The last family owned funeral home in Thurston County.

Tom Hennessy passed away October 28, 2021, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. He was 76. 

Born October 1, 1945, Tom grew up in Tacoma and graduated from Mt. Tahoma High School.  Tom began his career with the Washington State DOT in 1966. His career was put on hold in April of 1969, when the local draft board ordered him to report for induction into the U.S. Army.  Following basic and advanced infantry training at Fort Lewis, Tom, a 05B20 Radio Operator, served back-to-back tours in Vietnam in 1969 and 1970 to fulfill his obligation and be discharged immediately upon his return home ahead of Thanksgiving 1970.   On the rare occasion he talked about Vietnam, Tom would tell his family he served “one year, two months and eight days."

Weeks after returning, Tom and Linda were married on December 11. He resumed his career at WSDOT and retired after 30 years.  He spent his retirement attending Husky football games and drag races, and keeping the lake place in good repair.  Tom spent most of his life at Lake St. Clair, visiting during childhood summers and eventually building his home there.  Tom’s kids managed to lure him away on rare occasions, a Navy ship “tiger” cruise and the 2001 Rose Bowl, but it took some effort.  He preferred to stay near the lake.

He enjoyed softball, bowling, listening to music on vinyl and reel-to-reel, turning down the thermostat, watching The Price is Right every weekday at 10:00 AM, building LEGO models, and assembling jigsaw puzzles. He loved playing cards and claimed a 32 consecutive game win streak at solitaire; his family was skeptical but let it slide. Contract Rummy was a favorite, and he won more than his fair share of hands.  Even in his last few months he managed to win a hand or two, with a little help from Linda of course.

Tom is survived by Linda, his wife of 50 years; sons Jaimie, Shawn (Sydney) and Deome; and grandchildren Bryant, Sarah, Noelle and Gracie.  Tom was interred with his parents at Calvary Cemetery in Tacoma. A family service was held. He is missed.