Tom Davin Obituary
A 1979 graduate of Duke University, Tom went on to serve six years as a Marine infantry and reconnaissance officer. He credited that time with giving him not only discipline but what he called "high quality reps of leading young Marines in challenging environments." He often reflected that the lessons from his military service shaped everything that followed.
After completing his service, Tom earned his MBA from Harvard Business School in 1987 and embarked on a distinguished career that spanned Wall Street, restaurants, and consumer brands. He began in mergers and acquisitions before moving into senior leadership roles. Tom served as Chief Operating Officer of Taco Bell, CEO of Panda Restaurant Group, CEO of 5.11 Tactical, and most recently as Co-CEO of Black Rifle Coffee Company. In every role, he was admired not only for building successful businesses but also for creating a culture of teamwork and camaraderie-ensuring that everyone knew they were a valued member of the team.
Colleagues and friends knew Tom as a leader who combined toughness and discipline with authenticity and warmth. He was as focused on developing people as he was on delivering results, and he inspired loyalty by modeling integrity in everything he did.
While proud of his professional accomplishments, Tom's greatest joy was his family. His wife, Molly, and their three daughters were the center of his life. He often said no achievement compared to the pride he felt in being a husband and father.
In facing ALS and Parkinson's, Tom demonstrated the same courage and resilience that defined his career and his service as a Marine. His strength, humor, and love left a lasting example for all of us who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom's memory to Augie's Quest to Cure ALS : https://give.augiesquest.org/TomDavin
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John Appleby
January 2, 2026
I just found out that Tom died. My heart aches. I met Tom playing tennis at the Palisades Tennis Club in Newport Beach. He and I would play tennis at Big Canyon at 6 a.m., running each other into the ground to start our day. Small world, Molly started out selling real estate with my aunt in Daien, CT, long before we met Molly and Tom. Tom Davin was the best man I have ever met. The world was a much better place with Tom in it. God bless you, Tom. You helped show me the best way to live. Thank you. Sally and John Appleby, La Jolla, California
Guy Burgstahler
December 8, 2025
Tom gave me an opportunity that I will be forever thankful for.
Rest in peace brother.
Guy Burgstahler
Vicky Becker Hoskins
December 2, 2025
I remember chasing Tom across the Quad, trying to take his Derby on EX Derby Day. I was laughing too much to ever catch him . He was our Captain America. Much love to his family.
Tom Welter
October 6, 2025
Tom was nothing less than a Hero ! A hero as a friend, as a mentor, as a leader and husband and father. He was intellectually brilliant and never made any of us feel the lesser for it. He was charming in his friendships. He had that deeper voice than his personal size that commanded attention. He was ripped and always fit and hungry for more. He was a role model for all men personally and professionally. I loved the man !
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Tom Welter
October 6, 2025
Eric Henrickson
September 26, 2025
ALL HONOR TO HIS NAME! Tom was an exceptional friend and brother. I first met him at a Sigma Chi lunch in OC years ago. He was a man of character who loved his family. I never got to meet his wife or daughters but he was always sending me pictures of them lol. He loved them so much and was so proud of them. He also loved being a Marine and told me one of the few reasons he left GS to work for Taco Bell was because he got the opportunity of motivating young adults, like he did in USMC. He used his experience as a Marine to improve so many businesses and organizations. I honestly do not believe he understood how much of an impact he had on the world. He had a massive impact on me. However, I do believe deep down he would have loved going to Ground Branch instead of Harvard and I know for a fact if it wasn't for his mom forcing him to go to Harvard, he would have been surfing while going to UCLA lol. His mom was fantastic influence on him... but the big decisions in his adult life, were for his wife. He never did anything without thinking of how it would impact her. Tom, I'm sorry I missed coffee, brother. You will be missed. The world is a better place for having you in it and you left it far better than when you arrived. Rest well knowing you can proudly say, "Looking back over your past life: 'I have fought the good fight; I have finished my work; The White Cross of Sigma Chi has gained new luster by my life."
Proud to be...
IH
E
Kerin Sparks
September 18, 2025
TD mate, you always took the time, asked about all things happening in business & life whilst flashing the Davin grin.
Your leadership & encouragement was second to none.
I appreciated those times & also the odd workout pushing out the km's back in the day breaking a sweat.
To Molly & the girls we offer our love, prayers and strength.
