Obituary of Thomas Joseph Rinaldi

Thomas J. Rinaldi, affectionately known as “TJ” to his family, and fondly known as “Tommy” and “TomCat” to his co-workers and friends, passed away on February 8, 2024 in Kingston, New York. Born to Thomas and Christine Rinaldi on April 12, 1979, in Poughkeepsie, New York. TJ was a cherished member of the Ulster County Community throughout his 44 years.

A proud graduate of Rondout Valley High School in 1998, TJ furthered his education at the Ulster Community College and earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice in 2000. For the past 23-plus years TJ has been employed by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office as a Correction Officer. Additionally, he was a part of the elite S.E.R.T. (Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team). He was a dedicated and compassionate civil servant who received various awards throughout his career.

In 2013, TJ married his love and fellow Correction Officer, Christina Abadsidis and together built a beautiful family. TJ was a devoted father to his children Joseph A. Rinaldi and George A. Rinaldi, and stepchildren Alexa C. Abadsidis, Christina A. Abadsidis and Michael S. Abadsidis.

TJ enjoyed the outdoors, whether it was fishing, hiking, camping, tending to his garden of tomato and zucchini plants or off roading on his ATV. With years of practice, TJ perfected his craft of making maple syrup in our own backyard. He was an avid reader and a huge history buff.

He cherished spending time with his children watching funny videos, playing cops and robbers and hide and seek or just watching them ride their bikes outside.

TJ’s legacy is carried on by his wife Christina, his children Joseph and George, stepchildren Alexa, Christina and Michael, his parents Thomas and Christine Rinaldi, his sister Theresa (Jon) Nezezon and his nieces Erin, Alex and Catherine Nezezon. His aunts, uncles and cousins will also feel his absence, as well as his many friends and colleagues.

The following services will be held to honor TJ’s life:

Visitation:

Tuesday, February 13, 2024 (4:00 - 8:00 pm)

Location:

Kimisis Greek Orthodox Church 140 S. Grand Ave. Poughkeepsie, NY 12603.

Funeral Service:

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 (10:00 am)

Location:

Kimisis Greek Orthodox Church 140 S. Grand Ave. Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. Burial will follow at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please donate to either:

Ulster County Sheriff’s Foundation

MEMO: In honor of Officer Thomas J. Rinaldi

ATTN: Wellness Unit Coordinator 380 Boulevard Kingston, NY 12401

Or                                        

DC 10-13 Foundation of the Hudson Valley

P.O. Box 352 Hopewell Junction, NY 12533

MEMO: In honor of Officer Thomas J. Rinaldi