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Thomas James McLaughlin
05/12/1948 — 02/06/2005
From Pasco, WA, US | Born in Spokane
Thomas James McLaughlin
Thomas James McLaughlin passed suddenly in his sleep on February 6, 2005 at the age of 56.
Tom was born on May 12, 1948 to Dorothy McLaughlin Hess and the late Leo McLaughlin.
He was a beloved father and friend. Tom grew up in Spokane, Washington, and graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1966. He attended Washington State University and earned an undergraduate degree in Bacteriology in 1970. He went on to earn a Masters of Science from the University of Hawaii Manoa in 1974 in Public Health.
Tom married JoAnne Bucholz of Richland. They have two children; Andrew of Seattle and April of Boise. He is also survived by his mother Dorothy Hess of Liberty Lake, Washington and sister Debbie Smith of Veradale, WA.
Toms early jobs formed his legendary work ethic. He was a paper boy and later helped his parents run their small grocery store in Spokane.
He was employed by Battelle and other Hanford Contractors for 31 years and became an expert in environmental regulations.
Tom will be remembered as a hard working, selfless giver. He always believed that community service was paramount. His tireless giving to community, family and friends was legendary. His presence was a blessing to all who knew him.
Tom was a member of the Richland Rotary Club and was active in park development projects. He was a loyal WSU Cougar supporter who enjoyed hosting tailgate activities.
He was also an avid golfer, enjoyed racquetball, playing poker, snow skiing, jet skiing, and never met a barbecue he didnt like.
A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, Feb 10th at Central United Protestant Church at 1124 Stevens Drive in Richland. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Richland Rotary Club Foundation at PO Box 37, Richland WA 98103-0037.
JoAnne and family,
I can’t begin to tell you the sorrow that I feel right now. Tom was a wonderful man and so full of life. I will never forget hearing him tell stories at parties and he and Gene planning the annual Desert Air Open golf outing! They both acted like kids as they planned it and you and I used to joke about how excited they would get over it. That was Tom – full of life! I am in Tennessee right now and won’t make it to the funeral, but please know that I will be thinking about you all and praying that you will be comforted by the good memories throughout the day and every day there after. I am sure he will be watching over all of us now. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you during this time. We will really miss him!!!
Shelly Grohs
JoAnne and family,
Many loving thoughts are going your way and will continue for a long time to come.
JoAnne, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. I know he was the love of your life, your best friend, a loving husband, and a great father.
Tom always had a smile on his face and a marvelous sense of humor.
May God bless you and keep you forever and always. And remember He is there for you at all times.
Love, your friend, Kathy
JoAnne,
You are loved dearly in F&O, you have many friends not just co-workers. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Please let us know if you need anything. Take care.
Sheri Icayan
JoAnne,
Tom and Paul had an opportunity to talk right before Paul left for Knoxville. Tom was a great person to work with and will be very much missed.
You and your family are in our thoughts.
Paul and Karla
JoAnne and family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I only met Tom once, but I could tell that the way he vigorously embraced life and good and others is reflected in the way you do the same. Your marriage has been a testament and a standard, and your friendship means the world.
May God hold you tight and comfort you in this time of loss.
Take care,
Greg and Phuong
Dear JoAnne, It saddens the heart thinking of you and your family’s loss. In times of such loss I have been consoled in the Bible’s hope at Rev. 21:3&4 that says: …”Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” May the God of all comfort be with you and your family in this time of need.
Sincerely, Paul King, friend & co-worker
JoAnne, Andy and April
It was with shock and sadness that I heard of your loss. I will never forget the first time I met Tom and he warned me to watch your driving – you warned me what a joker he was. Since I’ve known you and heard all the stories of your many adventures and trips I secretly wished that I could find a marriage as solid as yours.
Anything I can ever do please let me know. You and your children are in my thoughts and prayers. ~ Paula
At such a time, there isn’t much that anyone can say, but many thoughts go out to you in sympathy today.
Tom was a great person and we were blessed to have known him!
May God bless and strengthen you during this time.
Dear Joanne, Andy, April, Dorthy, Debbie & Ray,
We are shocked and sadden to learn of Tom’s sudden death. We know there are no words to express our sorrow for you, but we want you to know our sympathy and prayers are with you. We are so glad we ran into you on the Oregon coast this past summer. We enjoyed catching up with you and having a beer together. Of coures my fondest memories is Tom being Harley’s best man at our wedding.
Becky and I hold you in our prayers and wish you our condolences. Tom was one of the first people I met when I moved to the Tri-Cities in 1975. We shared numerous good times, including hiking, fishing, golf, and yes, poker. He was always my definition of a true friend, and he will be greatly missed.
