Thomas L Volkert

Thomas Volkert, beloved husband of Angela, and devoted father to Vincent and Dexter,
unexpectedly passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 7, 2024. He was the cherished son
of Larry, Susan, Sallie and Steve, and brother of Aaron, David (who predeceased him), Tamara
and Kathleen. Tom was a dear friend to many whose lives he touched.

Born in Middlebury, Vermont on December 9, 1971, Tom graduated from Middlebury Union High
School in 1990. He pursued his passion for science at Middlebury College, earning his BA in
1994, and later completed his MS degree at Tufts University in 1999. It was during his time at
Tufts that he met Angela, and they built their family and life together while living in Cambridge
and Belmont.

Tom was a highly regarded figure in the scientific community, known not only for his professional
achievements but also for his warm personality and collaborative spirit. Tom dedicated nearly 25
years of his career to the Whitehead Institute where he served as Director of the Genome
Technology Core. His contributions to genomic research were widely respected, and he
mentored numerous colleagues and students throughout his tenure. He was also an integral
part of the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF), which he considered family.

Tom’s personal life centered around his love for his family and friends. He was a devoted
husband and father who enthusiastically supported his sons in their passions for games, music
and sports. For many years, Tom played recreational league hockey for the Shooters and
captained the MIT softball team the Biohazards, embodying his love for both science and
sportsmanship.

A visitation to celebrate Tom’s life and share cherished memories with his family and friends
was held at The First Church in Belmont Unitarian Universalist in Belmont on June 21. In lieu of
flowers, donations to support his sons’ future endeavors may be made at
https://gofund.me/1aa8eed7.
Tom will be deeply missed for his kindness, intellect, and unwavering love for his family. His
legacy of dedication to science and community will continue to inspire all who knew him.
“How I wish, how I wish you were here.” – Pink Floyd

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