to have children, but if I had had a son, I would have wanted him to be like Tom. He had a brightness and courage to him that was unmatched. He helped shape the culture of PepsiCo with his ability to bring his whole, beautiful self to work. He pushed us to redefine what success looks like, what inclusion looks like, and what a strong team can be. That was how his light touched us.
But I think am sad, almost more, for the fact that the rest of the world no longer gets to bask in his light. That the brightness he brought is dimmed a bit because he left us too soon.
Today, after listening to the heartfelt messages from friends & family at his livestreamed service, I am encouraged. It’s because we all get to carry a bit of him inside of our hearts and can share that brightness with the people we meet. Good people leave a mark long after they are gone, and there isn’t a better example of that than Tom.
I have faith that the Seattle skies will soon brighten, and though physics cannot explain it, maybe it’ll be because of the light he gave to each of us that we now carry into the world. less
I love you Tom. You knew how to live life to the fullest and while you did a lot after 9 PM (so I missed out) I cherished the moments we shared. I’ll miss you my friend.
Tom, we remember you from the times as an inquisitive young boy to a joyful man. We cherish all the family gatherings we had together in Naperville. You are dearly missed by all who know you. God bless you and your amazing family and friends. Love to all... moreTom, we remember you from the times as an inquisitive young boy to a joyful man. We cherish all the family gatherings we had together in Naperville. You are dearly missed by all who know you. God bless you and your amazing family and friends. Love to all from Gordon, Debbie, Sophia and David. less
Tom our memories span some 27 years, from the wee boy you see here to this fine young man enjoying a glass of wine. Great memories of a wonderful fella. Tom, while we grieve your passing, our memories we cherish, that is where we will find some solace,... moreTom our memories span some 27 years, from the wee boy you see here to this fine young man enjoying a glass of wine. Great memories of a wonderful fella. Tom, while we grieve your passing, our memories we cherish, that is where we will find some solace, you live on forever in our hearts. less
I am still in shock since I got the call from Dena. As I shared with her many times, Tom was one of the most amazing partners to work with and quick to make friends. I never seen him without a big smile. We joked many times about he adopting my home and... moreI am still in shock since I got the call from Dena. As I shared with her many times, Tom was one of the most amazing partners to work with and quick to make friends. I never seen him without a big smile. We joked many times about he adopting my home and me his. He was a truly wonderful human and had a strong desire to create new things. I hope we can continue to bring some of his ideas to market. He will be missed. RIP Tom, keep smiling on us as you enjoy your eternal rest. Michael less
There are a few people in your life if you are very fortunate, who are ALWAYS genuinely happy to see you when you meet. You can just feel it. One of those people for me, has always been my nephew Tom Stingelin. Even when he was a toddler, whenever... moreThere are a few people in your life if you are very fortunate, who are ALWAYS genuinely happy to see you when you meet. You can just feel it. One of those people for me, has always been my nephew Tom Stingelin. Even when he was a toddler, whenever "crazy uncle Paul" was on the scene at any family event, birthday party, holiday gathering, etc..., his eyes would always light up when we saw each other as he knew I would do something silly and funny!
Years later when I was in Dallas on a business trip, I told him I'm coming to town, and steaks were on me! We talked about his graduation from Michigan State and his budding career and advancements at PepsiCo/Frito Lay. We talked for over 3 hours and had a blast.
I distinctly remember when we all came to the Cubs party for John and Ann's B-day at Wrigley, we loved just hanging out and enjoying our families and friends together. Even though the game was a rainout, it didn't matter since we were all together!
Most recently when Tom and Johnny were are the hotel bar before Erich and Lindsay's rehearsal dinner in Brooklyn, as soon as I got out of the lobby elevator and saw him, our eyes met and we immediately walked to each other for the bro hugs and kisses! I just cannot believe I will never see that Tom smile again, and hear him crack one of his wry quips and enjoy his bone dry sense of humor.
