Thomas William LaBossiere

Raised in Cambridge, MA where he was born on April 19, 1937, Tom earned his degree at Boston College and later moved out west.

He met his wife-to-be, Carole, in San Francisco where they both taught for a short time in 1960. They fell in love quickly and soon became the perfect team who we all admired and loved. They were married in 1962 and their love affair lasted over 62 years. Truly a match made in heaven.

Settling in Salinas and then Monterey, Tom and Carole built a life for themselves and their children that was filled with love, joy, and lots of laughter. Tom and Carole had the first of their cherished children, Ross, in 1967. In 1972, Laura joined the family.

While raising two young children, Tom worked as an elementary school teacher in Salinas. He taught at Natividad School and then later at Monterey Park Elementary. Forever known as the “fun” teacher, Tom delighted his students with his charm, sense of humor, and love of learning. Students and their parents felt lucky if they were chosen to be in his class. He taught for over 40 years before retiring.

After leaving teaching,Tom took a job at the Monterey Visitor’s Center. A perfect job for Tom, he could advise tourists on the best restaurants, hotels, and attractions in the area. His extensive knowledge assisted many tourists, making their visits more enjoyable.

However accomplished Tom was in his professional life, his priority was always his family. He was a loving husband and father and he and Carole always sought out the best for their children. Later came the grandchildren and even the great-grandchildren. Tom and Carole showered them with love and attention as they did their own children.

Tom and Carole together enjoyed an active social life. Tom leaves behind many loving friendships. They both enjoyed travel and Tom made it his goal to go to Hawaii as often as he possibly could. Tom and Carole’s mutual work schedules and relatively early retirement made travel an accessible goal and they traveled together several months out of each year.

Whether at work, his social or family life, Tom touched so many people over the years. Quick witted and humorous with a generous spirit, Tom put others before himself and made you feel special. He will truly be missed by us all.

Tom is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carole, his son, Ross and daughter-in-law, Dina, grandchild, Haley, and great-grandchildren, Leo Drake and Mateo Von Ross. He is predeceased by his daughter, Laura, and grandson, Zakre Blain.

The family would like also to thank the staff of Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula for their gentle care during Tom’s last days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Tom's name are suggested to the SPCA for Monterey County, PO Box 3058, Monterey, CA, 93942.