My deepest sympathy goes out to Thomas's family, friends and sailing companions!  Thomas was a great instructor, mentor; and someone you did not hesitate to call a friend.  

One of my fondest memories was Thomas standing on the dock, behind the boat I was backing into a slip.  He gave me the well-recognized umpire signal and called me safe, after I, somewhat gracefully, secured the boat in the slip!

He was a great sailor, friend and will be dearly missed on the docks at GN. new home, the Brickyard.  Fairwinds, warm days and beautiful sunsets my friend!

Great maritime instructor. Good person. 
Very knowledgeable and very brave.

My friend, Thomas Perry. 

I learned today (Jul 10) that Thomas has passed away. I knew him well as a friend and co-worker, and I've been trying for years to get him out on the water with me, even before he retired from Club Nautique.

Thomas aged quickly in his last year at CN, as I remember. He had health issues. I'll miss him dearly. We always joked around with each other. He was so serious with his students but never with me.

Back in the day, we'd play tricks on each other. My favorite was when David Scott and I hid a wind-up alarm clock in Thomas' cabin, set to go off at 0200 on his overnight CPM class boat. We actually unscrewed a panel and hid the clock behind it. Thomas was always trying to get me back for that one. 

And in the early years, I nominated Thomas for the US Sailing Instructor of the Year award. He was so dedicated to teaching his students the best he could. Thomas had high standards for himself and his students. We all benefited immensely from having Thomas in our lives.  Thomas was a fixture at Club Nautique, and it wasn't the same without him. 

RIP my friend.  8 BELLS for you.  

- Arnstein Mustad

Thomas helped me with my starter on my 1991 Corvette when I had starting problems.

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Thomas Edward Perry

December 16, 1958 – April 7, 2026

Montecito Memorial Park and Mortuary

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