Tom’s enthusiasm for parks projects is legendary. We were both very blessed to have known this gentle, fun-loving man for many years. Dave thru the parks at the City of Richland; and Janet thru Battelle.
We will miss him dearly. Our heartfelt condolences to Joanne and the family.
JoAnne
I can not fathom the pain you are enduring right now. I wish I could be there to give you a shoulder and helping hand.
I have faith that your Tom is in a better place right now watching & waiting.
I am so sorry that you will be alone for now, but with the knowledge that you have family and friends who care and are praying for you, then maybe you can be comforted.
Take care.
Your friend, Glenn Buckley
God is with you in your time of sorrow. We are so sorry for your loss and will miss Tom. Please fell free to call if you need anything.
I had the pleasure of working with Tom for last few years. We have difficult times now and then at work, and Tom was always the first one to offer ideas and do something extra. He would take the time to stop by the office, and ask if he could help. I am sad to here of his passing, but I know that he is in the presence of divinity.
Joanne,
Where can I start. First and foremost – thank you for your friendship.
You and Tom lived life. You formed a partnership with Tom that didn’t allow for sitting on the sidelines and letting life and experiences pass you by. There are no rerets when you have lived life, participated in life, enjoyed life, and shared your life with others.
Where would the world be if there wasn’t community and those willing to give back to that community. Tom did a great job giving back to the community.
Again, thank you for your friendship and may Heavenly Father give you the strength to go forward with the wonderful memories of your time with Tom and may you feel Gods arms enfold you with his love at this time of parting with your friend, your soul mate, your partner that you loved and he loved you.
Let me know what I can do to help now and in the future. You won’t be forgotten. There has been a huge outpouring of love and concern for you. What goes around,comes around.
You are one of the sweetest people I know and now it is your turn to receive.
Love, Linda
I guess when I think of Tom, I automatically think of his warm-giving spirit. I also think of his willingness to listen to others with a sympathetic heart and share his wisdom. I can’t help but associate the game of golf with Tom. You could tell he thoroughly enjoyed time with his friends on the course. BUT…..of all these memories, the most distinct impression he left me with was the love of simply being with his son, Andy. I could tell he had the Father-Son realationship that is desired by all. I have lump in my throat as I’m writing this, because I can only imagine how it would feel to loose such a great dad and a close friend at the same time.
I have never met JoAnne or April, but my heart goes out to them. He was a great man, and I will never forget his quality….we should all hope to be the man he was. This is a great loss to all who were lucky enough to have known him.
Shane Loper
I met Tom through work and have known him for the past 2 years. He was so easy to get to know and like.
At work he was extremely competent, but what was even greater was his sense of humor and his hearty laugh. He enjoyed having a good time, but getting the work done at the same time. He was a pleasure to get to know and work with. My heart and prayers go out to his family.
JoAnne: You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during your time of sadness and great loss. Please let us know if you need anything at all. May God bless you and keep His arms tight around you to provide comfort and healing.
Tom: Always a joy to be in his proximity. One always felt a “lift” when Tom was nearby. This loss, at too young an age, will be long and deeply felt by all who knew him.
The following is the message to Radiochemical Processing Laboratory staff at PNNL “As most of you have seen in the announcement today, it is with great sadness that we bid our farewells to Tom McLaughlin. Tom was an outstanding environmental scientist who specialized in resolving regulatory issues, but more importantly Tom was an outstanding human being. Tom was supporting the AMEC Bulk Vitrification Project and was slated to support the upcoming SOGIN Eurex project as well. Our thoughts are with his family. Farewell, Tom. You’ll be missed.” — Jim Buelt
It seems like I’ve known Tom forever. Such a great guy. It feels like losing a brother. Our prayers to Joanne, Andy and April. God must have needed someone for a foresome. Bill & Sherrill Bjorklund
I am sad to hear of Tom’s passing, and will miss him. My condolences to his family.
Our Prayers will Be with you. Tom, Mike Christy and I worked together at Rockwell. together we laid out the plans for the WRAP Facilites. Tom’s professionalism and great sense of humor made work a fun place to go. Today we at Jacobs work with Tom to help clean up Hanford. He was a great guy and good friend. I will miss him.
Regardless of what a bummer of a day anyone was having including himself, Tom would always greet you with a Cheshire cat grin on his face and a guffah! It’s always been refreshing and a great pick-me-upper to see him have a good laugh! We will always remember and miss him! Dave Bratzel and Susan Sande
To Joanne, Andy and April:
Kathryn and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s death. Seeing the McLaughlins has always been something to look forward to in our travels to Richland. Tom’s hospitality was limitless–he was always ready with the barbeque, a ride on the jet-ski, or some good old-fashioned family banter. He was a person who went out of his way to make sure his guests were as happy as they could possibly be. We will miss him, and our thoughts are with you.