He was so witty and funny. I loved Tom, and I know he loved me, that's the main thing that will help me cope with this unbelievable tragedy. I will miss him forever. less
From Tom's Uncle "Jack" and Aunt Sharon:
We didn't get to see a lot of Tom since he lived far away, but when we saw him last, in 2019 at our niece's wedding, we both thought he was the coolest guy there. We never saw anyone enjoy himself more,... moreFrom Tom's Uncle "Jack" and Aunt Sharon:
We didn't get to see a lot of Tom since he lived far away, but when we saw him last, in 2019 at our niece's wedding, we both thought he was the coolest guy there. We never saw anyone enjoy himself more, and make everyone around happier than he did. This is how we will always remember him - a good man that people love. less
Tom was, in every sense of the word, a light. His smile lit up a room and his laughter was like a match that once struck, lit everyone around him into shared laughter. But what shined the brightest in Tom was his kindness, his warm heart, his love of... moreTom was, in every sense of the word, a light. His smile lit up a room and his laughter was like a match that once struck, lit everyone around him into shared laughter. But what shined the brightest in Tom was his kindness, his warm heart, his love of life. I feel so lucky to have known Tom, and I can say with absolute certainty that I am a better person for it. I am keeping the Stingelin family, and everyone who will feel Tom’s proud absence, in my thoughts and my heart. ♥️ less
Tom, was one of the best people I knew! He was the sort of person you just gravitated too and wanted to be friends with. We loved when Brooke would bring him out with our BD gang, he was just part of us. I knew if Tom was around it was going to be a fun... moreTom, was one of the best people I knew! He was the sort of person you just gravitated too and wanted to be friends with. We loved when Brooke would bring him out with our BD gang, he was just part of us. I knew if Tom was around it was going to be a fun time. He was so funny, loving and complimentary. His love for his sister was unmatchable (also lady Gaga) and something I loved to see. Tom, I’m jealous of the people that get to have you in heaven. Love you and the time I got to share with you! Xo less
They say best friends are the family we choose. Well, being part of Tom’s chosen Dallas family is truly one of my life’s greatest blessings. The memories that Reed and I and our tight friend group created with Tom will not be forgotten because those... moreThey say best friends are the family we choose. Well, being part of Tom’s chosen Dallas family is truly one of my life’s greatest blessings. The memories that Reed and I and our tight friend group created with Tom will not be forgotten because those memories made such a lasting impression on all of us who called him a friend.
Tom and I met at the Round Up more than 10 years ago while dancing and singing along to “The Edge of Glory.” I have a lot of memories like that, which will comfort me in the days to come, like attending (and raging) at our first Lady Gaga concert, seeing an MCU film on opening weekend, visiting the Stingelin family in Chicago, discussing election politics, pop culture, our careers, families, and futures.
Tom loved being with friends. And as we all got a little older, gathering at one of our homes and just watching our favorite show or YouTube videos and drinking rosé was enough. Those were the nights when we all laughed the most. There’s no greater memory than the sound of a Tom’s big laugh. His smile, joy for life, and optimistic attitude will always remain in my heart.
Brooke, Anne, and John, know that you’re surrounded by our love during this difficult time. Tom will be dearly missed by his Dallas family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Tom, I’m better for knowing you, better for loving you, better for having met you.
Tom,
you were more than our best friend,
you were our brother. You are our brother.
I don’t think there’s a memory in the past decade+ that doesn’t involve a Tom-ism of some kind as you were always a value-add to any situation. Just know we will... moreTom,
you were more than our best friend,
you were our brother. You are our brother.
I don’t think there’s a memory in the past decade+ that doesn’t involve a Tom-ism of some kind as you were always a value-add to any situation. Just know we will cherish those moments for the rest of our lives and more than anything it was truly an honor to be one of your chosen family.
I love you to the moon and back again brother.
I always have and I always will.
The mark you left on us is indelible. less
Have you ever met someone that made you feel like you were totally loved and accepted even with all your quirks, faults and imperfections? Someone who lite up a whole room the moment he walked in? Well I have, it’s my Beautiful nephew Tom or as I like... moreHave you ever met someone that made you feel like you were totally loved and accepted even with all your quirks, faults and imperfections? Someone who lite up a whole room the moment he walked in? Well I have, it’s my Beautiful nephew Tom or as I like to call him Tommy 💙 The gentlest , kindest, funniest most loving soul I have ever met. Always with a smile on his face, pure love and a dash of delightful humor! My heart is broken and will forever have a spot with his name on it. The world and our family will have to try and move forward without the the light that he is. I know it will be hard but I also know that’s what Tom would want. So today and moving forward as I think of him I will try to do better and shine a little brighter in his honor. It is truly amazing that a 34 year old Nephew could teach his 62 year old Aunt so much about life. Thank you Tommy I consider myself so lucky to have been part of your journey.
Ann and John, The Best Parents Ever! You raised an amazing son! His love for you both was so evident when telling his stories or posting about life in “The Stingelin House”. Always funny and full of love. I absolutely know his love for you both had no bounds. I know there is nothing I can say to ease your pain. He was and will always be a blessing. My heart breaks for you and I will be here for you always. I love you!
Brooke….. Tom’s sister and Best Friend I know he adored you and that the feeling was mutual. You completed each other. You are his biggest fan (there is a big competition going on for that spot!) and the best sister he could ever ask for. I know the road ahead will be hard for you but keep his light shining in your heart. He will always be with you even with his passing, nothing will ever change that. I love you so much my Beautiful niece and I’m always here for you!
