Thomas Richard Wolski

Cambridge - Thomas Richard Wolski, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and veterinarian, passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the age of 76. Born in Queens, New York, to Virginia and Michael Wolski, Tom grew up in Bethpage, Long Island, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for animals and nature.

A graduate of Bethpage High School, Tom pursued his dream of becoming a veterinarian by attending Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine, from which he graduated in 1971. Shortly after, while visiting Wilmington, Vermont, he met his soulmate, Jan. They married that same year, embarking on a journey filled with love for fifty-three years of commitment and shared adventures.

Tom had an insatiable curiosity and a love for travel and exploration. He and Jan spent six memorable months in Africa, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and capturing the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti through his lens. 

Their daughter, Jill, was born in 1976 in Arcata, California. Their son Christopher was born in Ithaca, New York where Thomas pursued a PhD at Cornell University in animal behavior. In 1984, the family relocated to Cambridge, New York, where Tom established Cambridge Valley Veterinary Hospital, serving the greater Cambridge community for over 30 years.

Tom made significant contributions to the Cambridge community, serving on the school board for 10 years. He was also a member of the Battenkill chorale under the direction of Janet McGhee. Additionally, Tom enjoyed coaching and organizing youth soccer and was instrumental in cultivating the first girls' soccer team at Cambridge Central School in Cambridge, New York. He was known for his infectious laugh, big personality, and sense of humor, always making people feel welcome and cared for.

In his later years, Tom enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, especially following their academic and athletic endeavors. An avid photographer, he recently traveled to Norway to photograph the northern lights and to Namibia to capture wildlife and the night sky. He was especially accomplished at photographing celestial objects and most recently, fireflies.

Tom and Jan were founders of the Turning Point Rowing Club in Schuylerville, New York, and were instrumental in building their boathouse. They rowed on the Hudson River daily throughout the summer. He was also an avid cross-country skier, participating in long races such as the Birkebeiner and Vasaloppet.  Tom cultivated his children as ski racers in the Bill Koch League and the Mid-Atlantic Ski Team and was a trip leader for the Mid-Atlantic Ski Team to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1996.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Jan Wolski, and his cherished daughter, Jill Wolski. Tom was a proud grandfather to Andrea and Alexander Ordoñez, who brought immense joy to his later years. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Michele, Lori, and Denise.

Tom was predeceased by his son, Christopher Wolski, whose memory he carried close to his heart.

Tom had decided to generously donate his body for medical education and research purposes. 

A celebration of life will be held at LaKota Farm, 99 County Route 62, Cambridge, NY on Sunday, August 11th at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cambridge Food Pantry, PO Box 473 Cambridge, NY 12816.

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