Thomas B. Anderson
Thomas B. Anderson, South Burlington, VT, died November 5, 2024.
Tom was a distinguished professor of medieval history at Saint Michael’s College for 42 years. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was a longtime resident of Essex, VT, but was more recently living in South Burlington.
He enjoyed a lifelong Catholic education, which shaped both his personal and professional life. He received his bachelor’s degree from Saint Peter’s College, a Jesuit institution in Jersey City, New Jersey. He went on to earn both a master’s degree and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in history from Fordham University. These formative educational experiences laid the foundation for his career as both an educator and historian.
For over four decades, Dr. Andersen dedicated his career to Saint Michael’s College where he was a beloved and respected professor in the History Department. As the faculty advisor for Phi Alpha Theta, the history national honor society, he cultivated a strong academic community that emulated his passion for intellectual rigor and academic discourse. He was also a staunch supporter of the Honors Program at the college.
Dr. Andersen was particularly renowned for his courses on Early Modern Europe, the Black Death, and on one of his favorite topics, the Honors section on witchcraft. His lectures, known for their scholarly depth and engaging delivery, left a lasting impression on generations of students.
Outside the classroom, Tom loved being outdoors. For more than 30 years, Mallet’s Bay, the Champlain Marina, and Thayer Beach were a central part of his spring and summer life. An avid boater, he found joy and solace on the waters of Lake Champlain where he would relax and reflect aboard his boat, aptly named, “Camelot.” His family and friends will fondly remember the many trips to Westport, Burton Island, and the hilarious “knighting ceremonies” he bestowed upon new members of the Champlain Club. With historical details important to him, these events always included the requisite swords, scrolls, and laurel wreathes.
Dr. Andersen was known for his warmth, generosity, and keen sense of humor. He could offer thoughtful perspectives on any topic, from the complexities of ancient Roman society to life’s simpler pleasures, such as the Curse of the Bambino or Schilling’s “Bloody sock.”
The family is grateful to all of those who cared selflessly for Tom and allowed him the dignity to leave this world in the manner he wanted, at home and surrounded by family; especially the caregivers from UVM Home Health and Hospice.
Tom is survived by his wife of 57 years, JoAnn Mary Andersen (Burgess), two sons, two daughters and extended family.
The family requests memorial donations be made in Dr. Andersen’s memory to Saint Michael’s College Fire and Rescue, in care of Saint Michael’s College, One Winooski Park, Colchester, Vermont, USA 05439.