Thomas Robert Kline

Thomas Robert Kline, 81, of Eastham, MA passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, December 30, 2024. He was born and raised in Quincy, MA and lived in Andover before moving to Eastham 9 years ago.

He was the only son of the late Raymond and Nellie (Asimacopoulos) Kline. Growing up, Tom was actively involved in the drum corps, and participated in track and field, basketball and football which led him to his teaching and physical education career. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston University where he joined the ROTC program. His family had always been in the military. Tom felt military duty, honor and country were something we should all live by as a nation. Shortly after graduation, he was called to active duty and was stationed in Fort Sill, OK and Fort Hood, TX. 1st Lieutenant Thomas Robert Kline was one of the first 10,000 Army reservists deployed to Vietnam where he was a platoon leader and military police. When released from his tour, Tom was stationed at Fort Devens where he was in charge of New England military police operations. After the service, he returned to Boston University and completed his master’s degree and certificate of advanced graduate study.

Tom dedicated himself to education and athletics as a Physical Education and Health teacher at Winchester High School. A passionate coach of wrestling, football for 25 years and track for 44 years, he inspired countless students and athletes with his guidance and encouragement.

A true gentleman, Tom found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: time with family and friends, sharing stories, and forming meaningful connections. Known for his warmth and kindness, he had an extraordinary gift for turning strangers into friends. Tom enjoyed fishing and travelling, but above all else, he loved his family and adored his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth “Beth” (Sheppard) Kline, daughter Kirstin Kline Ferreira and her husband Tarcisio of Uxbridge, son Nicholas Kline and his wife Michelle of North Andover and his cherished grandchildren Lucy Kline, Quincy Kline, Felicity Ferreira, Adeline Ferreira and Nellie Kline: his “sunshines” who brought him boundless joy.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, January 15th at Rosaria Restaurant, 190 Main Street, Saugus, MA from 4:00 – 8:00 pm.

Graveside services with US Army military honors will take place at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s name to the Winchester High School Track Team, 80 Skillings Road, Winchester, MA 01890.

Tom’s legacy of love, dedication, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.