Guestbook

Gökhan Benli wrote on September 2, 2025 at 11:40 pm

Dear Thomas, It is deeply saddening to write these words... I remember meeting you and little Joseph in the playground of Odtükent during the pandemic as if it were yesterday. While my daughter Leyla and Joseph—“Jobish,” as Leyla fondly called him back then—played together, we enjoyed long, lively conversations. What had once been a dull “playground duty” turned into meaningful, memorable moments of friendship. Later, when Leyla and Joseph became kindergarten mates, those moments continued. I always looked forward to our chats. Your intellect, knowledge, and wonderfully sharp sense of humor never ceased to amaze me. I can’t recall a single time I left our conversations without laughter and warmth. It was a shock to see you leave so suddenly, so early. I still struggle to accept it. I hope you have found peace, wherever you are. Farewell, my friend—you will be missed dearly.

G.Ç. wrote on August 29, 2025 at 11:00 pm

Dear Mr.B, I am shocked and devastated that you passed away. It feels unreal, don't want to believe that. My university life started with you and the amazing INT-26 class. We, as a class, were special, and the main reason for that is that you were our teacher. That semester was a time period I always remember with warm feelings, memories full of joy and laughter. Every class we learnt something from you, and when I look back at those days, I see that I realized a different part of life, and I am very thankful for that. You educated us not only for academic life but also how to adapt to different point of views. I would look forward to our classes because those classes were very precious to me, because I was feeling lost at that time in my life, and you showed me things in a different light. I remember once we talked about career, and you told me that it is okay to feel uncertain about the path I chose, so I shouldn't be too worried because it'll be okay. We talked about many things once, about life, about our wellbeing, about our loved ones. At that time I saw that I had a good friend, and a role model. I appreaciated your way of thinking about life, your kindness, thoughtfulness, your sense of humor, and everything. I now see that everything you did was for us to learn something from, and I know that we picked those lessons. I couldn't have been more thankful for that our paths crossed. I feel so lucky and privileged to have been in INT-26 class in 2019 fall with everyone. I am very grateful that I got to know you, creating memories to remember with a smile in our faces, with nostalgia. Mr.B, I am so sad that we couldn't talk recently, but at least I was able to express my gratitude. I want to say thank you once more, for everything you've done for us, and taught us. If I were to born again and had to choose, I would choose to be your student again with INT-26. My condolences go out to your loved ones. Sir, I hope you are good and well right now. We all will miss you, and I will always remember what you taught us. Thank you.

Tugba D. wrote on August 2, 2025 at 5:20 pm

Dear Thomas, I still cannot believe that you're gone. Thinking that all the walks and conversations we shared are now just memories is unimaginably heartbreaking for me. Maybe that's why I still don’t want to accept that you're no longer in this world. But I believe you can still see us—the people whose lives you touched. I told you this before, but I want anyone reading this page to know: you were the best lecturer I’ve ever had. More than that, you were a great friend to me. I also know how much your students love and admire you. You always tried to do your best, and you did. I miss our conversations so much. Knowing that we’ll never get to have another one brings me sadness, but I’m deeply grateful that I had the chance to know you. We talked about shows, movies, music—and I always admired your intelligence. The way you spoke about those things was both thoughtful and full of humor. Almost every day, I come across a film, a song, or a scene and immediately think of you—remembering the times we discussed them. My dear friend, why did you have to leave so early? I know I will never meet another soul quite like yours, and so I’m only thankful that our paths crossed. You always said that when something bad or unexpected happens, just go with the flow, and everything will be okay; but, I feel it's hard in a world without you in it. Still, I’m grateful—for the memories you left behind, for the beautiful family you were part of, and for the lasting impact you had on so many of us. Rest well, Thomas. I’ll carry your kindness with me, always.

Nihat wrote on July 19, 2025 at 1:27 pm

He was a wonderful neighbor with a kind and gentlemanly personality. May he rest in peace. I wish patience and fortitude to his family and loved ones.