Sparky
Luke Williams
September 17, 2025
I was introduced to Tom about a year ago. We quickly connected over our shared military service and as Reconnaissance Officers. Tom had served at 1st Recon Bn and I was currently serving at the unit. I had the honor to coordinate a visit for Tom and some of his fellow Recon Alumni back to the unit. Tom had the opportunity to observe training, talk with the Recondos, and walk the storied halls of 1st Recon Bn. It was incredible to see how Tom never lost touch with the values of the Marine Corps and Reconnaissance Community, and how he remained a warrior through and through.
Tom was a huge ally as I recently worked through my transition off of Active Duty into the reserves. His mentorship and advocacy was further proof he never stopped serving.
Tom lived a life of service, leadership, and impact. He was grounded in principles that man him a man of impeccable character and bettered all those he came in contact with. I am grateful to have known him and learned from him.
Tricia Mayer
September 16, 2025
Why a truly wonderful human being. A memory that stands out in my mind was when my Son went in to the military - Tom reached out and shared words with me that gave this mother strength and hope! I will never forget how much that helped me. God bless his family as they go thru this very difficult time. They are in my prayers.
Quang X. Pham
September 16, 2025
I met Tom in 2001 in Orange County when he spoke at an HBS event. We served in the Marine Corps in Southern California, but never crossed paths since he was eight years ahead of me. We stayed in touched over the years through attending events, texts and emails, especially during his years at Panda and most recently in 2022, before he led BRCC´s SPAC onto NYSE. He was a role model, a mentor, and a friend who was always positive and supportive. I also know that he had a love for Marine aviation. Semper fidelis.
C Colbert
September 14, 2025
My condolences to the family. We grieve with you, I´ve always admired Tom´s work ethic, and staying true to our Marine Corps values. He inspired us and used the values and skills to build amazing businesses and has been a positive example. 5.11, Black Rifle Co., you know people by how they build and inspire those around them to be and do better by example, push on and leave things better than they found them. Well done, mission accomplished, welcome to your final duty station Sir, where the streets are guarded by United States Marines.
Mark L Mullinix
September 14, 2025
Sincere Condolences to the Davin family.
-Mark L Mullinix, former First Marines colleague
CWO3 David Bailey, USMC (Ret.)
September 13, 2025
My heart is heavy today. I worked for him in the Operations section of 3rd Reconnaissance Bn (82-83). He was an outstanding officer and boss. I will see him again in Heaven. Semper Fi. David Bailey
Michael Trigona
September 11, 2025
I did not know Mr. Gavin, but I am inspired by his life and courage
And his incredible achievements.
Rest Easy Marine, Michael Trigona USN
Griff Long
September 11, 2025
Tom's achievements were impressive. He served his country as a Marine, mentored young officers, endured the toughest trainings, and later led some of the world's biggest companies. But what impressed me most wasn't the titles or roles. It was how he lived.
Tom fought Parkinson's and ALS, challenges that could have broken most people. Yet he never allowed them to define him. Even when his body forced him to stop, he got up again and kept moving forward. He trained Marines, motivated young people, advised business leaders, and dedicated himself to causes that helped others. He never complained. He never played the victim. He chose to give.
That is who Tom was. A man who kept giving, even when life demanded more than most could handle. A man who carried his country, his family, his friends, and his colleagues on his shoulders and still found room to carry more.
What I learned from Tom will stay with me. Leadership is about serving others. It's about showing up for people even when it's difficult. Greatness means choosing to give when life gives every reason not to. And strength is refusing to become a victim, no matter what challenges you face.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family, fellow Marines, business partners, and everyone who knew him. Tom, I cherish the time we spent together. Your strength will stay with me, and I will honor your memory by carrying your lessons forward.
In loving memory of Tom Davin.
Mike Davis
September 10, 2025
A great Marine and friend, I will always remember our days as young Lts at TBS ... rest easy my friend, rest easy Marine.
Mike Davis
Charlie Baisley
September 10, 2025
I was in the trade show business back in the day and used to see TD at a bunch of them (this was in the 5.11 era) - SHOT, Modern Day Marine, AUSA etc. He ALWAYS had time for people - Marines in particular. He looked you in the eye and made you feel like you were special and important. What a rare, unique, exceptional person. He walked with Kings but never lost the common touch. Semper fi, Charlie Baisley
Peter Grieve
September 9, 2025
It´s hard to write, yet alone contemplate, Tom Davin´s passing. To those who knew him well, he was indestructible.
