Remembering Thomas (Tom) Andrew Van Trieste
Thomas (Tom) Andrew Van Trieste, 61, of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away suddenly at his home on October 22, 2026. He will be remembered as a man who loved his family, his pets, a good laugh, and all the little and big things that made life enjoyable.Born on May 5, 1965, to the late Donald Van Trieste and Jean Mae (Ford) Van Trieste, Tom grew up in Spring Mount, Pennsylvania, and graduated from St. Pius X High School. Throughout his life, he worked in a variety of careers and collected tools along the way – a collection that reflected both his practical nature and his love of having just the right tool for the job.One of Tom’s greatest joys was being a father. A brief marriage gave him his daughter, Monica, whom he loved dearly and raised on his own for many years. His love for her was a constant throughout his life and becoming a grandfather brought him another special joy. Being Pop to his granddaughter, Cynthia Jean (CJ), was one of the greatest happinesses of his later years.Tom’s own love story began on Mischief Night, October 30, 1999, when he met Gwen. The two were inseparable from that point on and married in 2002, sharing 24 years of love and life together. They spent 20 years in Zieglerville, Pennsylvania, before moving to Gloucester, Virginia, in 2022 to be closer to Monica and her family and to get away from the cold weather he didn’t enjoy. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, shared experiences, and the everyday moments that make a life meaningful.Tom had many interests that brought him happiness. He loved sports – especially football and especially Philadelphia teams; music – especially classic rock music and 1970’s/80’s pop; riding his motorcycle; and beach trips with family and friends – especially pilgrimages to the Outer Banks. He was happiest with a project to tackle around the house ranging from home improvements to cutting down trees – activities that suited his hands-on nature and gave him plenty to keep busy. He also had a soft spot for animals and shared his life with a long succession of beloved four-legged companions. Bear (dog) and Callie (cat) are cherished members of Tom and Gwen’s family.But more than any hobby or pastime, Tom loved laughter, family, and friends. He enjoyed the connections he made with others and the memories created along the way. Those who knew him will remember the things he loved, his sense of humor, and the unmistakable presence he brought to their lives. His absence will leave a space that cannot be filled, but the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will continue to bring comfort to those who loved him.Tom is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Gwenyth (Miller) Van Trieste; his daughter, Monica (Van Trieste) Turner, and son-in-law, John; his precious granddaughter, Cynthia Jean (CJ); his siblings, Ed, Steve, Lynne, and Nan; numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John.A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at American Legion Post 75, 5849 American Legion Way, Gloucester, Virginia 23061. The service will begin at noon, with a luncheon to follow. Family and friends will have an opportunity to share memories of Tom during the service. Those who prefer may send their memories to Gwen in advance at gvantrieste@gmail.com to be read during the service.In Tom’s memory, donations may be made to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation at umdf.org or to the ASPCA.Tom will be deeply missed by his family and friends. May his memory bring smiles, his stories continue to be told, and the love he shared live on in all who knew him.