Ileana Gatica wrote on July 18, 2025 at 8:11 pm

It is incredible how there are some persons who pass by our lives, and their presence leave a lasting and forever impact. Thomas, man I will miss you dearly, but the memories we were able to share will remain always. I met Thomas and Isik back maybe 7-8 years ago when they were in Boston, I am so glad they landed in Arlington, where I was living at the time. I still remember the first day that I met Thomas, at first, I thought mmm not sure about this dude;;seems a bit serious and kind of shy;, but then after the days passed, I started to realize that "this dude" was kind of a Great man, funny, sarcastic, honest, Real. Thomas right away told me about Isik and I was so eager to meet this wonderful woman I've heard so much about, we spent many afternoons having great conversations, we had coffee together and spent countless hours at the park with our kids (by then it was only Altan, but after they left Boston little Joseph came and I was so happy!), we spent such great times building a beautiful friendship. I remember, as if it was yesterday, seeing Thomas and Isik walking down a big hill and through the bike path to go to the Robbins library, a favorite place of both, and I remember Thomas going to the Great Meadows to see the different birds and walk in nature. I am forever grateful that I met Thomas, that we spent such quality time together with our families, he was a man that was down to earth, real, honest and who had a humble spirit, he was a family man always centered on his loved ones. I remember too how funny he was, up to this day I sometimes am walking and a memory comes to me that makes me laugh, for example of how he used to compete about the principal at the boys school at the time, he would tell me; I know Mark likes me better, well I am a man and I am white and of course that sarcasm was just great, or the times when school was collecting money for gifts for teachers, Thomas would complain about how many gifts teachers receive in a given month! Anyways, I cherish all the moments together, all the chats and deep conversations, all the coffees and the tequila ;), I know those times are ones that won't come back, but I also know that they will remain forever as will be his presence with all of us. To my dearest Isik, you are a wonderful person, I love you and I love your family, I am here for you and the boys and when we see each other again we will continue to remember Thomas and his beautiful presence in this world. Lastly and as I told you my dearest Isik, Thomas reminded me of what is the essence of living and of life, within a world that kind of sucks, knowing that people like Thomas were a part of so many lives and that his presence will live forever, that alone makes this world a lot better and it makes us keep on going! Until I see you again my friend!

Tuba Unlu wrote on July 17, 2025 at 12:04 am

Honestly, I've kept putting off writing here. It felt like saying goodbye would be like closing a chapter with Thomas. I can't believe that he is gone. We will always remember him as we last saw him, attending to young Joseph in the lojman gardens as he used to do every day. Thomas was an amazing father to both Altan and Joseph; great husband to Isik; and extraordinary support to his students. Few professors spend that much time and energy for their students and classes. I wish and hope he is in a much better place now.

Bestami Bilgic wrote on July 14, 2025 at 7:52 pm

Lost a very good friend in Thomas. Still mourning the loss, and I just don,t know when and if ll ever be able to stop. Will miss seeing you around, man...

AKA wrote on July 10, 2025 at 12:33 pm

Although we never had the chance to meet in person, I have often heard that you left a lasting impression and beautiful memories in the lives of so many, and I have come to learn that you were a truly kind and cherished soul. I spoke about you with your wife, Professor Işık, and your aunt, and I wanted to convey just how deeply you were loved and valued by them, and how much they will miss you. I sincerely hope that in heaven, you will be reunited with your beloved wife, children, and family. My heartfelt condolences and love go out to all your loved ones.

İrem Aktaşlı Gürkan wrote on July 8, 2025 at 12:40 pm

Dear Thomas, When I first heard the news of your sudden passing, I simply couldn’t believe it. I thought there must have been a mistake in the message. I keep remembering our after-work conversations while Deniz and Joseph were playing, the birthdays we celebrated together, and how you always greeted us with your warm and genuine smile—at Yuva, around lojman, everywhere. You were one of the most devoted fathers I’ve ever met, and one of the kindest, most cheerful friends to talk to. You left far too soon. My heart goes out to Işık, and to Altan and Joseph. I wish them strength and patience during this difficult time.

