Senate Resolution No. 2166

BY: Senator BIAGGI

MOURNING the death of Thomas E. Roksvold Jr.,
long-time earth science teacher, family man, and
devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative
Body records the passing of Thomas E. Roksvold Jr., an extraordinary
gentleman of indomitable faith and dedication whose purposeful life will
long serve as a standard to which others might aspire; and

WHEREAS, Thomas E. Roksvold Jr. of Pelham, New York, died on Friday,
August 2, 2019, at the age of 46; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Edward Roksvold Jr. was born to Thomas and Mary Anne
Roksvold on February 16, 1973; after graduating from Pelham Memorial
High School, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in physics with a
minor in education; and

WHEREAS, While earning his master's degree from NYIT, Thomas E.
Roksvold Jr. began his lifelong teaching career in Earth Science at
Pelham Middle School; throughout his 23 years of service, he not only
impacted the lives of students and friends but was inspirational to
countless others through his roles as tutor, mentor and coach; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his tenure, Thomas E. Roksvold Jr. brought an
uncompromising standard of excellence to his work and a warm sense of
caring and concern to every young person he educated; he cherished his
role as an educator and truly cared for each and every one of his
students; and

WHEREAS, Devoted to his community, Thomas E. Roksvold Jr. was an
active member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church where he served as President
of the church council and various other committees; he also volunteered
his time and energy preparing meals for Hope Community Services; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by his brother, Kristian, Thomas E. Roksvold
Jr. is survived by his wife of 19 years, the former Teresa Palumbo; one
daughter, Kristina; one son, Erik; his parents, Thomas and Mary Anne;
his mother-in-law, Anna; and numerous aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces,
brothers and sisters-in-laws; as well as a legion of students, fellow
teachers, friends, and golf buddies; and

WHEREAS, Through his boundless energy and profound words of wisdom,
Thomas E. Roksvold Jr.'s legacy of true grace and infinite selflessness
and kindness, will shine on through his family's vivid and happy
memories; his shining light and strength will forever serve as a beacon
of love and hope for all who were privileged to have known and loved
such an amazing and dynamic man; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Thomas E. Roksvold Jr., long-time earth science
teacher, family man, and devoted member of his community; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Thomas E. Roksvold Jr.