Theodore Thomas Tansi, 90

Franklin resident, Theodore Thomas Tansi (Ted), 90, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, March 7th.

He was born on May 8th, 1931 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Bonfiglio and Anna (Ampolini) Tansi. He was a graduate of St. George’s School in Newport, Rhode Island and earned a degree in Economics from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut.

He is survived by his former wife Sydney Bartlett Tansi of Manchester, CT and four children; William Tansi and wife Joan of Wrentham, MA; Robert Tansi of Quincy, MA; Anna Tansi of East Hartford, CT; and Thomas Tansi and wife Merideth of Camden, ME. He is also survived by five grandchildren; Sarah Tansi, Benjamin Tansi, Andrew Aramini, Caroline Aramini, and William Tansi. He was predeceased by his three sisters, Tina, Marcella (Skippy), and Adelaide.

As a teenager, Ted watched Brooklyn Dodgers games at Ebbets Field. Staff would let him in the outfield entrance and he sat in the bleachers with his friends.

Ted was a First Lieutenant in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he transferred to The Reserves where he attained the rank of Captain.

He went on to work for IBM, CG, and Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance before being elected First Selectman of Simsbury, Connecticut where he lived for 30 years.

After his retirement, Ted moved to Florida where he met Mary McGeary who became his companion during the later years of his life. He was an avid golfer and a competitive card player who frequented the poker rooms around Bonita Springs, FL. He was known for his hearty, signature laugh and always had a joke, one-liner, or a story to share with the intent of lifting someone’s spirits or making them smile.

Ted believed that studying philosophy at Trinity College changed his life. He started looking at the world differently – with a critical eye, and he realized the infinite possibilities that existed. It was just a matter of focusing on the goal and working hard. He considered life to be a gift and a privilege. He stated many times that the purpose of life is giving time, love, substance, and humor which brings happiness to those you touch.

Ted will be missed by his family and all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date to be determined.

The Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. is honored to assist the Tansi family.