Thomas C. Ryzewski, age 66, of Thompson, CT, formerly of Webster, MA, died Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at UMASS Memorial Health Care, Worcester.

He leaves his daughter, Laura and her husband Lyman Green of Webster; a brother, Joseph and his wife Patricia Ryzewski of South Carolina; two grandsons, Adam Wornham and Alexander Wornham, both of Webster; his companion, Marcia Wagner of Dudley; five cats, Pepe, Dick Tracy, Lassie, Schmo and Susie; three turtles, Yuri, Valentina and Rick.

Tom was born in Worcester, son of the late Stanley and Jessie (Miller) Ryzewski and lived in Webster most of his life.  He taught science, biology and anatomy at Bartlett High School in Webster, retiring in 2004.  He was a wild life biologist for the French River Connection and was on the Board of Directors.  He was one of the original organizers of the Webster Civil Defense and Rescue Squad, serving as Chief for many years.  Additionally, he was a member of the Webster Police Reserves and was one of the first E.M.T's in the country.  He was previously the chairman of the Inland and Wetlands Commission.  He was a member of the Thoreau Society and was a published author on turtle research and the study of turtles.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2013, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in the Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home, 48 School Street, Webster, with a Celebration of Life service at 4 pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the French River Connection, P.O. Box 45, Webster, MA 01570.  A guest book is available at www.shaw-majercik.com .