Love,
Erich and Kathryn
Michele and I are sorry to hear about Tom’s passing. I know that I will never forget working with him at Battelle and on other CCHPS projects. I also remember for years looking over to the other side of the hockey rink and seeing if he was at the American’s game. We had season tickets in Section XX. Know that you are in our prayers and that Tom will be missed by many. Judson
May you find peace in comfort in this time of loss. Tom was a sweet man, a gentle giant, who always treated people with respect and great kindness. I am truly saddened he has left us so soon. His smile always brightened my day and I am honored to known him.
Tom and I first met in the late 60s at WSU. He and I both majored in Microbiology and Public Health. After he graduated from grad school and got a job at Battelle, we stayed in touch. One day he called and told me Battelle had an opening for someone with my qualifications. Tom put in a good word for me and I got the job. I could not have done it without Tom.
Tom also introduced me to the Battelle Poker Club. He was a charter member and played with the group for 27 years. In the process, he lightened my wallet many times. Ill never forget Toms smiling face as he dealt cards and told jokes at the same time. I will carry that pleasant and charming memory with me forever.
The world is a poorer place without Tom, but he left a lasting legacy of warmth, happy times and a willingness to help others. He will surely be missed.
Fare thee well old friend.
Byron Robertson
We send our sincere sympathy to the family, Ron and Brian Hess are nephews of ours. May God give you peace and surround you with love at this time.
Words can not express our sorrow over the loss Tom. I had the privalage of working with Tom at Bovay Northwest. His sense of humor, guidance, and love of his family was always present. He will be greatly missed.
I am so lucky to have got to know Tom. We had a great time golfing together and always made sure to look for him at the American Hockey Games. He sure will be missed!
Joanne
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. We only had the pleasure of meeting him once at your open house. We enjoyed talking to him and could tell he enjoyed being around people and having a good time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Len & Janis
My condolences on the loss of your loved one. I work in Battelle Contracts and Tom was a wonderful person to work with. He will be very missed by all those who knew him.
Tom had such a positive impact on my life and the lives of hundreds around him. He was a mentor to me early in my career at Bovay. Then and now, I could always count on Tom to give me the latest “G-2” his reference to project information on who, what, where, and when. Tom knew the “G-2” because he knew people, was involved in the community, and was intelligent savy in a way few people are.
Tom had a passion for life that was exemplified by his continuing efforts to get those around him involved with golf outings, BBQs, Duck tickets, poker, jet skiing, Cougar games, hockey, and just plain old fashioned socializing.
One of the subtle things Tom did to show his sincere conection with those around him, was that he would gently place his giant hand on your shoulder or give you a pat on the back when he met you in the hallway or at a hockey game or wherever.
Tom…you are one of those rare people that used the talents God blessed you with to leave a positive, and very indelible mark on this earth. Your smiling face and zeal for life will remain with me for the rest of my life. I will continue to use the life skills and professional skills that you so graciously taught me as a lasting tribute to you.
Until we meet again…..Thank you…..
My thoughts and prayers go out to JoAnne and family. May the Lord provide you with comfort and healing.
Having known and worked with Tom for many years, your loss is mine as well. He was one great guy! I pray your faith will support you in this most troublesome time.
Joanne & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom for the first time at the 2004 Boat Races, then again at the F&O Winter Fest party of 2005. He was an awesome man and his happiness radiated from him.
Please let me know if there is anything Tucker or I can do to help either of you.
You are in our prayers and our thoughts.
Love Melissa
I am a receptionist and met Tom years ago when he would come to the office to meet with others. It always brightened my day when Tom came to see us. I will always remember him smiling and he seemed to have a joy about him. My prayers to Tom’s family. I will miss seeing his smiling face. Marilyn
JoAnne,
I am so sorry to hear the sad news of your husbands passing. My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
Take care,
Lara
Tom has always been a true friend, always there for anyone who needed him and always ready to share a good time. His passing is very painful.
We’ve had so many good times that it’s difficult to pick out one or two of note but those nights catfishing along the Snake River stand out. The peacefull evenings, campfire, and fishing poles out with us hoping that no stupid fish would spoil it by taking our hooks and making us get up and reel it in.
Good by Tom, I hope to see you again later.
Tom was always pleasant and busy at work. He will be missed.
Joanne, April, and Andy,
We wanted to let you know what a beautiful memorial it was today for Tom! Andy and April, your wonderful testimonies to your Dad’s life were inspirational. They reminded us of the wonderful memories we have of your Mom and Dad and the times we shared. But also you reminded us to live life to the fullest, love and cherish your family and to work at things bigger than you are! God bless.
