Contributions to the tribute of Frederic C. Tourelle

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Monday, February 11, 2019

Mr. Tourelle was as “the” teacher who made “the” difference in my life at Madison High School. A skull & cross bones, with the bones made from cigarettes, hanging over his door. New words of wisdom perfectly lettered a top his blackboard every day. And operas & symphonies in the background. When I crossed the threshold to enter his class I felt like I was somebody and that I could be somebody. And not because it it was easy. When he checked those drawings with that red pencil it could be brutal. But after awhile we got his message - details mattered and “we” mattered. Thank You Mr. Tourelle. Joe DeMaria Madison High School Class 1975

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Ken Johanson posted a condolence

Monday, February 11, 2019

I first met Fred (or Mr. Tourelle, as he was known to me and my classmates at the time) when he taught shop in the New Providence school system. He was a great shop teacher, but he was so much more than that. Even at a young age I realized how much he had to offer, how much he cared about his students and how much I had to learn from him. When I began high school I took Fred's mechanical drawing class, not so much because I needed the class (I eventually went on to become a lawyer) but because it gave me a chance to spend more time with Fred. He encouraged me to make the most of myself and helped me to cultivate my intellectual curiosity. At one point I remember him lending me copies of a magazine that included thought provoking articles on a wide range of topics. The magazine was called "Wisdom," a topic in which Fred was well versed. After beginning college I did stop by the high school and caught up with Fred, but after that I lost contact with him. I had hoped to invite him to my 40th high school reunion in 2000, but could not locate him. But I did include the following in the class directory in response to the question: "Who was the teacher who had the greatest impact on your life?" - "Fred Tourelle, who taught me the value of knowledge for its own sake." I think that pretty much sums it up.

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Joe Robinson posted a condolence

Monday, February 11, 2019

Mr. Tourelle was a great man, loved by many. He taught me skills and discipline that were more useful than any of my other classes. As an architect, I also used math, English, physics, etc., but drafting was a daily skill. Even in the age of AutoCAD, the fundamentals I learned in the 1970s apply.

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Mercedes Maldonado posted a condolence

Monday, February 11, 2019

As the days continue to pass, I hope you find comfort and support in the people that surround you and the wonderful memories you carry in your heart. May the words of Psalm 34:18 “ Jehovah God is near to those that are broken at heart...” bring the entire family comfort and strength. Please accept my sincere condolences.

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Janet Doherty posted a condolence

Monday, February 11, 2019

One of the best at MHS.....Thoughts & prayers to his family & friends

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Andrea Burke posted a condolence

Sunday, February 10, 2019

Seeing Mr. Tourelle’s picture this morning brought back a flood of fond memories. He was my drafting teacher when I was a freshman at Madison High School. I think I was the only girl in the class, so it was a little intimidating. Mr. Tourelle always made me feel comfortable, like I belonged there. He nurtured my interest in technical drawing, architecture and design. I had dreamed of becoming an architect, but ended up majoring in graphic design; later becoming an art and technology teacher. The foundation was built with him guiding and encouraging me. I continue to use all that I learned from him with my own students today. His family should be proud that he lead such a meaningful life that touched so many young people. He will be missed.

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Colleen Pizzo posted a condolence

Friday, February 8, 2019

My fondest memories of Fred were spent at his house. He greeted me in his driveway with a hug every visit. His house was perfectly kept, and preserved in its 1950's motif. My finest times with Fred were spent sitting and talking with him. He ALWAYS had a witty story that made me chuckle, or life lesson he wanted to share. The stories I enjoyed the most were those about his years as an educator. He loved his job and truly cared about his students, and they adored him. He was one of the most thoughtful and generous people I knew, and always ready to lend a hand. He is a great uncle to my daughters, Erin and Emma Smith. Even in his late 80's he would run around and play with them with more energy than most 30 year olds. Fred, you were a treasure and will be greatly missed.

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Kevin W Smith lit a candle

Friday, February 8, 2019

A dear man, beloved by all He met, dedicated to improving the world s he saw it. Inspirational to more than we will ever know. My role model my Uncle.

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The family of Frederic C. Tourelle uploaded a photo

Friday, February 8, 2019

Frederic C. Tourelle

1919 - 2019

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