Tommy Bonnano a Remembrance By Christopher Annino

Thomas Bonanno was one of the truest friends anyone could ask for. His career in the Human Services field spanned almost three decades, but his zest for life and music will go on for eternity. He departed this world peacefully, as he had lived, on April 6, 2020. He was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife Maureen. He leaves two sons, Adam and Timothy, a Godson, and a large family including nieces, nephews, cousins, two sisters, a brother, and a brother-in-law from his dear sister Linda who predeceased him. Additionally, his passing leaves a hole in the hearts of scores of dear Connecticut friends, especially in the New London/Niantic/Waterford area.
Tommy worked for many years at the Seaside Regional Center near Harkness Park in Waterford. He was a Program Supervisor and a strong advocate for all people, but especially for those with intellectual and physical disabilities. He formed lifelong friendships during his decades-long career at Seaside, not only with staff, but also with many who lived there, including one special friend, (who also had the same initials as Tommy), who as a young boy became a very special member of Tommy and Maureen’s wedding party. Tommy loved Seaside, and often referred to it as his home and family. Even after it closed, he could often be found visiting the grounds and watching the sunsets.
His true loves were the two “M’s”: Maureen and music. “Music is what keeps me going,” he would say, having became hugely involved when, as students at Southern Connecticut State University, he and Maureen first saw their favorite band of all time, “The Scratch Band” with G.E. Smith, Christine Ohlman, Vic Steffens, Mickey Curry, Paul Ossola, Tommy MacGregor, and Robert Orsi. During his years dedicated to working at Seaside, the Scratch Band would often perform for those there, playing both the yearly prom and the “Christmas in August” celebration, always with Tommy’s great participation and help.
Tommy loved to volunteer his services at the concerts, and later became the number one “merch cat” in the New England music scene. He was a valued member of Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez’s touring team. However, beyond what he lent as a truly gifted salesman and historian of the band, he acted more as a guide and mentor always lending kindness and support. Tommy Bonanno was the type of person who would give you a dollar when he only had seventy- five cents. He always rooted for the underdog and his music is what fueled him during the bad times. He loved artists like Bonny Bramlett, Mavis Staples, Linda Ronstadt, Bob Dylan and Freddy King, whose recordings kept him company during long road trips to gigs. He could make you laugh and make you a better person as he hummed classic soul songs. Tommy will forever have a place in the heart of so many well-known musicians as a well-respected music connoisseur and historian.
Tommy Bonanno’s life embodied the real reason why a musician should perform. The Tommy Bonanno Spirit Award will be presented at the 2020 New England Music Hall of Fame www.newenglandmusichof.com Aug 19, 2020 in his memory and honor at The Phoenix in Pawcatuck, Ct.