Andrew Emmert wrote on July 6, 2025 at 9:25 pm

Although I'm not usually good at this sort of thing, I just wanted to take the time and express the sense of heartfelt loss that I am feeling at this moment. Thomas was such a kind, considerate, and all-around amazing individual. His sincerity and gregariousness were truly inspiring and allowed him to make anyone he met feel like they had a friend for life. I remember first meeting him at a dinner for Indiana University graduates back in the fall of 2017, and despite the brevity of the conversation we had that evening, he made me feel like I had known him for years. The general hustle and bustle of everyday life kept us from seeing other much until we reconnected during the pandemic, often conversing after bumping into each other while taking neighborhood walks during the pandemic. Even then, after only sporadically seeing other over the course of a few years, it was like we hadn't missed a beat and had been in touch the entire the time. When we last saw one another, in late 2023, it was the same feeling; we walked around campus and shared memories about our time in Turkey and what it was like living there as two American guys; he told me about his travels in Central Asia; again, it was the same: it was like we, despite all the time apart, had been neighbors everyday of the previous three years. And that was the beauty of Thomas; his innate friendliness, kindness, and disarming nature truly made you feel like you had a friend for life. He looked for, and I believe, assumed the best in people, and brought that out of them each and every time in return. If he was that great of a friend, I can only imagine what great, kind, and loving of a man he must have been as a father and a husband. It was always so apparent to everyone who knew him how much he loved his family. Thomas was truly a great man, and he will forever be missed by us all.

Nergis wrote on July 6, 2025 at 7:23 am

Thomas, You have been a dear friend ever since we started our in-service training back in 2009. It was only a couple of weeks ago that you shared what you had been going through with your health, and although the news saddened me deeply, I am grateful I got to see you one more time. The world needs good people like you, and I will always remember you with your beautiful soul. Rest in peace and in light,

Hale wrote on July 6, 2025 at 7:22 am

Sevgili Thomas, Çok erken veda ettin. Seni hep düşünceli bir iş arkadaşı, özenli bir hoca ve en önemlisi kalbi çok güzel bir insan olarak hatırlayacağım. Hoşçakal…

Zeynep Nur wrote on July 6, 2025 at 7:22 am

Dearest Thomas, I still have difficulty accepting that you have left us. You have always been energetic, friendly and thoughtful ( more than most of us). It was your jokes and energy that kept us going most of the time in the staff-rooms. Each time I shared class or carried out an exam together, I considered myself lucky. Goodbye my speaking exam partner and rest in peace. We will always remember you with your jokes and the smile on your face! Zeynep Nur

Elit wrote on July 6, 2025 at 7:20 am

Thomas, tanıdığım en "decent" insanlardan biriydi.. Karakteriyle, ahlakıyla, işine ve hayatına gösterdiği özenle örnek bir hoca ve arkadaştı.. Derslerine her gün özenle hazırlanır, kitaptaki tek bir task üzerine bile dakikalarca fikir alır, hazırlık yapar, derslerden sonra "şöyle şöyle yaptım bu bölümü, iyi yapmış mıyım?" diye sorardı 🙂 Öğrencilerinin ya da arkadaşlarının söylediği tek bir cümleyi saatlerce bazen günlerce kafasına takacak kadar hassas, düşünceli bir insandı. Ölüm kelimesiyle asla yan yana getirilebilecek bir isim değildi. Sağlığına, yediğine içtiğine, sporuna dikkat ederdi. Hayatın ne kadar absürt olduğunu bir kere daha hatırladık..İnanmak çok zor, yattığın yer incitmesin Thomas. Öncelikle Işık'ın ve çocuklarının olmak üzere tüm sevenlerinin başı sağolsun. Elit

Anıl wrote on July 6, 2025 at 7:20 am

Thomas Bonnenfant, of all people... His last words to me two weeks ago on May 26: "Enjoy your time there and every little moment" And I just said "Will do. Talk soon." And he waved with an emoji... I met Thomas in 2010, and we immediately started joking around. We had so many inside jokes -so juvenile I can't even share them here. We just kept picking on each other. But mostly, he was such a nice, thoughtful guy. He'd joke around and then text me later to make sure I wasn't offended by it. And no, not once did he offend me 🙂 He always told me to take walks and eat healthy, which is what he himself did consistently. And that's why it just doesn't make any sense that he's gone, Thomas Bonnenfant, of all people... And to you, Thomas: I'll see you in another life, brother. You'll come to my apartment again and we'll watch another Premier League game on a sunny Sunday afternoon and have a few "cold ones" as you'd put it. Sending all my love, strength, and patience to beloved Işık and the kids.

