Obituary of Thomas R. Brogan

At Sunrise on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, Thomas R. Brogan, age 96, of Burlington, VT passed and rose to the heavens. Tom was born on June 3,1928 in Syracuse, NY to Katherine Murphy Brogan and Thomas W. Brogan.

In his lifetime, Tom was the most remarkable Uncle, a fun-loving friend, an accomplished engineer, scientist, inventor and adventurer. He graduated from Most Holy Rosary, served his country in the US Navy as a submariner and went on to Cornell University and graduated from the School of Engineering.

Following his education and employment by others, Tom established MEPPSCO in Boston, MA which focused on innovation for aeronautics, aerospace, energy and other industries worldwide.  In his leisure time he was a member of the St. John's Club, Jubilee Yacht Club, a distinguished sailor, mountaineer, and cross-country skier. In the 1960's he made three Transatlantic crossings as the boat's captain. On one crossing Tom followed Christopher Columbus's route to San Salvador Island in the Bahamas. His sailing accomplishments also include winning the Marion Bermuda Race once in class and once finishing second overall. He took those skills and shared them with his nephews and nieces, teaching them how to make a sailboat go fast on his 37' Alberg Sloop named the POOF. Tom most enjoyed the camaraderie of the boat cockpit.

Tom was a true Irish man who created long lasting friendships. He spent many nights singing songs and dancing the night away. Tom loved his family and spending time with them especially his younger brother Bill and wife Shirley.

Tom was predeceased by his parents and his brother Bill and sister-in-law Shirley.

Tom leaves behind to celebrate his life his cousin James (Linda) Murphy, nieces Michele Rose, Martha (Joe) Fiacchi, nephews Tom (Kerry) Brogan and Dennis Brogan, his God Son Brogan Baldwin and his cherished friend Betsy Weitkamp of Denver Colorado. Tom will also be remembered by his grand nieces and nephews Joseph (Katrina) Fiacchi, William (Eliza) Fiacchi, Margaret Fiacchi, James Fiacchi, Thomas Fiacchi, Madelyn Brogan, Riley Brogan, Bella Brogan, Colleen Brogan, Meghan Brogan, Lillian Fiacchi, Theo Fiacchi and Levi Fiacchi.

Tom's family wishes to thank his friends from Home Instead whose kindness allowed him his independence to his final day.

Tom's humor, companionship and knowledge will be missed however, his impression on the Universe, literally, will be everlasting. Peace, Love & Sunshine Uncle Tom.

A celebration of Tom's life is planned for later this year.