I am very priveleged to have known Tom! I will miss his smiling face always. I am very sorry for the loss of such a great person. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Tom was a great person to have as a boss. He was always happy, optimistic, and upbeat. During the 5 years that Sara and I worked together with Tom at the Bovey office we got married and had both our kids.
Tom would tell us that the reason Sara was here was because she is smarter than the rest of us. This was the type of compliment he was good at, it would give one person some pride and a good laugh from the rest. I use this line with our kids now and then to give them an increased appreciation of their Mom.
Whenever I dreamed up a boondoggle Tom was just about always game for it. We had some great times fishing in Canada with Steve and Andy.
Eric Jensen
I met Tom a couple years ago, working on an Environmental Impact Statement. He was my friend from the day I met him, always offering a smile and encouragement. I saw him driving on the way to work a few days ago, I honked, and he smiled and waved. I will miss him, but take his lesson in kindness and gentileness with me.
I worked with Tom at MACTEC and we always waved to each other at the hockey games. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers to all of his family and friends.
JoAnne:
Know that God is with you and your family. He is the only one who knows what our hearts need, He will provide and He will carry you throughout this difficult moment. You and and your family are in our prayers and in our thoughts.
May God bless you. Please take care.
Raul & Elaine
We lost a great friend and co-worker. I won’t forget the mentoring and good times we had together; staff meetings, golf, beers and friendship. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, JoAnne, April and Andy.
keep watch over your family and friends, Tom. Save us all a place
We were so sorry to learn of Tom’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
JoAnne, Andy, and April:
Hannah and I were deeply saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. We share wonderful memories of Andy and Brian growing up together and the times our families shared as a result. From the minute I met him it was obvious he was a caring man and devoted husband and father. He will live on through all he helped and influenced, and especially you, his family. We offer our deepest condolences.
Joanne, Andy and April:
We know this hurts, hurts a lot and will always hurt. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I remember Tom from the many Rotary volunteer functions and from several tailgating events in Pullman. What a genuinely wonderful guy! Tom exemplifies the best qualities of a Rotarian and a Cougar and he will be sorely missed.
I heard about the wonderful memorial service. I wish I could have attended. It is obvious that Tom touched the lives of an awful lot of people, not least of which is my family. We will always have fond and happy memories of Tom. Our best to JoAnne, Andy and April and the rest of the family.
Tom and I grew up together on 17th street on the south hill in Spokane.
I’ll remember:
riding bikes to Wilson elementary school and Sacajawea junior high, walking to and from Lewis and Clark high school; I’ll remember playing kickball in 17th street, football at Cannon Hill park, pool in the McLaughlin’s basement, building model airplanes, delivering papers for the Spokane Chronicle; I’ll remember Cub Scouts at Wilson School, DeMolay in high school; I’ll remember Tom helping his Dad at the grocery store before we could go play; I’ll remember the Diamond Cup unlimited hydroplane races at Lake Coeur d’Alene and summers at Deer Lake; I’ll remember drinking beer at Rathskellers in cda and Goofys in Spokane; I’ll remember a summer weekend trip we took to the Penticton Peach Festival in Canada and a trip to Lake Tahoe as a quasi bachelor party shortly before Tom and JoAnn were married; and, of course, I’ll remember being best man in his wedding and he being best man in mine.
But most of all, I’ll remember a true friend who was compassionate, kind, generous, honored commitments, worked hard, laughed at my jokes, and was just an all around nice guy. I am thankful for the many fond memories I’ll be able to carryforward of the times I spent with Tom and how he enriched my life through his friendship.
Tom was a dear friend and co-worker. He really gave me my start at Battelle. I was his “secretary” in 1986-87. He knew of an opening coming up at 324 Bldg. and made sure I was “Q” cleared so I could apply for the job. I did and I got it and 324 was my home for 10 years until Battelle turned it over to B&W. Because I always initialed Tom’s phone messages I took with “rt” he nicknamed me R-T, which many many people still call me today. I will miss his quiet humor and support. God Bless Tom and my heart is with JoAnne. :rt
Hi Joanne,
We were shocked to hear of Tom’s sudden passing. Our prayers go out to you and your family. May God bless you.
Jerry and Renette Martin
Joanne — God wants us to take comfort in the fact that He is close. He isn’t going anywhere, and no matter how scary things get, He is our rock. My prayers are with you and your family.
JoAnne, April, and Andy. My heart morns with you in the death of your husband and father. You are in my prayers. With love and concern. Peggy
Dear JoAnne:
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You had the kind of blessed marriage that I loved to hear about…. how you treasured each other and had so much fun. Take care.