İlbey Ç. wrote on July 5, 2025 at 4:53 pm

Some people always reflect that beautiful spirit from childhood and youth despite their age. They make others feel that empathy and a good soul are never wrong. Thomas reflected this good youthful energy by socializing with us. Maybe this is a reflection of our nature as human beings. Maybe it is a longing for that good human spirit by staying young with us. Only one thing is clear here: he is remembered as a good person.

Lisa wrote on July 5, 2025 at 2:51 pm

Thomas was my oldest cousin (my only older cousin) of the 10 of us cousins on the Moore Family line. Thomas was always a pleasure to be with: witty, thoughtful, easy-going. He had a good smile &; laugh. He could relate to all types of people and had the benefit of speaking both English &; French- what an asset (except as a kid when he was speaking to his siblings in French, and I couldn’t understand, but that was pretty funny!) As an adult, Thomas served others around the world &; in his community. Spending time with his dear family while they were visiting in NC, I admired Thomas’ deep appreciation &; respect for his wife Isik. He held her in high esteem, gladly served her and genuinely loved her. What a wonderful husband! Thomas was a great father too, hands on and interactive with both boys. His sons are highly intelligent and quite curious - such good traits in life. I thoroughly enjoyed watching his older son, Altan, and my younger son, Hugh, hang out together. Those two are the same age, same grade, different in so many ways but fast buddies &; friends. From fishing to biking to ice cream cones &; the beach, the time those boys spent together bonding was priceless! I am thankful for the investment Thomas made in his beautiful family, &; for the special impact he made on all who ever knew him. Such a huge loss — I am praying for Isik, Altan, Joseph as well as Anne &; Patrick, Marc &; his family, Julie and her family during this very difficult and challenging time.

Yesim K. O. wrote on July 4, 2025 at 11:52 pm

We first met Thomas at the grad school as his friendship with Işık gave way to a deeper connection with the Turkish community. When the opportunity came to move to Turkiye, Thomas didn’t hesitate and followed his heart. We were so happy for Işık and Thomas. There was something steady about Thomas, a gentleness of spirit. We will never forget you.

Loubna wrote on July 4, 2025 at 4:47 pm

I still cannot believe Thomas is gone. I remember those early days in Bloomington, Indiana, when he and Işik first met. He was always sweet, reserved, and gentle. The two of you were so happy together. I have fond memories of hanging out as a group; we have a lovely photo of the four of us (with Duygu) in New York that I have kept coming back to since I heard the news. It was so heartwarming to spend some time at your house in Ankara, when Altan was still young. I still remember the beautiful dinner Thomas made for us all. I was looking forward to another opportunity to bring our two families together. It is hard to fathom Thomas will no longer be there. My heart goes out to Işik, Altan, and Joseph.

Sod wrote on July 3, 2025 at 11:42 pm

Dear Thomas, It’s so hard to say goodbye to a friend like you. You and Isik were always there for me during my hardest times, and I’ll always be grateful for the kindness and support you both gave me. I’ll never forget all the good times we had, hanging out at the gazebo, going to Holiday World and riding roller coasters, our home poker games with the neighbors, and all those fun visits to New York City and later Pittsburgh when your son was just four or five. We always joked around and made fun of each other, and I loved every second of it. Watching the World Cup finals together when France was playing is something I’ll always remember and smile about. Thank you for being such a true, caring, and fun friend. To Isik and your family, I’m so sorry for your loss. Thomas’s warmth and spirit will always live on in all of us. Rest easy, my friend. You will always be missed and never forgotten.

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