Thomas Daniel Cormier

"Thomas Daniel Cormier Sr. has passed away after a long and bravely fought battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He is survived by his loving wife, Trish; Daughters, Shawna and Samantha; Son, Thomas Jr; Brother, David; and Grandson, Finian, as well as extended family and friends, all of whom have their own deeply personal relationship with this incredible man.

Tom was a man of faith, but more importantly, a man of faith in action. Throughout his life, Tom leveraged his personal spirituality to bolster his will to help others. He was, hands-down the most reliable person you would ever meet. He constantly utilized his vast knowledge of carpentry, mechanics, law, and even sociology to contribute to the plight of those in his community and those outside of his community. He once confided that the only reason he became a police officer was to have a steady job so he can raise a family, but later realized he had a passion for the job and it’s opportunities in allowing him to help people in a larger capacity.

During his career as a Detective in the Tucson Police Department, he expanded his knowledge and skills applying them to his colorful career as a detective, working in fields including, but not limited to Internal Affairs, Hostage Negotiation, Dignitary Protection, Vice, and Special Investigations. He was beloved by all of his colleagues, most of whom became life-long friends. During his career, he was faced with countless situations that showed him the dark and dirty side of humanity. These situations would test his faith, but he would never let it break his soul. We think it is important to mention that never once in his career did he fire his weapon on duty. A self-described Peace Officer, his mind was always filled with ways to de-escalate situations and to resolve conflict without harm. His career methodology and mentality should be used as an example and template for all police officers to follow, especially now during these times of growing turbulence.

He loved the great wide open spaces out there: the calm, quiet meditation of fishing, the simple beauty of camping, and the fun-of-the-catch in hunting. (True to character, he ultimately stopped hunting and brought along a camera instead of a gun.) Many beautiful memories were made in the middle of Patagonia lake, the winding road of Old Sonoita Highway, and hills of Rosemont Junction. With every whiff of creosote, every crackle of the fire, and in every glittering night sky, Tom Cormier is there, whispering a tale of the speckled ear mountain shrew, hugging you tight, and asking if you’ve charged your phone. He was always prepared. Not just for himself, but any issue that would come up for anyone along the way.

He had respect for everyone on this earth and for every living being. A carpenter, he had respect for the wood he carved and the tools he used to create. There was not one person, place, or thing that didn’t have his respect. Nothing was taken for granted.

When no one got our jokes, he would be there to laugh. When no one else was there to notice our sorrow, he was there to comfort us. When no one else noticed our happiness, he was there to share our joy. He noticed everything: the ultimate detective because it wasn’t just to solve a case, but to see into someone’s soul.

Most of all, Tom will be remembered for his compassion and humor. His thunderous laugh is forever etched in the memories of those lucky enough to have known him. Known to be a rascal from time to time (well, most of the time), he loved playing little tricks on his family and friends. He saw the beauty in humor and would force those around him to see that they can let their guard down and just laugh at the chaos that surrounds us. He brought “Dad jokes” to a new level. His spirit was unparalleled.

His love for his wife, Trish burned brighter than all. He was so incredibly proud to be in her presence. Their relationship and love for each other is an inspiration to all. This love was shared in equal doses to their children, who they raised to be ambitious, and artistic independent thinkers.

There’s a classic camping rule that Tom lived by: leave it better than you found it. No matter where he went, he left the place better than he found it.

Tom will be missed and never forgotten. The legacy of his goodwill, passion, and humor is evident all around us, and will persist beyond temporal time.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Tucson Community Food Bank."