Thomas Shoaff

This obituary is being republished to provide additional information. THOMAS RICHARD SHOAFF, 96, of Fort Wayne, passed away Friday morning, May 13, 2005. In 1909, he was born to Fred and Alice Shoaff in a horse-drawn carriage, travelling to the hospital, in a Fort Wayne that was yet to see cars. Most of his life was spent in Fort Wayne, where he attended Central High School and graduated as Salutarian of his class. His post-secondary years took him to Williams College and Princetm Univ., where he completed his graduate work in architecture in 1934. As he matured, so did his love for Fort Wayne, which became a lifetme commitment to the quality of its growth. In 1937, he began his service to the community by opening his architectural office. However, with the onset of WWII, he left Fort Wayne to serve in the navy in Washington, D.C. While there, he married Phyllis Marian Kleiner, in 1942 in the National Cathedral. At the end of the war, they returned to Fort Wayne, where he continued his architectural career. Dick had a variety of interests and accomplishments during his life. He loved the game of tennis. After winning the city tournament twice, he was inducted into the Fort Wayne Tennis Hall of Fame. He was a president and founder of the Fort Wayne Ballet, and he served on the boards of the Fort Wayne Art School, the Fort Wayne Art Museum, and the Civic Theatre. Like his father, Frederick, he was an avid supporter of the Fort Wayne Park System. He loved art in all its forms, whether it was ballet in the theater, artwork that adorned his home, or the houses and buildings he designed for Fort Wayne. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; five children: Judith Reading, Susan Long, Richard Shoaff, and Wally Shoaff; six grandchildren, and three great-grandchiidren. He was a beloved father, husband, and best friend to all who knew him. Clearly, to all who did know Dick Shoaff, he will be dearly missed. A memorial service will be held at 4PM, Tuesday, in the chapel of the First Presbyterian Church. If desired, contributions can be made to Friends of the Park, the Fort Wayne Ballet, or Park Center. Arrangments by Kalehn, Fahl & Melton, Wayne Street Chapel.