Obituary of Thomas J. Samuelrich

Thomas J. Samuelrich, 48, was taken from us suddenly on February 14, 2017. Born July 10, 1968, “Tommy” was a lifelong resident of Windsor Locks, CT.  He was a graduate from University of Connecticut where he pledged Kappa Kappa Psi – Delta Omicron in 1987 and also marched in the UConn marching band and was a dedicated supporter of the UConn women’s basketball team. He moved to Palm Bay, FL in 2014. Thomas was a Child Protective Investigator for the State of CT Department of Children and Families for 15 years.  When he first moved to Palm Bay he became an investigations social worker for DCF Florida. In 2016, he was inspired by his love of children to become certified in Elementary Education. He was very proud of his work protecting, educating, and caring for all children. He loved children and they have always been drawn to him. His gentle loving spirit was clear to see. He and his husband are adoptive parents to their 3 children. They were the center of his world and always filled his heart with joy. He was and always will be a proud father. Thomas “Tommy” is survived by his husband Jack Samuelrich and their three children, Montgomery (Monty) Samuelrich, 10, Jeremiah Samuelrich, 9, and Brooklyn Samuelrich, 8. His mother Elizabeth “Betty” Samuelrich of Windsor Locks, CT.  His sister Melissa Samuelrich of Melbourne Fl. His sister in law Irene Pacensa of Melbourne, Fl.  He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins. Tommy was fortunate to have so many loving, caring, close friends.  He was predeceased by his father Peter Samuelrich Jr. of Windsor Locks, CT. Tommy was a proud member of Orlando Gay Parents group and leaves behind many loving families and children from the group. Tommy has touched so many lives with his gentle sweet spirit that is not possible to name every one. Life is a gift and the best way to honor Tommy is to be as kind and sweet to one another as he was to everyone who knew him The family will receive friends from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care, 1001 Hickory Street, Melbourne FL.  A time to celebrate his life with remarks from family and friends will begin at 7pm.