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THOMAS HARRIMAN Obituary

Thomas R. Harriman Passed away peacefully at home, following Easter, on April 9, 2012, after a short illness. Age 93. Born, raised and schooled in San Francisco, he graduated from Sacred Heart High School, where he excelled in baseball, basketball and boxing, leading to a lifelong love of sports. He married his sweetheart, Eileen Kasch, and shortly after the birth of their first child, Tom shipped out to the Pacific in WWII where he served three and one-half years: Philippines, Australia, New Guinea. Tom's entire professional life was spent in the restaurant and hotel supply industry, where he was sought out for his exquisite taste and his eye for detail, especially in the design and selection of fine china, glassware and silverware, which under his supervision graced the tabletops of the best restaurants and signature hotel dining rooms, throughout the West and Hawaii, culminating in the establishment of the Thos. R. Harriman Company, operated by him until his retirement in his 70's. He was known in the industry as the "Tabletop King." He could not enjoy fine dining without turning over the plate to verify his opinion on its origin, and without passing judgment on the tabletop appointments. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Eileen, and their four daughters, Lynn (Colin) Claxon, Justine (Joe) Bacciocco, Carol (Ken) Levin and Janet (Rod) Mettner; seven grandchildren, Kristin, Scott, Dayna, Jacqueline, David, Jennifer and Ryan; and five great-grandchildren, Jason, Justin, Faith, Nathan and Grace; and also by his sister, Rita Mazzuchi, of San Francisco. He was predeceased by his brother, Edmond, and sisters Isabel, Bernadette, Carmel and Justine. A lifelong resident of Greenbrae and parishioner of St. Sebastian's Catholic Church, Tom had a big heart and gave generously of his time as an altar server, participated in parish projects, made deliveries for Whistlestop, and was honored for his dedication and service to St.Vincent de Paul. Tom was a devoted 49'er and Giant's fan. Tom and Eileen and the family spent many delightful summers at Boulder Creek, and became avid golfers. They traveled the world with friends and family. He will be remembered with love and affection by all who knew and worked with him, and those fortunate to enjoy his company. The family is deeply appreciative of the warm and loving care provided by his two wonderful care givers, Anna Valiente and Mari Gomez. A rosary and a memorial mass celebrating his life will be held at St. Sebastian's Church, Greenbrae, on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at 3: 00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Tom's name to the donor's favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Apr. 10 to Apr. 11, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS HARRIMAN

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6 Entries

April 13, 2012

Dear Carol,

Tom was a mentor and friend, may God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jerry and Alice Kirk, Orinda, CA

Janis Conley Ahern

April 12, 2012

Dear Carol and Family,

I send my condolences to you for the loss of your father. I know this is such a difficult time for you all, but so important to remember you have so many wonderful family memories to cherish.

Carol, I have fond memories of growing up in Greenbrae and having many play dates, and occasional overnights at your house. Your parents were always so sweet and welcoming. I have fond memories of your dad making huge french pancakes for a table full of excited little girls. Such a wonderful man!.

Please know you are in our prayers.

April 11, 2012

Dear Eileen and Family, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time. We feel so fortunate to have great memories of all the holiday and family get togethers. With our love, Roxane, Jerry, Melissa and Lauren Elkin

Celeste and Scott Chapman

April 11, 2012

Dear Eileen and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tom was a blessing and treasured friend to all of us at St Sebastian's. His kindness, humble service, and holiness, along with his great sense of humor will always be remembered in my heart. May God's healing grace be of comfort and consolation to you.
In Christ's love and ours,
Celeste and Scott

Dale Fama

April 11, 2012

Dear Eileen and Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.

Tom and I worked together for many years at Dohrmann's... and yes, I still turn over plates!

God Bless you and your family.
Dale and Irene Fama

marian rose power

April 11, 2012

Dear Eileen and Family,
You are in the hearts and prayers of the staff and children at St. Peter's as we ask God to give the fulness of peace to Tom. Eileen,you and he have given so much support and hope to those in need for so many years. May you experience the fulness of love,hope and life that Tom must have with his God. Yes, he shared that love with you and so many on earth and now will only continue from heaven. Mass is offered at St. Peter's for Tom and the whole family. Love and prayers Vicki Butler,Sr. Marian Rose,the staff and children of St. Peter's

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