I first met him in the mid-80´s, and we had a lot in common for our first 30 or so years: US Marine Corps, MBA, Goldman Sachs, with one exception - he was better. I don´t mean that competitively, but from a reference where I was a peer on so many levels, but I looked up to him. Every interaction I had with Tom caused me to step up my game, to be more committed, to be more worthy of the abilities and opportunities with which I had been gifted.
Upon first meeting Tom, one would immediately be taken by his self-confidence (OK, maybe that was second; he was a really handsome fellow!). His self-confidence was not overstated, nor was he cocky - he was just that good, and you knew that this guy could do everything he said he could. No brag; just fact.
One wouldn´t expect it, but Tom could also be humble (in his self-confident way!). I remember visiting him and Molly (whom my wife Carol and I had introduced years earlier) on Martha´s Vineyard, and he wanted to play tennis with me. Knowing he would crush me in tennis, I suggested golf, because even though I was a lousy golfer, the handicap system would allow us to play together. He then told me had "retired" from golf. He had been at a charity golf tournament, and put into a foursome where he knew none of his partners. Being early (another Tom trait), he was on the driving range waiting to meet his foursome. He was shanking everything. Unbeknownst to him, his partners were standing behind him, smirking at how bad this guy was. They introduced themselves, then offered to put a wager on the game. (If you know Tom, he´s not backing down from any challenge.) So as they proceeded to play, Tom hit everything clean: drives, irons, fairways, greens. His partners were fuming, because they felt he had grifted them into a bad bet. It took awhile, but over the course of the round, Tom´s honesty and winning personality convinced them he hadn´t been sandbagging, that he really had been hitting poorly on the range, and now he was in "the Zone", a place he had never been before in golf. By the time the round ended, Tom´s foursome was cheering every shot. He shot par that day, a place he had never been close to before, and a place he knew he would never be again. So he retired at the top of his game. That was Tom Davin.
Later in our careers, Tom and I were having dinner. He was now CEO of Panda Express, and I was a Managing Director of Goldman Sachs. I was feeling pretty good about what I had achieved, and felt that I was at the top of the mountain. Tom told me that achievements no longer mattered to him, it was all about "excellence". Whatever he did going forward, he just had to set a standard of excellence and do it well. I walked away feeling like I needed to measure up once again. He inspired me to do more, to be better.
The last line of the Marines´ Hymn is "If the Army and the Navy ever looked on Heaven´s scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines."
Heaven just got a little safer, and a little more excellent.
You can take off your pack now, Marine. Semper Fi
Amber Cirincione
September 9, 2025
Tom was an extraordinary person who touched countless lives in lasting ways.
I had the privilege of working directly with him at 5.11 for many years. I enjoyed watching him speak to countless large companies, law enforcement, military, and veteran groups about life and leadership. The profound impact he made on so many people will never be forgotten.
Tom´s leadership, generosity, and unwavering spirit will always be remembered with deep affection. My heartfelt condolences to his wonderful family-may you find comfort in the love he shared and the legacy he leaves behind. Rest in peace, TD.
Kyle Wescoat
September 8, 2025
Tom was a great man and great friend. Last spring, Tom and I played golf at Santa Ana CC , and Tom missed a "hole in one" by this much. It was a memorable afternoon. Two guys from Pa. in Orange County. I will miss you my Brother. My sympathies to Molly and the family.
Kyle Wescoat
James Shulson
September 8, 2025
#50 in the program, #1 in my heart. Tom and I lived together in San Clemente from 1980 until late 1982. We both were Marines as well as teammates on the San Diegito men´s lacrosse club. He was a great player and an even better friend. Though our paths only crossed once since those days, it was a pleasure to be his friend, and my life was enriched by spending such quality time with him.
Molly, Meredith, Lexi, and Caroline, my grief will soon be overcome by such great memories of Tom. Please know that you all are in Vicki´s and my thoughts and prayers.
Jim Shulson
Susie Love
September 8, 2025
Molly & family We are all so sad to hear of Tom's passing. We love you & our prayers are with you. Alan, Susie & Bryce Love. Grant and Savannah Willard
Stacey Patton
September 8, 2025
Working alongside Tom Davin was one of the greatest privileges of my career. He was not only an extraordinary executive, sharp in business and vision, but also a leader who never overlooked the individual. Tom had a gift for remembering people, who they were, what drove them, and how to lift them up. Every morning he took the time to say hello, to ask about my life, and to remind me that leadership is about people first. Through his influence, I found inspiration to push harder, dream bigger, and achieve more each day. His passing leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy of integrity, kindness, and encouragement will never fade. To me, he will forever be remembered not just as an exceptional leader, but as a genuine mentor and friend. Rest Easy Tom
Pamela Stevenson
September 8, 2025
Larry and my thoughts are with you Molly, and the girls. We mourn this tragic loss but celebrate his indomitable spirit and amazing accomplishments as a man, a husband, a father.
