Tom Alperin

Tom Alperin (1959 – 2024)

Thomas Mark Alperin, lovingly known as Tom, passed away peacefully on Thursday November 14th. He was 65. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who deeply valued the people in his life. His love and care extended from his immediate family to his wider circle of friends, colleagues, and the community.

Tom grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he learned the values of kindness, integrity, and hard work from his parents Myer and Joan Alperin. He later moved to the Boston area to attend Tufts University, where he met Marsha, his future wife and lifelong partner. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared memories, including raising their three sons—Michael, Jared, and Scott. Tom’s love for Marsha was evident in everything he did, and he took immense pride in the family they built together.

Family was the heartbeat of Tom’s life. He was a wonderful father, always finding time to coach youth sports and enjoy activities with his sons. He was proud to consistently hold the family tennis championship. Tom adored his grandchildren, Sophie and Evan, and embraced every opportunity to be present in their lives.

Tom was the Founder and former President of National Development. The company under Tom and his partners’ leadership developed numerous and significant commercial real estate projects throughout New England. Tom would attribute National Development’s success to a lot of luck, but it was also the result of hard work and the team of employees who Tom cared about deeply.

Tom was a pillar in his community, not just through his career but through his extensive volunteer work and civic engagement – he cared deeply about Greater Boston. His contributions went beyond his work at National Development. Starting with his time at Tufts University, where he served as President of the Student Senate, Tom developed a passion for volunteer leadership. He served on multiple local non-profit boards. His work with these organizations was an extension of his belief in giving back and making a positive impact.

Tom’s warmth and sincerity touched everyone he met. He had a unique ability to connect with people and make them feel valued. Whether enjoying walks on Truro beaches or playing a competitive game of Scrabble, Tom cherished his time with loved ones. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the family he nurtured, the buildings he helped develop, and the community he supported.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Marsha (Cowan) Alperin; his sons, Michael Alperin and wife Lindsay, Jared Alperin and wife Robin Colby, and Scott Alperin and wife Jessica; and his cherished grandchildren, Sophie and Evan Alperin. The funeral service will be held at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, Massachusetts, on Monday November 18th at 2:30pm. Shiva will be held at The Belvedere, Tuesday, November 19, and Wednesday, November 20 from 3-6 pm. Remembrances may be made to the Boston Foundation Food, Fuel, and Shelter Fund: https://www.tbf.org/donors/forms/food-fuel-and-shelter-fund.