Obituary of Teofils F. "Tom" Turlais

Teofils “Tom” Francis Turlais, age 79 of Halfmoon severed his earthly bonds on Friday, April 9, 2021 due to complications from a stroke. He was born on December 21, 1941 in Karsava, Latvia, and was the son of the late Gilers and and Leokadija “Lucy” Turlais. He was predeceased by his younger brother Villem. Fleeing Latvia, Teofils and his family traveled to Germany and then emigrated to the United States, landing in Mississippi working as sharecroppers. It was there that Teofils was dubbed “Tom” by the overseer. Eventually, Tom and his family settled in Albany. Tom’s schooling included Our Lady of Angels elementary school, Cardinal McCloskey High School and Siena College where he excelled in the field of physics. Tom received his Master’s at Stevens College. His work history included being a nuclear refueling engineer at the West Milton site. Tom was a true Renaissance Man – embracing both science and science fiction and the classics in literature, music, and art. He enjoyed photography, and capturing just the right moment in time. He is survived by his life partner, best friend, and caregiver, June Lacijan, and her sons Peter (Melissa), Daniel (Julie), and Patrick (Christie), and their children who called him “Grandpa Tom.” He is also survived by his goddaughter Eileen Gilmartin and longtime friends Judy (Al) Farrell, Alan (Nancy) Baumes and his feline companion, Puss. Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 16th from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Catricala Funeral Home Inc., 1597 Route 9, Clifton Park, with a funeral Mass following at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 86 Church Hill Rd., in Crescent. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Halfmoon-Waterford Fire District, P.O. Box 276, 315 Middletown Rd., Waterford, NY 12188.