Thomas A. Svatek

Thomas Andreas Svatek, of Carlisle, known affectionately as Tom, Dad, and Opa, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 22, 2026, with his beloved wife, Martha, by his side.

Born on May 19, 1936, in Pressburg (now Bratislava), Tom grew up in Vienna, Austria. Blessed with a gifted and curious mind, he studied engineering in Vienna. Then he emigrated from post-war Europe to the United States to further his education. It was while pursuing a degree at Antioch College that he met Martha, who would become his wife and lifelong partner. They married in 1964 and shared 62 years of marriage, building a life together filled with family, outdoor activities, and adventure.

Tom was exceptionally bright, endlessly inventive, hard working, and always eager to understand how things worked—and how they could work better. With further education from the MIT Sloan School of Management, he spent 19 years of his professional career at Polaroid Corporation, where he was part of the teams that developed technology for expandable self-developing cameras, and early video cameras and projectors. His creativity, experiences, and talent eventually led him to strike out on his own, founding TAS Engineering. There, among other projects, he focused on inventing, designing, and prototyping biomedical applications. Collaborating with Boston Scientific Corporation he pioneered techniques in manufacturing angioplasty balloon catheters, and helped develop several related patents. His work reflected a remarkable ability to turn ideas into practical innovations that had far reaching and long lasting impact.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom found great pleasure in tinkering with timepieces and electronics, sailing, enjoying music, inventing, and traveling. Whether exploring new places or developing a novel idea, he approached life with the ingenuity, humor, and desire to learn that defined him. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his family will remember not only his intelligence and accomplishments, but also the unique perspective, resourcefulness, and can-do spirit he brought to everyday life.

Tom is survived by his wife, Martha; their three children and their families; four grandchildren; and two nieces and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, brother, and sister-in-law.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who helped make Tom's final years more comfortable for both Tom and Martha. Their kindness, compassion, and support mean a great deal to the family.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Tom's memory are invited to make a donation to a charity or organization of their choice.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of ingenuity, curiosity, and love – a life shaped by the pursuit of ideas, the joy of discovery, and the enduring bonds of family and friends. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.