Sincerely
Dawnelle
JoAnne and family,
I can’t begin to tell you the sorrow that I feel right now. Tom was a wonderful man and so full of life. I will never forget hearing him tell stories at parties and he and Gene planning the annual Desert Air Open golf outing! They both acted like kids as they planned it and you and I used to joke about how excited they would get over it. That was Tom – full of life! I am in Tennessee right now and won’t make it to the funeral, but please know that I will be thinking about you all and praying that you will be comforted by the good memories throughout the day and every day there after. I am sure he will be watching over all of us now. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you during this time. We will really miss him!!!
Shelly Grohs
JoAnne and family,
Many loving thoughts are going your way and will continue for a long time to come.
JoAnne, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. I know he was the love of your life, your best friend, a loving husband, and a great father.
Tom always had a smile on his face and a marvelous sense of humor.
May God bless you and keep you forever and always. And remember He is there for you at all times.
Love, your friend, Kathy
JoAnne,
You are loved dearly in F&O, you have many friends not just co-workers. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Please let us know if you need anything. Take care.
Sheri Icayan
JoAnne,
Tom and Paul had an opportunity to talk right before Paul left for Knoxville. Tom was a great person to work with and will be very much missed.
You and your family are in our thoughts.
Paul and Karla
JoAnne and family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I only met Tom once, but I could tell that the way he vigorously embraced life and good and others is reflected in the way you do the same. Your marriage has been a testament and a standard, and your friendship means the world.
May God hold you tight and comfort you in this time of loss.
Take care,
Greg and Phuong
Dear JoAnne, It saddens the heart thinking of you and your family’s loss. In times of such loss I have been consoled in the Bible’s hope at Rev. 21:3&4 that says: …”Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” May the God of all comfort be with you and your family in this time of need.
Sincerely, Paul King, friend & co-worker
JoAnne, Andy and April
It was with shock and sadness that I heard of your loss. I will never forget the first time I met Tom and he warned me to watch your driving – you warned me what a joker he was. Since I’ve known you and heard all the stories of your many adventures and trips I secretly wished that I could find a marriage as solid as yours.
Anything I can ever do please let me know. You and your children are in my thoughts and prayers. ~ Paula
At such a time, there isn’t much that anyone can say, but many thoughts go out to you in sympathy today.
Tom was a great person and we were blessed to have known him!
May God bless and strengthen you during this time.
Dear Joanne, Andy, April, Dorthy, Debbie & Ray,
We are shocked and sadden to learn of Tom’s sudden death. We know there are no words to express our sorrow for you, but we want you to know our sympathy and prayers are with you. We are so glad we ran into you on the Oregon coast this past summer. We enjoyed catching up with you and having a beer together. Of coures my fondest memories is Tom being Harley’s best man at our wedding.
Becky and I hold you in our prayers and wish you our condolences. Tom was one of the first people I met when I moved to the Tri-Cities in 1975. We shared numerous good times, including hiking, fishing, golf, and yes, poker. He was always my definition of a true friend, and he will be greatly missed.
Tom’s enthusiasm for parks projects is legendary. We were both very blessed to have known this gentle, fun-loving man for many years. Dave thru the parks at the City of Richland; and Janet thru Battelle.
We will miss him dearly. Our heartfelt condolences to Joanne and the family.
JoAnne
I can not fathom the pain you are enduring right now. I wish I could be there to give you a shoulder and helping hand.
I have faith that your Tom is in a better place right now watching & waiting.
I am so sorry that you will be alone for now, but with the knowledge that you have family and friends who care and are praying for you, then maybe you can be comforted.
Take care.
Your friend, Glenn Buckley
God is with you in your time of sorrow. We are so sorry for your loss and will miss Tom. Please fell free to call if you need anything.
I had the pleasure of working with Tom for last few years. We have difficult times now and then at work, and Tom was always the first one to offer ideas and do something extra. He would take the time to stop by the office, and ask if he could help. I am sad to here of his passing, but I know that he is in the presence of divinity.
Joanne,
Where can I start. First and foremost – thank you for your friendship.
You and Tom lived life. You formed a partnership with Tom that didn’t allow for sitting on the sidelines and letting life and experiences pass you by. There are no rerets when you have lived life, participated in life, enjoyed life, and shared your life with others.
Where would the world be if there wasn’t community and those willing to give back to that community. Tom did a great job giving back to the community.
Again, thank you for your friendship and may Heavenly Father give you the strength to go forward with the wonderful memories of your time with Tom and may you feel Gods arms enfold you with his love at this time of parting with your friend, your soul mate, your partner that you loved and he loved you.
Let me know what I can do to help now and in the future. You won’t be forgotten. There has been a huge outpouring of love and concern for you. What goes around,comes around.
You are one of the sweetest people I know and now it is your turn to receive.
