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Thomas Hahn Obituary
Obituary
Capt. Thomas F. Hahn, U.S.N. Ret., age 80, died Wednesday on May 23, 2007 after a long illness.
He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Nathalie White Hahn; son, Christopher of Glen Burnie, MD; daughter, Elizabeth and her partner Lisa Sasser of Amherst, NH, children of a former marriage to Elizabeth Curtis (deceased); son, Duane Torrey and wife Linda of Londonderry, NH; daughter, Diane Torrey of Tallahassee, FL; and granddaughter Beverly Hahn of Cockeysville, MD.
After retiring from a 28 year Naval career, Thomas pursued an education at Shepherd College and West Virginia University (WVU) earning a Masters degree in History and PhD in Industrial Archaeology, specializing in the study of Canals. He was president of the American Canal Society from 1972-1997 and a member of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Society. He was an adjunct professor at WVU, authoring several books in his field. Thomas also studied languages, being fluent in many. After 25 years in Shepherdstown, WV and spending summers in Maine, he moved to Fort Myers, FL year round in 1999. Thomas was closely connected with his Native American heritage and was a former Chief of the Kansas Delawares Nation. He was a founding member of All Faiths Unitarian Congregation of Fort Myers.
There will be a memorial service at 5PM, Wednesday, May 30th, at the home of Amanda Evans followed by a Life Celebration Reception at Sabal Springs Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: All Faiths Unitarian Congregation or Hope Hospice, Fort Myers, FL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Hahn
Cindy Freland
August 12, 2020
I never met Tom but his son, Chris, was my boyfriend for 8 years. I was happy to be able to spend his last years with Chris. Chris died of pancreatic cancer in April 2018.
Ned Preston
June 25, 2007
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Association extends sincere condolences to the family of Tom Hahn. He was a strong member of the Association’s inner leadership during its critical early days, and his many achievements included strengthening the Level Walker program that helps to protect the C&O Canal National Historical Park today. Through his towpath guides and other publications, Tom did much to spread knowledge and appreciation of the canal’s history and importance. His memory will continue to be honored by all who value the canal park.
Ron Benfield
June 23, 2007
Though I've never met Tom, I appreciated so much the countless hours he put in over the years to make the C&O Canal a much more interesting place to ride on.
When I bought my book online not long ago, I got a nice friendly note with the book wishing me an enjoyable time on the path.
Some people are passive viewers as life goes by them. Tom was much more than that -- a man with a vision on how to make life better, which thousands of us who never met him in person have benefited by!
We'll miss Tom!
Dave lepkowski
June 9, 2007
My sympathies and condolences go out to the Hahn family. Hope that You are having a great time getting requainted with Gilbert Gude and Doug Faris, Superintendant of the Chesapeake & Ohio canal NHP. You did a greaat job on your guide book on the C & O Canal. Thanks. Saw You back in 2001.
Bob Deister
May 30, 2007
I knew Tom through the Kansas Delaware Tribe and grew to be an admirer and friend as I became more immersed in the history of our tribe. We were descended from the same lineage and I relied on his proven research to learn more of my heritage. He will be much missed. Soar to the Heavens "Swiftwater"!
Maureen Jefferson
May 28, 2007
The beauty of a life well lived never dies. Love and prayers Lee County Genealogical Society
Arlene Zeigler Micucci
May 28, 2007
My Dear Tom, may your crossing over be as high as the Eagle`s honor and that of our most beloved Chief.
I will miss that smile, that friendly hug as a Chief would share his love for the tribe`s children. You are my leader, my
sacred one.
You have taught me pride in my tribe. You showed me respect for what I stand for and live in my heart.
You were always there for me and our people, in thoughts and prayer as I for you.
Wanishi, Aquene.
Kansas Delaware Member
Gail Colmer
May 27, 2007
Condolences to the family. I knew Tom through the Genealogy Society and admired him very much. He was always so helpful. He will be missed.
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