Thomas J. Cardone

Thomas J. Cardone, 65, passed away on March 26, 2026. He was born and raised in New Britain, CT and was the son of the late Nino and Aldria (Balducci) Cardone. Tom built a life rooted in hard work, and deep devotion to the people he loved. He spent 30 years working at Central Connecticut State University, where he formed lasting friendships and took pride in being part of a community he cared for deeply.

Tom found his greatest peace outdoors. Whether tending to his garden, wandering along wooded trails, or teaching his daughters how to chop wood, shoot a gun and play with power tools. He was a fun dad with some strong dad jokes, also when his daughters were younger he would let them sit on his lap and taught them how to drive on quiet country roads. He also taught them the importance of direction. Making sure they always knew where they were and how to get home. He had a little bit of an ego which taught his daughters to be strong women. He will be remembered for the little sayings that made tasks easier. He shared his knowledge with patience and humor. He had a knack for turning everyday moments into lessons — the kind that stay with you long after the moment has passed.

A talented cook and lifelong fan of 70s rock, Tom filled his home with the smells of simmering sauces and the soundtrack of the music he grew up with. He was equally at home with a hammer in his hand, crafting and fixing with the quiet satisfaction of someone who understood the beauty of working with wood. Carpentry wasn’t just a hobby for him; it was a way of creating things that lasted and memories with his father, much like the memories he leaves behind.

Tom is survived by his two daughters, Katie Cardone and her partner Tyler Knox of Burlington, and Tiana Cardone of Berlin. He also leaves behind his former wife and lifelong friend, Pamela Sullivan of Kensington, with whom he shared many years of family, friendship, and mutual respect. He also leaves behind his beloved grandson, Dominick Benmaor of Burlington.

He is also survived by his sisters, Linda and Jeff Gambino of Newington, and Lisa and Scott Skates of Berlin; and his nieces Monica and Dayna Gambino, and Danielle and Justin Skates. Each of them carries a piece of his humor, his warmth, and his unwavering loyalty.

Tom lived a life defined not by grand gestures, but by steady love — the kind that shows up, teaches, listens, and builds. His legacy lives on in the gardens he tended, the trails he walked, the meals he cooked, and the family he adored.

He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain. Calling hours are Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 4-7 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Hwy., Berlin. In lieu of flowers, memorial donation may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude PL, Memphis TN 38105-9959