On September 10, 2025, Thomas J. Stech, of Essex Junction, passed away unexpectedly at his home.

Tom was born on December 6, 1949, to Joseph and Geneva Stech in Burlington, VT and grew up in Winooski, VT where he met his High School Sweetheart, Diane.

Tom started his extensive career in law enforcement with the Winooski Police Department and then moved on to the Colchester Police Department, where he served the community for 30 years. While working with the Colchester Police Department, Tom graduated from the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA and retired as a respected Lieutenant on the force.

Tom filled his time in retirement working at Sunbelt Rental.

In 1970, Tom married his longtime love, Diane, and they moved to Chicago. They then returned to Vermont where they raised their son Jason whom Tom was extremely proud of. Tom and Diane moved to North Carolina for 2 years but returned to Vermont to be closer to family. Together they enjoyed spending time in Myrtle Beach on the ocean and surf fishing. He will be remembered for his love of dogs, especially his early morning rides with his best canine Kenna, the ocean, Christmas light rides with "Emma" his special granddaughter, listening to music, watching movies, and he never missed one of his son's hockey games.

Tom leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Diane, his son Jason (Michelle), and his granddaughter Emilie (Curtis) who was his pride and joy. He also leaves his "bonus" grandchildren, Shelby and Jacob and "bonus" great grandchildren Stella and Tallie, as well as his two favorite dogs Kenna and Rome. Tom was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Geneva, as well as his brother Bruce.

Visiting hours will be on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 11am-1pm at LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service, 132 Main St., Winooski. A graveside service will follow at 1:30pm at St. Stephen's Cemetery on Gorge Street in Winooski, VT.

The Stech Family would like to thank all of the Essex First Responders who acted with much care and thoughtfulness, we appreciate you.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to The Chittenden County Humane Society or an animal shelter of your choice.