Thomas N. Stein, 83, Helped Design Heating System For First Rocket Into Space

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FRAMINGHAM – Thomas N. Stein, 83, of Framingham, passed away in his sleep on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Manor, after battling Pancreatic Cancer and other health conditions.

His beloved wife of 55 years, Lois “Ronnie” (Taylor) Stein, predeceased him on January 10, 2020.

He leaves his cherished children Brian Stein (and wife Julie), Valerie Montuori (and husband Christopher) and daughter in law Maria Stein; his six adored grandchildren Jacob (and wife Kelsey), Kassi, Thomas, Isabella, Konstantine, Harrison and his great-granddaughter Alexandria.

Born and raised in Albany, MN, he was the son of the late William “Red” Stein Jr. and Eulalia (Neutzling) Stein. He leaves his much loved siblings and their spouses: Catherine “Kay”(Stein) Balletto, Alice (Stein) and William “Bill” Bolen, John and Joyce (Norgaard) Stein, Jerome “Jerry” and Marlene “Tobi” (Meyer) Stein and the late Wayne Stein as well as many nieces and nephews.

Tom was a graduate of Albany High School, class of 1957, where he played the trumpet in band and orchestra, sang in the chorus and was part of the school play. He also played football, basketball and was a letterman. Tom was Salutatorian of his graduating class.

After graduating High School, Tom served in the Army and then the Army Reserves from 1957-1964 when he received an honorable discharge. While in the Army Reserves, Tom attended St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN and graduated with a B.A. in Physics and Math in 1962.

His love of Space brought him to California to work as a Associate Engineer specializing in Thermal/ Acoustical engineering in the Douglass Missile & Space Division for Douglas Aircraft and then later with Barry Controls.

One of his greatest accomplishments was helping design the heating systems for the first rockets that went into space.

He received the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award from NASA for “Recognition of Outstanding Contributions”. This award was presented to him by Astronaut Walter “Wally” Schirrra.

While in California, he met his wife Ronnie and they had their two children, Brian and Valerie. Tom and his family eventually moved east and settled in Framingham, MA. He earned his Masters Degree in Engineering Management in 1972.

Tom worked for Badger American, Inc. for many decades as their Chief Specialist Engineer in Thermal/ Acoustics. He also started their first Chess Club! After his retirement he was sought after and worked for Cavanaugh & Tocci Associates and Stone & Webster, Inc. as a consultant.

During his leisure time Tom and Ronnie traveled all over the world where they had many wonderful adventures together.

He and Ronnie taught Pre-Cana at St. Bridget’s Church for many years.

Tom was also the Assistant Scout Master for Troop 21 in Saxonville.

Tom loved the outdoors and was an avid golfer, fisherman and hunter. He also loved to cook, especially making home made bread and his famous pumpkin pie! He loved to play chess and cards and was an excellent Bridge player.

Our Dad was a quiet man but he was the first person to help a beloved neighbor in need as well as to stop and help a complete stranger. He will be dearly missed.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his funeral service with military honors on Saturday March 4, 2023 at 11:30 am at Norton Funeral Home 53 Beech St. Framingham, MA 01702.

At the family’s request, there will be no visiting hours.

Expressions of sympathy can be made in Tom’s name to the National Pancreatic Foundation(NPF) @ https://pancreasfoundation.org/ where there is a link to donate.

To leave a message of condolence, sign the online guestbook or for directions please visit www.nortonfuneralhome.com

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