So today as I try to make sense of this all I will remember Tommy with a thankful and loving heart. Your Aunt Janet loves you big time and always will!!! I’m so thankful to have been blessed with you in my life. I will miss my Big Hugs. Heaven has gained a beautiful new Angel and the sky a Bright New Star. I’ll be searching the skies for you till we meet once again. All my love always, Aunt Janet less
You were such a uniquely special young man, and I am forever grateful for the many years you blessed our lives… You were family to us, and I know you felt the same .. you knew how much I loved my Boyz. 💟… you certainly left your mark .. you are... moreYou were such a uniquely special young man, and I am forever grateful for the many years you blessed our lives… You were family to us, and I know you felt the same .. you knew how much I loved my Boyz. 💟… you certainly left your mark .. you are forever in our hearts… Rest in sweet peace … 💔💟💔 less
I feel so incredibly lucky that I knew Tom — one of the funniest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. I first met Tom when he came with Brooke to my 26th birthday party. We spent that entire night dancing and laughing which set the tone for every... moreI feel so incredibly lucky that I knew Tom — one of the funniest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. I first met Tom when he came with Brooke to my 26th birthday party. We spent that entire night dancing and laughing which set the tone for every other interaction that I had with him after that. He will be so incredibly missed but his fun loving spirit will always live on through his bestie (and mine), Brooke. Sending so much love to the entire Stingelin family during this time. I love you all. less
Tom, I didn’t just like you.
I loved you.
You didn’t just make me laugh.
You made me cry with laughter.
Today, I’m still crying.
But when I think of you, the tears that run down my face will be from the endless joy and laughter you brought into so... moreTom, I didn’t just like you.
I loved you.
You didn’t just make me laugh.
You made me cry with laughter.
Today, I’m still crying.
But when I think of you, the tears that run down my face will be from the endless joy and laughter you brought into so many of our lives.
Rest less
Being so close to Brooke over the years I felt like I’ve learned so much about your family which became an admiration of how loving, funny and close a family can be. It was never a dull moment hanging out with Tom, he had so much... moreJohn, Ann and Brooke
Being so close to Brooke over the years I felt like I’ve learned so much about your family which became an admiration of how loving, funny and close a family can be. It was never a dull moment hanging out with Tom, he had so much energy and humor but yet filled with so much love, I wish I had the privilege to be around him more, I know his memories and stories will live on.
I’m so sorry you have to go through this. Sending you love and prayers.
Ann, John and Brooke,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for this sad news about Tom. There are no words to lessen your grief. But I am sending hugs and prayers that you somehow get thru this difficult time.
I have so many great memories (and the photo receipts to prove) of Tom, I’ll be remembering random things for years. I can’t fully express my sympathies to his family— I don’t have the words, butI’m glad to have known him. Rest In Peace, friend.
How often are you gifted with a family member that shares the same sense of humor, the same attitude, the same outlook on life? It’s rare, and I’m lucky. Lucky to have had Tom in my life. Lucky we were born weeks apart. Lucky we grew up together and... moreHow often are you gifted with a family member that shares the same sense of humor, the same attitude, the same outlook on life? It’s rare, and I’m lucky. Lucky to have had Tom in my life. Lucky we were born weeks apart. Lucky we grew up together and shared an affinity for dancing at a young age. Lucky distance never seemed to affect our bond. Lucky I had someone who got me. It’s all luck, because I certainly didn't deserve Tom. Ann and John blessed us with one of the most authentic humans I’ve ever met. His energy and laugh will be missed forever, but I know memories of him will live through Brooke. I love you Tom. less
We were next door neighbors to the Stingelins for 20+ years, so he had a first row seat to their incredible family bond. Many aspire to a bond like that, but they had it. I always called Tom a “modern renaissance” man, because he truly had it all.... moreWe were next door neighbors to the Stingelins for 20+ years, so he had a first row seat to their incredible family bond. Many aspire to a bond like that, but they had it. I always called Tom a “modern renaissance” man, because he truly had it all. The world will surely miss his gifts. John, Ann and Brooke, our heats are breaking for you. Hugs and love from all of us to all of you. less
Tom was always a part of my life through my love and friendship with the Stingelin family. Laughter was such an important part of being close to Brooke and Tom brought so much joy to her and their family. Tom and the Stingelin family will always be in my thoughts.
I knew most of Tom through stories via his fabulous sister and my best friend, Brooke. I saw how he was her ‘person,’ that they just ‘got each other’ and how much he was a shining star in her life. As soon as I had the privilege to meet him, I... moreI knew most of Tom through stories via his fabulous sister and my best friend, Brooke. I saw how he was her ‘person,’ that they just ‘got each other’ and how much he was a shining star in her life. As soon as I had the privilege to meet him, I immediately understood why. He could not be a more down-to-earth, witty, and caring person. Someone who made a positive impression with anyone he met, accepting of all and just a fun guy to be around. We spent 4th of July together and I’m thankful for a wonderful memory of belly laughs with those two. Hugs to you all Ann, John and Brooke - I am thinking of you all during this difficult time. less