Tom McNish

A good man gone too soon. God bless Tom, Yona, and their family. Tom Walsh '64

I have thought of the years I have known Tom as a roommate and POW in Hanoi and since. He has left a lasting impression on me and I feel a definite loss. The world is a lesser place. He was one of the most intelligent people I knew and proved his worth by becoming a medical doctor and devoting his time to the Veterans and society. Yes, I will miss you my friend and wish you a smooth flight west.

I worked with Tom for 30 years at Biodynamic Research Corporation (BRC) for where we were biomechanical consultants. We were also partners and on the board of directors. Tom was the board chairman for six years and he did a remarkable job keeping the board members focused and on point. As a consultant Tom's intelligent approach to cases and calm demeanor made him a sought after consultant by BRC's clients. What most impressed be about Tom was that he never stopped growing as a person and that...

Fond memories of Tom as kids at our Kinsey grandparents home in Madison, and reunions and visits with him and Yona and their family, and great admiration for his life of service to our country as fighter pilot and POW, and to humanity as a physician and medical research specialist! I am honored to have been his cousin and have my family benefit from his company. Keeping Yona and the family in prayer for God´s comfort for their loss. Cousin Steve Sleboda

Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the entire McNish family on the sad loss of Tom. He was an American patriot and hero in the true meaning of the words - an example of the kind of man who made this country great. Now, following his last flight, may he rest in peace forever in heaven. "Throw a nickel on the grass ..." GBU, Tom

Tom was a great friend and a wonderful person. We communicated secretly in the Hanoi Hilton POW camp with the hand code that he and his roommate invented. Tom was a brilliant and courageous warrior and we will all miss him.

Tom and I were colleagues at BRC for many years. I first met Tom while he was the long-time president of our small international group of pilot-physicians. His calm strength, towering presence and quiet leadership brought us together and created collaborations that led to important contributions to science and aerospace medicine. He always spoke of Yona and his family with love and reverence, and to them we extend our deepest condolences.

Yona and McNish family, I am so sorry for your loss. What a treasure of a man Tom was.

We have lost one of the best! Shortly after Tom started working at BRC, we began to work together, and we teamed together on many cases over the years. While I like to think we learned from each other, he taught me much about the indomitable human spirit, especially when guided by honesty, integrity and love of others. He will be missed. Love and condolences to his family and friends. Keith.