Tom Larsen was a generous, focused man who did it all his way…. including his death. He fought cancer for several months, until he realized it wasn’t going to work and then, he surrendered on September 1, 2023 at the age of 88.
Tom entered the world on March 25, 1935 as a surprise baby for Carolyn and George, an unexpected twin to Barbara (Lincoln), a brother to Sally (McAlpine) and Robert Larsen. As he grew and it became apparent that Tom was favoring his left-hand, his mom tied it to the back of his wooden highchair, encouraging him to learn to use his right-hand and be successful in a society that frowned upon using the left-hand. Later, Tom would have to work twice as hard in school, trying to achieve high grades while struggling with dyslexia. These experiences helped shape the man who was willing to work so diligently to be prosperous and “important” in so many ways.
Tom did grow up in Newton and graduated from Governor Dummer’s Academy in Byfield, Massachusetts. The headmaster at Governor’s picked Tom out, calling Tom into the office and telling him that with all the boys under his care, for all the years, he had never met another one like Tom! What a smart headmaster!
Tom continued his education at Michigan State where he studied hospitality. Upon graduation, he returned to work with his dad at Pillar House, a restaurant in Newton. Eventually, Tom bought the business from his dad and transformed it from a place known for traditional New England fare to one of American Contemporary cuisine.
The theme for Tom’s 80th birthday was “The Road Less Taken.” Tom was a ground-breaking restauranteur. Under his direction, Pillar House was only open Monday through Friday for dinner because Tom wanted to have a family life for him and his employees. He was the first restaurant in the nation to be non-smoking and later, he banned cell phones from the diningroom.
After college, Tom married Betty Larsen who became the mother of his four children: George, Elizabeth “Lisa”, Robert and Christopher who is married to Jill. Tom has four precious grandchildren: Nicholas and Skylar Cross, Andrew and Brady Larsen.
When referring to his beloved, Nancy (Brugnoli) Monaghan, Tom often joked that the third time is a charm! They enjoyed 23 adventurous years together. Tom came to treasure the Brugnoli-Monaghan circle of love including Nancy’s daughter Leah Monaghan, her husband, Chris Poulsen, and their children Isak, Gemma and Zane as well as Nancy’s daughter Jenn Monaghan, her husband Rob Fallon and their daughters Zoe and Adia.
Tom and Nancy formally committed to one another during a private wedding ceremony in their garage during the Pandemic with Pippi, their faithful doberman, as a witness.
Tom was known for his passion. Perhaps at the top of his list was being successful in all of his endeavors and always doing it his way. He was a gatherer and entertainer-extraordinaire, who enjoyed spending time with friends and hosting parties, especially for sporting events. He loved to travel around the world. He sailed, especially in the Caribbean where he had a home on the island of Tortola. Tom appreciated collecting classic cars. He was a steadfast supporter of the Larz Anderson Auto Museum where he helped establish the Anderson Society endowment, assuring this historical treasure will be available for generations to come.
Some of Tom’s mantras for life included:
· Live in the moment – always be present
· Always go forward
· Establish and keep track of your 1-year, 5-year and 10-year goals – professionally and personally
Rev. AndreaGrace will lead a private Celebration of Life in October. A public car rally in Tom’s honor will be held at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum at a future date.
Donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Larz Anderson Auto Museum.
Tom, may you finally rest… and may it be in Divine peace. May the Source-of-all-that-is-Good comfort and strengthen your circle of love as they move through this next season of their lives. May your indomitable spirit, your bright spark and your generous heart live on in each of us.
You may download his obituary here with many photos of his full life!
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