Published October 30, 2020
MELROSE — Thomas Robert Vreeland, 46, of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 19 in his home.
Tom was the loving son of Lydia M. (Martinez) Vreeland and the late Robert W. Vreeland. Tom was born in Melrose on Sept. 30, 1974, and graduated from Melrose High School in 1992. Tom, or Tommy as he was known by many of those who loved him, spent most of his adult life as a letter carrier for the US Postal Service, where he was well known and loved by both his co-workers and the families he served in the community of Winthrop.
Tommy was an avid Boston sports fan and spent many Sundays cheering on his beloved Patriots in Foxboro and summer nights cheering on the Red Sox at Fenway. He enjoyed all types of music from the Beatles to Kiss and loved going to concerts with his friends.
Tommy had a smile that would light up a room and the unique ability to put a smile on everyone’s face whenever they saw him. He had the biggest heart you can imagine and always put his family and friends above himself no matter where he was or what he was doing.
Tom had an incredibly special relationship with his mother, Lydia, who was not only his mom but his best friend. The two loved to travel and spend a lot of time together as Tommy included her in all aspects of his life. Their bond was truly one of a kind.
Tommy was the nicest and most respectful person you can imagine and did not have one mean bone in his body.
He will be greatly missed by his mom, Lydia, his family and friends who will try to carry out his legacy for the world to see.
Visiting hours were held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, and a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Mary’s Church, 9 Herbert St., Melrose. Burial was private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tommy’s memory can be made to the American Heart Association, 300 5th Ave., Waltham, MA 02451. To sign online condolences, visit www.gatelyfh.com.