Love, Linda
I guess when I think of Tom, I automatically think of his warm-giving spirit. I also think of his willingness to listen to others with a sympathetic heart and share his wisdom. I can’t help but associate the game of golf with Tom. You could tell he thoroughly enjoyed time with his friends on the course. BUT…..of all these memories, the most distinct impression he left me with was the love of simply being with his son, Andy. I could tell he had the Father-Son realationship that is desired by all. I have lump in my throat as I’m writing this, because I can only imagine how it would feel to loose such a great dad and a close friend at the same time.
I have never met JoAnne or April, but my heart goes out to them. He was a great man, and I will never forget his quality….we should all hope to be the man he was. This is a great loss to all who were lucky enough to have known him.
Shane Loper
I met Tom through work and have known him for the past 2 years. He was so easy to get to know and like.
At work he was extremely competent, but what was even greater was his sense of humor and his hearty laugh. He enjoyed having a good time, but getting the work done at the same time. He was a pleasure to get to know and work with. My heart and prayers go out to his family.
JoAnne: You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during your time of sadness and great loss. Please let us know if you need anything at all. May God bless you and keep His arms tight around you to provide comfort and healing.
Tom: Always a joy to be in his proximity. One always felt a “lift” when Tom was nearby. This loss, at too young an age, will be long and deeply felt by all who knew him.
The following is the message to Radiochemical Processing Laboratory staff at PNNL “As most of you have seen in the announcement today, it is with great sadness that we bid our farewells to Tom McLaughlin. Tom was an outstanding environmental scientist who specialized in resolving regulatory issues, but more importantly Tom was an outstanding human being. Tom was supporting the AMEC Bulk Vitrification Project and was slated to support the upcoming SOGIN Eurex project as well. Our thoughts are with his family. Farewell, Tom. You’ll be missed.” — Jim Buelt
It seems like I’ve known Tom forever. Such a great guy. It feels like losing a brother. Our prayers to Joanne, Andy and April. God must have needed someone for a foresome. Bill & Sherrill Bjorklund
I am sad to hear of Tom’s passing, and will miss him. My condolences to his family.
Our Prayers will Be with you. Tom, Mike Christy and I worked together at Rockwell. together we laid out the plans for the WRAP Facilites. Tom’s professionalism and great sense of humor made work a fun place to go. Today we at Jacobs work with Tom to help clean up Hanford. He was a great guy and good friend. I will miss him.
Regardless of what a bummer of a day anyone was having including himself, Tom would always greet you with a Cheshire cat grin on his face and a guffah! It’s always been refreshing and a great pick-me-upper to see him have a good laugh! We will always remember and miss him! Dave Bratzel and Susan Sande
To Joanne, Andy and April:
Kathryn and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s death. Seeing the McLaughlins has always been something to look forward to in our travels to Richland. Tom’s hospitality was limitless–he was always ready with the barbeque, a ride on the jet-ski, or some good old-fashioned family banter. He was a person who went out of his way to make sure his guests were as happy as they could possibly be. We will miss him, and our thoughts are with you.
Love,
Erich and Kathryn
Michele and I are sorry to hear about Tom’s passing. I know that I will never forget working with him at Battelle and on other CCHPS projects. I also remember for years looking over to the other side of the hockey rink and seeing if he was at the American’s game. We had season tickets in Section XX. Know that you are in our prayers and that Tom will be missed by many. Judson
May you find peace in comfort in this time of loss. Tom was a sweet man, a gentle giant, who always treated people with respect and great kindness. I am truly saddened he has left us so soon. His smile always brightened my day and I am honored to known him.
Tom and I first met in the late 60s at WSU. He and I both majored in Microbiology and Public Health. After he graduated from grad school and got a job at Battelle, we stayed in touch. One day he called and told me Battelle had an opening for someone with my qualifications. Tom put in a good word for me and I got the job. I could not have done it without Tom.
Tom also introduced me to the Battelle Poker Club. He was a charter member and played with the group for 27 years. In the process, he lightened my wallet many times. Ill never forget Toms smiling face as he dealt cards and told jokes at the same time. I will carry that pleasant and charming memory with me forever.
The world is a poorer place without Tom, but he left a lasting legacy of warmth, happy times and a willingness to help others. He will surely be missed.
Fare thee well old friend.
Byron Robertson
We send our sincere sympathy to the family, Ron and Brian Hess are nephews of ours. May God give you peace and surround you with love at this time.
Words can not express our sorrow over the loss Tom. I had the privalage of working with Tom at Bovay Northwest. His sense of humor, guidance, and love of his family was always present. He will be greatly missed.
I am so lucky to have got to know Tom. We had a great time golfing together and always made sure to look for him at the American Hockey Games. He sure will be missed!
