Thomas R. Bertolino, age 90, passed away December 6, 2025 at home
from general organ failure. He was born June 20, 1935 to Edward (HS
Principal and Coach) and Vivian (Grade school teacher and community
pianist) Bertolino, Nokomis, Illinois. Tom graduated from Nokomis High
School in 1953 and from the University of Illinois in 1958 earning a Master
in Electrical Engineering with High Honors. He met Shirley Clark during
Summer 1957 employment in Chicago. They were married August 23, 1958
and moved to San Diego where he was employed at Astronautics working
on the Atlas and then Centaur missile guidance systems.
His goal to become an educator was met September 1965 as an
engineering and math instructor at Ventura College which continued until
he retired in 2000. Tom then taught part time at the College for 5 more
years, plus tutoring at Holy Cross School.
The second benefit of his teaching was summer vacations with time to take
the family to visit relatives in Illinois, camping, to 4 campuses the 4
summers he won National Science Foundation course scholarships, and to
Scotland in 1980-81 for a year of teaching at Thurso Technical College.
Tom was an active instructor on campus serving on many committees. He
was treasurer of the San Diego chapter of CORE. As other issues arose
over the years, he actively supported many like-minded political
candidates. Tom volunteered at the County Fair, read Scientific Journals,
eagerly attended plays and concerts, enjoyed picnics, a bowl of popcorn,
watched science fiction movies and TV programs, listened to “Prairie Home
Companion” radio shows. He supported his children’s sports, music, dance,
club, and school events with never failing attendance, love, and respect.
Tom was an intense forward-thinking environmentalist before the word
came into common lexicon. He saved newspapers early and helped start
the Saturday recycling program at Ventura College, served on the first City
bicycling committee, SOAR, Zero Population Growth, a wizard at repairing
things (especially electric appliances), was frugal with use of water and
utilities, lifetime example in all aspects. Bicycling was his transportation
mode 85% of the time.
Thomas is survived by his life companion of 67 years, Shirley. He has been
a beloved father to his children – Lisa Mueting (William), Jon Bertolino
(Michelle), and Linda Viles (Andrew). He was a role model grandfather to
Tess, Max, Ivan, Nadia, Mackenzie, Taylor, Ryan, Zachary, Emily and Darren
and 4 greatgrandchildren. Tom was proceeded in death by his parents,
sister Barbara and grandson Nicholas. His ashes will be spread with official
sanction at Yosemite National Park by his children.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 16 th at 11:00AM at
the at the BOYKO & REARDON TELEGRAPH ROAD MORTUARY & CREMATION,
15 Teloma Drive, Ventura. The family invites attendees to stay for a catered picnic style
reception in the community room for friends, neighbors, fellow college
instructors and his students to continue the Celebration.
The family wants to acknowledge the loving care given by granddaughter,
Nadia Mueting, the dedicated support of Devoted Care Services, and
Assisted Living Hospice.