Paul Donnelly
September 7, 2025
Tom was my mentor and friend. He never failed to make time for me and my sons as we processed business opportunities, career and life choices. He was truly a servant leader with enthusiasm amd selflessness. The Donnelly family will miss Tom Davin. Our heartfelt prayers for peace and strength for the Davin family.
Kip Knight
September 7, 2025
Rest in peace Tom - you were a good and great leader.
Patrick O'Donogue
September 7, 2025
Tom was one of the good guys and will be sorely missed. He had the winning combination of intelligence, humor, empathy, and discipline that together ensured superior results in whatever endeavor he participated in or led. His foundational experiences in the Marines were mirrored in all his subsequent activities and he ensured that the leadership traits and principles that define Marines, particularly setting the example, were manifested in all his personal and professional actions. We will always be grateful for Tom's willingness to be involved and his ability to get things done. Tom truly lived the motto of Semper Fidelis at all the organizations he led, or in his dealings with all the groups he supported. Thank you Tom, for allowing us to share your time and experiences, it has made us all better.
John Schwartz
September 7, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear about Tom´s illness and passing. Your obituary captured his true essence, "a great family man whose natural leadership instincts were achieved through encouragement and empowerment." I have so many GREAT memories in the classroom, outside the classroom and of course in the Harbus office selling full page ads. Julie and my thoughts are with you and the girls. With heartfelt sympathies.
Kent Barkouras
September 6, 2025
I had the privilege of knowing Tom and working with him for 15 years. He was an incredible mentor, husband, father and friend. TD gave me the honor to lead the pledge of allegiance at the opening of the 511 Tactical headquarters in Irvine. RIP Marine. The world will miss you dearly.
Matthew Stevens
September 6, 2025
Had the pleasure of working with TD during his stint as Managing Director at Brentwood Associates. He helped me/us learn how to become effective leaders, taught me/us life long key lesson "pick 3 things - post wins - pick 3 more - drive forward". His family at Bay Club will never forget his friendship, mentorship, and leadership. Sending love to the entire Davin family.
Michael Garcia
September 6, 2025
My favorite pictures of Tom
David Rhoden
September 6, 2025
Thank you for impeccable leadership, all the workouts, and the Rim-to-Rim hikes! You were always squared away. -DR
William "Monsoon" Mimiaga
September 6, 2025
Tom was a "Marines Marine" and was beloved by all. His Legacy will continue through the spirit of all those that he helped and supported. Tom´s credo was to never leave anybody behind and he always was there for our Veterans and their families in need. I was Proud to know him and his support for our Gold Star Families was tremendous and beyond what words could ever describe, as he was "Gods Shepherd" here on earth for those families. He will be so missed, but Tom is now cradled in Gods Loving Arms on the high ground of our Sacred Valhalla. Oooorah and Semper Fi my Marine Brother. Monsoon
William "Monsoon" Mimiaga
September 6, 2025
William "Monsoon" Mimiaga
September 6, 2025
A Beloved "Marines Marine" now cradled in Gods Loving Arms on the high ground of our Sacred Valhalla. Ooooorah and Semper Fi my Brother. Monsoon
William "Monsoon" Mimiaga
September 6, 2025
Mark Slusher
September 6, 2025
It was my privilege to know Tom Davin and to spend 3 years with him at Duke U as his Fraternity big brother and fellow Navy ROTC Officer in training. You could tell even then he was destined for a successful professional career and was personally loved and respected by those he touched.....Tom was a connector....he loved to connected people to other people to support their professional and personal growth. An attribute he inspired in me to do likewise. We went our separate ways for many years but reconnected a couple of years ago and he has not changed a bit. Always positive, optimistic, and ready to lend a hand for a friend. He was so kind to make a huge positive difference in my son´s start in his professional business career for which I will always be greatful. So long my friend....Mark Slusher
Eva Sage-Gavin
September 5, 2025
First met Tom when we were executives at Taco Bell in the 90´s. Love this pic of him in restaurants. He could always be counted on to talk to all the teammates, and roll up his sleeves!
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