Joanne
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. We only had the pleasure of meeting him once at your open house. We enjoyed talking to him and could tell he enjoyed being around people and having a good time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Len & Janis
My condolences on the loss of your loved one. I work in Battelle Contracts and Tom was a wonderful person to work with. He will be very missed by all those who knew him.
Tom had such a positive impact on my life and the lives of hundreds around him. He was a mentor to me early in my career at Bovay. Then and now, I could always count on Tom to give me the latest “G-2” his reference to project information on who, what, where, and when. Tom knew the “G-2” because he knew people, was involved in the community, and was intelligent savy in a way few people are.
Tom had a passion for life that was exemplified by his continuing efforts to get those around him involved with golf outings, BBQs, Duck tickets, poker, jet skiing, Cougar games, hockey, and just plain old fashioned socializing.
One of the subtle things Tom did to show his sincere conection with those around him, was that he would gently place his giant hand on your shoulder or give you a pat on the back when he met you in the hallway or at a hockey game or wherever.
Tom…you are one of those rare people that used the talents God blessed you with to leave a positive, and very indelible mark on this earth. Your smiling face and zeal for life will remain with me for the rest of my life. I will continue to use the life skills and professional skills that you so graciously taught me as a lasting tribute to you.
Until we meet again…..Thank you…..
My thoughts and prayers go out to JoAnne and family. May the Lord provide you with comfort and healing.
Having known and worked with Tom for many years, your loss is mine as well. He was one great guy! I pray your faith will support you in this most troublesome time.
Joanne & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom for the first time at the 2004 Boat Races, then again at the F&O Winter Fest party of 2005. He was an awesome man and his happiness radiated from him.
Please let me know if there is anything Tucker or I can do to help either of you.
You are in our prayers and our thoughts.
Love Melissa
I am a receptionist and met Tom years ago when he would come to the office to meet with others. It always brightened my day when Tom came to see us. I will always remember him smiling and he seemed to have a joy about him. My prayers to Tom’s family. I will miss seeing his smiling face. Marilyn
JoAnne,
I am so sorry to hear the sad news of your husbands passing. My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
Take care,
Lara
Tom has always been a true friend, always there for anyone who needed him and always ready to share a good time. His passing is very painful.
We’ve had so many good times that it’s difficult to pick out one or two of note but those nights catfishing along the Snake River stand out. The peacefull evenings, campfire, and fishing poles out with us hoping that no stupid fish would spoil it by taking our hooks and making us get up and reel it in.
Good by Tom, I hope to see you again later.
Tom was always pleasant and busy at work. He will be missed.
Joanne, April, and Andy,
We wanted to let you know what a beautiful memorial it was today for Tom! Andy and April, your wonderful testimonies to your Dad’s life were inspirational. They reminded us of the wonderful memories we have of your Mom and Dad and the times we shared. But also you reminded us to live life to the fullest, love and cherish your family and to work at things bigger than you are! God bless.
I am very priveleged to have known Tom! I will miss his smiling face always. I am very sorry for the loss of such a great person. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Tom was a great person to have as a boss. He was always happy, optimistic, and upbeat. During the 5 years that Sara and I worked together with Tom at the Bovey office we got married and had both our kids.
Tom would tell us that the reason Sara was here was because she is smarter than the rest of us. This was the type of compliment he was good at, it would give one person some pride and a good laugh from the rest. I use this line with our kids now and then to give them an increased appreciation of their Mom.
Whenever I dreamed up a boondoggle Tom was just about always game for it. We had some great times fishing in Canada with Steve and Andy.
Eric Jensen
I met Tom a couple years ago, working on an Environmental Impact Statement. He was my friend from the day I met him, always offering a smile and encouragement. I saw him driving on the way to work a few days ago, I honked, and he smiled and waved. I will miss him, but take his lesson in kindness and gentileness with me.
I worked with Tom at MACTEC and we always waved to each other at the hockey games. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers to all of his family and friends.
JoAnne:
Know that God is with you and your family. He is the only one who knows what our hearts need, He will provide and He will carry you throughout this difficult moment. You and and your family are in our prayers and in our thoughts.
May God bless you. Please take care.
Raul & Elaine
We lost a great friend and co-worker. I won’t forget the mentoring and good times we had together; staff meetings, golf, beers and friendship. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, JoAnne, April and Andy.
keep watch over your family and friends, Tom. Save us all a place
We were so sorry to learn of Tom’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
JoAnne, Andy, and April:
Hannah and I were deeply saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. We share wonderful memories of Andy and Brian growing up together and the times our families shared as a result. From the minute I met him it was obvious he was a caring man and devoted husband and father. He will live on through all he helped and influenced, and especially you, his family. We offer our deepest condolences.
