Thomas L. Yohe

Thomas L. Yohe

Tom conquered many mountains in his 57 years of life, both literally and figuratively. He was just too tired to scale this last one. Tom passed away in his sleep early Easter morning beside Jeanne Marie, his wife of 29 years. Diagnosed in 2000 with throat cancer, Tom endured debilitating treatment and endless treatment-related health problems, only to rise above each set-back and adapt bravely and creatively. Stories of his resilience to survive have, and will continue to, inspire his friends and family.

Besides his wife, Tom is survived by his three children, Stefan (Boston, MA), Luke, and Hana (Wilmington, DE), and three sisters, Marie Novak (Edinboro, PA), Jennie Ord (Elkton, MD), and Cathy Hanton (Jarvisburg, NC). Tom was predeceased by his mother, Helen Yohe. A very large extended family and multitude of friends too numerous to mention are grieving Tom's loss as well. We, his family, hold you in our hearts and thank you for your years of support and continued friendship. We are also forever indebted to the numerous medical professionals that treated Tom's ailments over the last 12 years, allowing him to spend many more fruitful years with his family and friends.

Tom was born in Beaver Falls, PA. He attended Penn State University where he earned a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. It was in State College, PA that Tom met Jeanne Marie on a blind date set up by a mutual friend. Tom took his first professional job in Philadelphia, became reacquainted with Jeanne Marie and married. In 1986, Tom founded Delaware Valley Rehabilitation Services in Wilmington, DE. Tom enjoyed 15 years of successful business until his failing health caused him to close his company.

Tom's first love was his wife and children. He had an unquenchable thirst for the outdoors and was in the woods whenever he was able. He had a love for playing, listening to, and creating music, and especially loved playing guitar with friends. His keen intellect and sense of humor was known and loved to Tom's friends and family. He took nothing at face value, and enjoyed discussing politics, religion, and life's unknowns. Tom reinvented himself many times during his 12 year fight, and became an avid photographer and web designer. Tom will be missed by the organizations to which he devoted countless hours of volunteer work and guidance, especially Boy Scout Troop 67, the support group for head and neck cancer at the Hosp. of the Univ. of Penn and the Community for Integrative Learning.

We will publicly celebrate Tom's life on Saturday, April 14th, at 4:00 PM at St. David's Episcopal Church at 2320 Grubb Rd., North Wilmington. The family will begin receiving family and friends at 3:00 PM. If you care to make a contribution in Tom's name you may contribute to SPOHNC (Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer, www.spohnc.org) or to the organization of your choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to www.mccreryandharra.com