Obituary of Thomas D. Kanzler

Thomas D. Kanzler, 64, of Penfield, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday January 18, 2022, at home.

Tom, a beloved husband, father and son was born on April 2, 1957, in Wilmington Delaware and moved at age 4 with his family to Norwalk, Connecticut where he grew up.  Tom graduated from Norwalk High School and the University of Connecticut, School of Engineering. In 1987 Tom married Jeri Teller; they celebrated 34 happy years together this past September.  

Throughout his life Tom gravitated towards all things mechanical: motorcycles in his 20’s, boating and sailing in his 30’s, 40’s & 50’s and most recently RVing in his 60’s.  Just for fun, Tom learned to fly planes.  Tom had the uncanny ability to fix anything and would often spend hours in his workshop working on projects or on-line with his WoodNet friends sharing ideas. Tom always made himself available to help family and friends when something needed repair. He was always happy to help. He touched many lives. 

Tom worked as a Professional Engineer (PE) designing tower crane booms, lifts and winch hydraulics, a career that he loved.  He found the mechanics and physics of his work fascinating.  

Tom loved being a father and grandfather. He adored his two sons, Jason and Matthew; they were his joy. He taught, protected and comforted them. He was so very proud of them.  Tom had a very special place in his heart for his two beautiful grandchildren.       

Tom is survived by his wife, Jeri, their two sons, Jason (Ashley) and Matthew, two grandchildren, Logan and Cadence, his mother Jeanne Kanzler and six siblings - sisters Barbara Gerteiny (Ernst Manack), Laura Morabito (Eddie Valles), Aimee Kanzler, Ellen Lavorato (Pat),  and brothers, James Kanzler (Janice), John Kanzler (Diane) - sister-in-law Lori Teller-McDonald (Howard Schwartz), brother-in-law, Michael Teller (Claire), nieces, Tatiana Preston (Joe), Jamie Kanzler, Lorelei Kanzler, Brittney McDonald, nephews, Ben Kanzler, Sean McDonald, Eric Teller, great nephew and nieces Boone, Fiona and Brielle Preston and in-laws Alan and Paula Teller.  Tom was preceded in death by his father, Robert Kanzler.

Tom will be dearly missed by all those who had the opportunity to share in his life. A celebration of Tom’s Life will be held this spring with a date to be announced.  

Tom was an avid animal lover. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an animal shelter or rescue of your choice.