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For one foursome at the 27th Annual AgeSpan Golf Classic, the tournament means more than a chance to participate in a worthy cause. It’s also a chance to honor a lost friend.
Since 2015, a group of North Reading High School graduates has gathered from across the country as a tribute to their dear friend, Thomas Faggella, who died that same year. On September 12, that group consisted of Adam Kacamburas, Ken Dellovo, Craig Hanson, and Doug Howell, all members of the Class of 2000.
“Tom is still in our memories,” Kacamburas said. “(The tournament) is a good opportunity to have that remembrance.”
The tournament held September 12 at Haverhill Golf & Country Club benefits AgeSpan’s DiStefano Family Care Fund, which helps adults aged 60 with urgent or emergency resources like needed extra food, fuel, to pay for an unexpected medication, respite care, home repairs, or an overdue utility bill.
Tom’s parents, Sally and Dan Faggella, sponsor a foursome each year and volunteer to staff the Snack at the Turn while cheering on the golfers.
They remain close to Tom’s friends. The tournament is a chance for them to find out how everyone is doing. They’re grateful to the group for making that connection possible and keeping the memory of their son alive.
“The fact they started this on their own and they continue to do it means a lot to us,” Dan said. “They don’t forget. That’s what’s great.”
It was a close-knit group in high school. They were in clubs and on athletic teams together. Even when some friends weren’t playing, they were cheering the others on at the game.
The tournament is something the Faggellas get excited about every year. When asked if it’s something they look forward to, they both answered with a resounding “Yes!”
That’s because the tournament gives them a chance to do two things they love. They get to volunteer and visit with their extended family, which reminds them of just how special their son was.
“We don’t see them often,” Sally said. “But these kids are always in our hearts.”

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