Todd M Kerwin

 Todd Michael Patrick Kerwin, 53, of West Roxbury, talented artist and loving son to Rosemarie (Ferro) Kerwin and Paul Kerwin, died November 5, of cardiac arrest. Last April, Todd (TMPK as he was affectionately known to family and fans of his artwork) suffered a hemorrhagic stroke, leaving his left side paralyzed. Born into a world that is often ignorantly unaccepting of those who present as different, much of Todd’s life was affected by Asperger's. Overcoming profound struggles in finding his way socially, emotionally, and professionally, his uniqueness shone brightly to all fortunate enough to know him well. Like many who live on the spectrum, he was exceptionally gifted. He was an artist (his artwork was juried and prize-winning), an athlete (a Black Belt in Karate, a short-mid distance runner), and a truly compassionate, empathic gentleman to his core. As the longtime youngest in a large family, he was equipped with an outsized sense of humor, aided by an observant, and perceptively quick wit with a seemingly endless memory bank loaded with “the goods” on all family members. Thus, in this all too serious world, he artfully seized any opportunity to offer the chance to laugh at oneself. Accordingly, TMPK’s comedic warmth was with him to the end, making certain that all who tended him during his recovery and final days laughed and found joy, no matter the task at-hand. 

Todd fulfilled his earthly tenure, leaving behind a rich legacy of accommodating life’s challenges and labors in earnest. He was a constant touchstone and mentor who quietly shepherded all to live and act empathetically in daily endeavors. True to form, his love of life and light-filled spirit will carry on in others through his many organ donations. As such, he bequeaths many healthful, well-tended organs. Thus in death, his service to others offers hope, extends and enriches the lives of those in need. 

Born February 5, 1969, Todd grew up and lived in Brookline with the Ferro Family until he moved to Brighton and then to West Roxbury. In his youth Todd was a devoted altar boy at St. Aidan’s Church. He attended Edward Devotion Grammar School in Brookline, St. Sebastian’s School in Brighton and Needham, and graduated high school from Chapel Hill / Chauncy Hall in Waltham.

He then went on to American International College in Springfield, MA, where in 1996 he earned a Bachelor’s in arts, then in 1998, a Masters of Education with minors in Spanish and Art.

In 1999, he attended Mass College of Art and Design in Boston where he first exhibited some of his works of fine, abstract and mixed media art. He was a member in good standing of the West Roxbury Art Association and exhibited his works at the German Center for Extended Care also in West Roxbury. His artwork was often exhibited at the West Roxbury Library as well. 

Todd leaves behind bereaved loved ones: grandparents Marion and the late Charles Ferro; Lenora Ferro and Tom Brignand; Marion Ferro and William Wetterhahn and family; Charles and Veronica Ferro and family; John and Chasidy Ferro; Wendy and Joseph Pecci and family; the late William and Linda Kerwin and family; Charlie and the late Carol Kerwin; Michael and the late Dolores Petterman and family; June and David Mathews and family; and Joyce and Glenn Alt and family. 

Funeral from the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury on Monday November 14, at 9:00 am. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in St. Theresa of Avila Church at 10:00 am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours in the funeral home on Sunday November 13, from 3:00 to 7:00 pm. Interment at 12 noon in Wildwood Cemetery Winchester, MA on Monday.

Most worthy recipient of love that never ends, but goes on to enlighten and enrich, may our cherished TMPK rest in sweet peace as he remains ever snug in the hearts of those whose lives he enriched!

A poem for Todd

He leaves 

      Reminders of the wealth available

      In being human,

      Lesser gods within the struggle to make heaven

      Of this earth –

      Ours to possess and pass on.

      What dearer 

         Than 

      Each other 

       in this feast of Life?

        -(c)LF

        8 November 2022

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Todd’s name to

The Asperger's Association of New England

51 Water Street, Suite 206 | Watertown, MA 02472

https://www.aane.org