A Cherished Leader of the Abbewood Community: Remembering Thomas Emrich

A Cherished Leader of the Abbewood Community: Remembering Thomas Emrich

(from his obituary)

The Abbewood Community honors the life of Thomas Emrich, a deeply cherished member, devoted leader, and steady guiding presence whose influence shaped the neighborhood for more than two decades. Tom passed away at home on Sunday, November 30, 2025, with his beloved wife Ann by his side. Born on Christmas Day in 1941 in Enid, Oklahoma, Tom entered the world like a gift—and throughout his life, he continued to live as one, offering humor, kindness, wisdom, and service to all who knew him.

The son of Veva Cochran and Lt. Colonel Jacob Emrich of the U.S. Army, Tom grew up acquainted with both discipline and heart, qualities that followed him from Eastern Military Academy in Cold Spring Harbor, New York, into a distinguished professional life. As Director of Strategic Planning for LEGO Americas, he helped shape a global brand with creativity, vision, and an almost magical ability to build empires out of tiny bricks—remarkably without ever stepping on one barefoot.

In retirement, Tom devoted more than 20 years to the Abbewood Homeowners Association, serving as both President and Treasurer. Those roles—equal parts diplomacy, logistics, and sheer perseverance—were ones he undertook with steady dedication and a sharp mind for detail. He carried the community through challenges large and small, transforming potential problems into practical solutions with grace and good humor. His leadership helped ensure that Abbewood remained a beautiful, thriving, and welcoming community, and his impact will be felt for years to come.

As fulfilling as his career and service were, Tom’s greatest joy was his life with Ann, whom he married in 1985. Partners in every sense, they shared 40 years of adventure—traveling, golfing, winter escapes to Florida, and, most of all, a deep and enduring companionship. Having met at LEGO, they built not only careers but a life together that was stronger, warmer, and more joyful than any plastic masterpiece they ever assembled. And in a rare twist, Ann may have been the only person who could occasionally win an argument with him.

Tom’s quiet humor and deep resilience made him beloved by friends, colleagues, and family alike. He had a way of grounding any gathering—whether golfing with his LEGO buddies, planning the annual BOTS tournament, or celebrating holidays with family. His two-turkey Thanksgiving dinners became legend, and his mealtime blessings offered a sense of comfort, reflection, and grace.

Tom and Ann shared profound gratitude for Elvis Myers, whose gentle, compassionate care created a space of peace and dignity in Tom’s final days. Their family will remain forever thankful for his presence.

Predeceased by his beautiful daughter Tammy and his beach-loving son Timothy, Tom leaves behind his devoted wife Ann; his sons Thom and Christopher, along with Christopher’s wife Kim; his grandchildren Samantha, Shannon, and Zachery Emrich; and the entire loving Cecchini family, who held a special place in his heart.

Friends and loved ones are invited to gather on Friday, December 12, from 9:30am–11:30am at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon at St. Michael’s Church, 128 Maple Street, East Longmeadow, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Springfield Rescue Mission, 10 Mill Street, Springfield, MA 01108, in honor of Tom’s generous heart.

For online condolences, please visit leetestevens.com.

Tom Emrich will be remembered as a steady leader, a devoted husband, a man of humor and depth, and a treasured part of the fabric of Abbewood. His legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and service—an example that will continue to inspire the community he helped steward for so many years.