Tom carried a playful spirit through life—quick with a funny saying, generous with his time, and always ready to bring warmth and laughter into any room. He was a devoted father, a supportive husband, loyal brother, and a loving son.

He was known for giving people nicknames (whether they wanted one or not) and for the hilarious sayings that would roll off his tongue and stay in the family forever. Nothing made him happier than sharing a favorite song, dancing without hesitation, and encouraging everyone else to join along. He had a special gift for turning an ordinary afternoon into an adventure.

Tom grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. As a boy, he went by “Tommy.” He was the middle child of five and the family jokester from a young age. He made friends wherever he went and showed an entrepreneurial spirit early in life—learning to make jewelry from Indigenous children on the nearby reservations and catching bearded dragons to sell. He would often tell his siblings in a silly voice, “I’m Victor Mature, because I’m so mature,” fully aware that he was really quite the opposite.

As a young man, Tom put himself through college by starting his own landscaping business. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Mexico. Later in life, he returned to school and earned a Master’s degree in Education. Once he put his mind to a task, there was no goal too big for him.

After college, Tom accepted a position with IBM, which brought him to California—where he met his wife. Together, they built a life and raised three children. California became home, and he never stopped marveling at its beauty. He loved long walks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and photographing landscapes, birds, and especially flowers. He found joy in the small and beautiful details of life and in sharing those moments with others.

Tom took great pride in supporting his children, family, and friends. He was the steady hand—the one you called for help with taxes, resumes, complicated paperwork, or life’s tougher decisions. He would pick up the phone or drive to his children and help whenever he could. He especially loved getting his hands dirty and working on projects in the yard. He reminded his children to stay true to themselves—to be authentic in who they were, as long as they were good people. He was their biggest cheerleader, doing everything in his power to help them accomplish their dreams.

Though he loved California, New Mexico always held a sacred place in his heart. He delighted in pointing out films shot there and reminiscing about “The Land of Enchantment.” Whenever his family in New Mexico needed him, he would be there. He returned home many times to care for his elderly parents, and his dear sister who passed before him, ensuring they were all comfortable and supported. It was a chapter that reflected his deep loyalty, compassion, and unwavering sense of family responsibility.

One of the most meaningful gifts he gave his children was a carefully planned trip to New Mexico, the place that shaped him. He drove them to his favorite spots, told stories of his youth, and shared the history and beauty of the land he loved. It was more than a trip—it was his way of passing down identity, pride, and connection.

Tom’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he steadied and brightened—through his kindness, his humor, his love of nature and music, and yes, his famous spreadsheets.

Thomas Ray Norero was born on April 22, 1955, and passed away on February 12, 2026. In the few years of sickness, he was lovingly cared for by his children in California. He is now reunited with his parents, Miguel and Carrie, and his sister, Darlene. He is survived by his children, Ryan Norero, Jennifer Piccinino, and Julianne Forgach; his siblings, Karen Easley, Carla Hart, and Mike Norero; and his beloved grandchildren, Mariah, Faye, Troy Forgach, and Casper Ray Piccinino.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever quoted.

A memorial mass will be held on March 16 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM.

A lunch and celebration of life will be held afterward at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Park Foundation or supporting efforts to Help Fight Alzheimer’s disease.