Thomas Closser

Thomas G. Closser of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully at his home on January 25, 2015. He was born on November 9, 1937, in Bradford, PA. He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Irene (Coast) Closser, his brother Robert W. Closser, nephew Edward Closser, and brothers-in-law John Barno and Bernard Eck. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 31 years, Elaine (Barno) Closser; nephew Robert E. (Cheryl) Closser, Lakewood, NY; niece Suzanne Coast, Larkspur, CO; sisters-in-law Marilyn Eck, Endwell, NY; Barbara (John) Haley, Hudson, NH; Jane (Michael) Coleman, Endwell, NY; Lorraine Barno, Cocoa, FL; and many nieces and nephews. Tom graduated from Bradford High School, Bradford, PA. He received his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Syracuse University, with private bassoon instruction at the Eastman School of Music. He received his Master of Music in Bassoon Performance from Binghamton University, where he studied with the New York Woodwind Quintet. He completed further graduate work at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, NY, where he received Certification in School Administration. Tom was a bassoon performer extraordinaire. He played under the direction of Aaron Copland, Lukas Foss, Peter Schickele and many others. He was a charter member of the Binghamton Symphony founded by Fritz Wallenberg. In addition, he performed with the Syracuse Opera and Symphony, the Tri-Cities Opera, the Binghamton Symphony and Binghamton Pops Orchestras. For many years Tom handcrafted single and double reeds for woodwind musicians all around the world. His knowledge of music and the bassoon was recognized by all he encountered. He authored the New York State Syllabus for Double Reeds. Tom taught instrumental music at St. Bonaventure University as well as several New York school districts before retiring from the Binghamton City School District after 20 years of service. He was known for making rigorous demands on his students and giving them the tools with which to meet his high expectations. He took great pride in the achievements of those whom he taught. Tom’s other interests included art, world cultures, history and nature. These served him well when he pursued a second career as an antique dealer and auctioneer. Tom Closser Auctions was the first local house to offer on-line auction participation. His staff audience, consignors and many cherished colleagues will miss his expertise, his kind and gentle manner, his somewhat pointed sense of humor and his genuine enthusiasm and love for the auction experience. The family would like to acknowledge and thank Tom’s team of medical experts, whom he considered to be not only extraordinary physicians, but also his personal friends. Funeral Services Friday 9:30 am from the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Ambrose Church at 10 am. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home Thursday from 2-4 and evening 6-8 pm.