Barre, Vermont – Peter Michael Tomasi, a long-serving Correctional Officer at Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility, passed away on , at Barre Gardens, following a period of illness. He was 67 years old.
Born on , Tomasi was the fifth child of Dr. Ernest and Barbara (Rogers) Tomasi, both of whom predeceased him. His early education took place at St. Michael’s and Montpelier schools, followed by studies at Castleton State College. He leaves behind a complex family history, including a previous marriage to Barbara Clark, with whom he had his first son, and a later marriage to Donna Massey, with whom he raised three more sons.
Tomasi dedicated over 22 years of his life to service as a Correctional Officer. Colleagues at Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility remember him as a respected figure, appreciated not only by fellow staff and administration but also by those incarcerated within the facility. This suggests a capacity for professional conduct and interpersonal skills within a challenging environment.
Beyond his professional life, Tomasi enjoyed a range of hobbies and interests. He found pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren, caring for his dogs, and pursuing outdoor activities such as baseball and fishing at the family camp. He was described as a “Mr. Fix-It,” deriving satisfaction from dismantling and repairing objects – a testament to his practical skills and patient nature.
He is survived by his four sons: Michael H. Hersey, Michael Nagle (and his wife Amanda), Phillip Tomasi (and his wife Ashley), and Ryan Tomasi. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Mason, Kalab, Madison, Owen, Arabelle, Wyatt, Kayden, and Liam. His surviving siblings include Linda (Tom) Babic, Barbara (Bill) Tomasi-Gay, Ernest Tomasi, and Tim (Vivian Ladd) Tomasio, as well as brothers-in-law Brian, Timothy, and Michael Massey, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tomasi’s passing follows the death of his second wife, Donna Massey, who died on . The loss of both parents and his wife within a relatively short period underscores a period of personal hardship for Tomasi.
The family has expressed gratitude to the staff of the CVMC ICU for their care and attention, particularly noting their patience in accommodating his frequent requests for popsicles. They also extended heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Barre Gardens, acknowledging the special care and affection they provided, making him feel valued during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Elevate Youth Services, located at 652 Granger Rd, Suite 2, Barre, VT 05641, in Peter Tomasi’s memory. This suggests a commitment to supporting youth services within the local community.
The passing of Peter Tomasi represents a loss not only to his family and friends but also to the community he served for over two decades. His dedication to his profession, coupled with his personal interests and commitment to family, paints a picture of a man who found fulfillment in both his work and his leisure activities. The respect he garnered from both colleagues and those within the correctional system speaks to his character and ability to navigate a complex and often challenging role.
Recent obituaries published by the Barre Montpelier Times Argus also noted the passing of Larry White Benedini, 82, of Barre Town, who died suddenly. Margaret F. Rouelle, 80, a long-time resident of Montpelier and Barre Town, was also recently remembered in the same publication.