Joanne, Andy and April:
We know this hurts, hurts a lot and will always hurt. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I remember Tom from the many Rotary volunteer functions and from several tailgating events in Pullman. What a genuinely wonderful guy! Tom exemplifies the best qualities of a Rotarian and a Cougar and he will be sorely missed.
I heard about the wonderful memorial service. I wish I could have attended. It is obvious that Tom touched the lives of an awful lot of people, not least of which is my family. We will always have fond and happy memories of Tom. Our best to JoAnne, Andy and April and the rest of the family.
Tom and I grew up together on 17th street on the south hill in Spokane.
I’ll remember:
riding bikes to Wilson elementary school and Sacajawea junior high, walking to and from Lewis and Clark high school; I’ll remember playing kickball in 17th street, football at Cannon Hill park, pool in the McLaughlin’s basement, building model airplanes, delivering papers for the Spokane Chronicle; I’ll remember Cub Scouts at Wilson School, DeMolay in high school; I’ll remember Tom helping his Dad at the grocery store before we could go play; I’ll remember the Diamond Cup unlimited hydroplane races at Lake Coeur d’Alene and summers at Deer Lake; I’ll remember drinking beer at Rathskellers in cda and Goofys in Spokane; I’ll remember a summer weekend trip we took to the Penticton Peach Festival in Canada and a trip to Lake Tahoe as a quasi bachelor party shortly before Tom and JoAnn were married; and, of course, I’ll remember being best man in his wedding and he being best man in mine.
But most of all, I’ll remember a true friend who was compassionate, kind, generous, honored commitments, worked hard, laughed at my jokes, and was just an all around nice guy. I am thankful for the many fond memories I’ll be able to carryforward of the times I spent with Tom and how he enriched my life through his friendship.
Tom was a dear friend and co-worker. He really gave me my start at Battelle. I was his “secretary” in 1986-87. He knew of an opening coming up at 324 Bldg. and made sure I was “Q” cleared so I could apply for the job. I did and I got it and 324 was my home for 10 years until Battelle turned it over to B&W. Because I always initialed Tom’s phone messages I took with “rt” he nicknamed me R-T, which many many people still call me today. I will miss his quiet humor and support. God Bless Tom and my heart is with JoAnne. :rt
Hi Joanne,
We were shocked to hear of Tom’s sudden passing. Our prayers go out to you and your family. May God bless you.
Jerry and Renette Martin
Joanne — God wants us to take comfort in the fact that He is close. He isn’t going anywhere, and no matter how scary things get, He is our rock. My prayers are with you and your family.
JoAnne, April, and Andy. My heart morns with you in the death of your husband and father. You are in my prayers. With love and concern. Peggy
Dear JoAnne:
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You had the kind of blessed marriage that I loved to hear about…. how you treasured each other and had so much fun. Take care.
Sincerely
Dawnelle
Joanne,
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. God Bless you and your family.
My deepest and heartfelt sympathy go to you and your family.
Dear JoAnn & Family, We just returned from our 2 week trip to Phoenix and saw that your beloved Tom passed away. We are so sorry and our sincere sympathies are with you all. If there is anything we can do, please let us know. Love, Ray & Connie
It was a pleasure working with Tom. He was the type of person that you wanted to be around – always positive, kind and generous. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Tom was my first boss out of college. But I will remembered him as a dear friend and mentor that you could always count on. He will be missed by many.
Joanne, I am so sorry to hear this. Tom and you are in my thoughts. It is hard to grasp why things like this happen to such good people.
Bill Andrews & Vicky Carwein
Joann, our sincerest sypathy for your family’s loss. Tom was a wonderful person to know and work with and will be missed by all. Our prayers are with you, your children and other family members.
I knew Tom when he worked with me at Waste Services. He was always in good spirits which made working with him a pleasure. He was a good man and will be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with JoAnne and the family and would like to express our thoughts.
I worked with Tom for some time, and he always made you feel you were working with him, rather than for him.
We will always remember the barbacues and get togethers we had with Tom.
He will always be in our thoughts.
It was always a pleasure to work with Tom.
Dear Jo and family,
I will always remember Tom’s good humor and will count him as a friend. He was my introduction to Hanford, and his good advice aided me greatly. He will be missed.
Roger Brown
Please accept our most sincerely condolences for the sudden and untimely loss of your beloved father and husband.
Both Joe and I have worked with Tom off and on for the last 18 years. He was an accomplished environmental professional, who solved every problem with skill and professionalism.
But he was more. He brought a warmth, a sense of humor, and a calming influence to any situation. He shared his kind spirit and graced us all.
Lucinda Borneman and Joe Rivera
Joanne,
There are no words that can truly ease your pain right now, but your trust in God’s plan will carry you through.
My prayers are for you and your family.
Larry
Guestbook for
Thomas James McLaughlin