Thomas E. Larkin
Waltham – Tom Larkin, 69, died Sunday, January 17, 2016 at his beloved home in the woods.
Tom was born in Windsor Vt., October 7, 1946, second son to John and Cecile Larkin.
Tom attended the University of Vermont, landing a job at Sanel Auto Parts in Burlington, Vt. When offered a managerial position at Sanel Auto Parts, Tom decided to make a career change. Following many months of adventures traveling the country contemplating his next career move, Tom returned to Vermont and attended Vermont Technical College, graduating with a two-year degree in Architecture and Building Engineering. In 1979, Tom began his work at J.W. & D. E. Ryan, earning his Master Plumbing Licensure. Tom’s remarkable gifts were his superior and masterful technological problem-solving skills along with his great care and concern he gave to his clients. Tom was a well respected, highly valued and well-loved member of the J.W. & D. E Ryan “family”. Tom left J.W. & D.E. Ryan in 2004 due to an illness. With great courage and perseverance, Tom overcame numerous obstacles due to the debilitating effects of his illness. In 2008, he became a volunteer driver for Addison County Transit Resources, a stunning accomplishment There he met an amazing and fascinating group of folks he cared deeply about spending untold hours making it possible for his clients to attend their daily, sometime life saving, appointments. The rich and varied conversations held during these drives brought great joy to Tom. He was a committed man to his ACTR clients.
Tommy will always be remembered for his wonderful ability to deeply connect with family, friends and clients. A lover of story telling, a gifted listener along with his wonderful ease in his willingness to laugh at himself and the foibles of we humans made Tom Larkin a beloved friend to many.
Tom was serious about cars. He took great care of both his everyday car along with his treasured and prized sport cars, particularly his Italian Alfa Romeos and string of British MGs.
Tom so enjoyed his unique home, particularly the wooded setting and became very involved creating a landscape of perfection particular with his gardens.
Tom was also an avid sports fan, spanning the years from his own Windsor High School football experience and as an undersized State Champion in the shot put to professional sports. Tom and his brother Fran shared an avid interest in the University of Vermont Men’s Basketball Team. Annually, the brothers traveled to support the Men’s UVM basketball team at American East Basketball Championship. As they drove to the various destinations, their conversations were wide and varied, ranging from the deeply philosophical to drive, thoroughly enjoying the joys of their shared lifetime memories, strengthening their bonds of brotherhood.
Tom is survived by his sister Leanna Larkin Willard of Windsor, Vt.; brother Francis of Burlington, Vt.; numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brother Jimmy in 2011; Bob Willard, his brother-in-law in 2011.
A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held at the Brown – McClay Funeral Home located in Vergennes, Vermont. The gathering will be held Friday, January 22, 2016 from 5 to 8 p.m. The family would be honored to hear stories, anecdotes, and remembrances of their dear brother Tom.
Memorial contributions may be made to Addison County Transit Resources located at 297 Creek Rd., Middlebury, Vt. 05753.