Obituary

Thomas J. Hanahan Jr.
11/10/1934 - 4/3/2009

Thomas J. Hanahan, husband, father, gramps, born in Chicago, Ill., passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on April 3, 2009.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Sandee; and his four children, Thomas J. Hanahan III of Chicago, Ill., Karen Holycross and husband, Dan of Baton Rouge, La., Connie Molland and husband, Rick of Asheville, NC and David Hanahan of Minneapolis, Minn.; grandfather of Sarah Bo Morel and husband, Brian of Germany and Lindsay Street and husband, Henry Ryan of Eastern NC; and proud great-grandfather of Aiden and Sophia Morel. He will also be missed by his mother, Madeline Hanahan; brothers, Bob Hanahan and wife, Ida, Phil Hanahan and fiance Carole, all from the Chicago area; and sister, Marilyn Ferro and husband, Enrique of Temecula, Calif.

He attended St. Ignatius High School in Chicago and, subsequently, graduated as journeyman carpenter from the Carpenter's Apprentice School. Tom served from 1951 to 1953 in the US Navy Seabees in the Korean War. He was elected in 1964 to the Illinois State Legislature on an at-large ballot and went on to serve the citizens of Illinois for 18 years. His tenure in the legislature is best remembered as being a strong champion for labor issues. He served as the State Chair for the young Democrats for the State of Illinois, and was honored to serve as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1968 and again in 1974. After retiring from the legislature, Tom worked his way up through the ranks of the International United Brotherhood of Carpenters with the high point as Vice President of the Executive Board.

Tom was a 50+ year active member of both the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Union and the Knights of Columbus. With the Knights of Columbus, Tom served as a Grand Knight of the Thomas D Riley County 1068, Hilton Head Island, SC and as a past faithful navigator of the Hilton Head Assembly of the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.

Tom was a current member of the Prescott American Legion Post 6 and of Council 1032 Knights of Columbus. Tom always lived each day to the fullest, enjoying traveling, woodworking, golfing, sailing, cooking (known for his Bridgidini's and Irish Soda Bread) and spending quality time with his family.

A Rosary service will be at 7P.M. Monday, April 6, 2009, at Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Family Funeral Homes, corner of Cortez and Carleton with Rev. James Kirchner officiating. A Celebration Mass will be at 11am Tuesday, April 7, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Darryl Olds with a Chalice service by Bishop Green Assembly of the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. Inurnment will be at 11am Wednesday, April 8, at Prescott National Cemetery with military honor by American Legion Post #6.

http://www.ruffnerwakelin.com/services.asp?page=odetail&id=779

Update April 4

From Tom's son David:

Dad/Gramps died at about 5 a.m. April 3 at home with Sandee by his side. He spent his last day in apparently no pain and looked very restful and at peace. Connie and I, as well as Sandee's very good friend Maggie, were at their home for the past few days and Uncle Bob and Tommy came in to town Friday.

We are planning a Rosary Service 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, and a Celebration Mass 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. An Inurnment will be at Prescott National Cemetery 11 a.m. Wednesday. The specifics should on the funeral home Web site soon. 

We are suggesting memorials to YRMC Hospice, Restricted Fund, 3262 N. Windsong Drive, Prescott AZ 86314. This organization has created a Memorial Golf Tournament in Dad/Gramps' honor. Also, flowers may be sent directly to the funeral home prior to Monday's service.

He will be missed by the many people he has touched during his life. He told us a while back how much he really appreciated all the cards and prayers.

Daily Courier obituary:

http://www.dcourier.com/main.asp?SectionID=167&SubSectionID=468&ArticleID=66589&TM=66630.96 

Funeral home Web site:

http://www.ruffnerwakelin.com/home.asp

March 18, 2009

Friends and family have been wonderful in showing their support for the Hanahans. Here are some pictures from Connie, Tom's daughter, from their visit.

Aiden and his great grandfather:

Sophia and her great grandfather:


Some of the family:


Here is what Connie wrote:

The first 2 pics are of Gramps with his 2 great grandchildren, Aiden in the hot tub and Sophia at the Chinese restaurant. Rick took the last picture of us all and Brian was visiting his parents in NY so they're not in this photo. Dad/Gramps had some pretty good days while we were there. We went to the Olive Garden on Friday and then Sandee made a fabulous corned beef and cabbage dinner on Saturday in honor of St Patty's Day (several days early because of travel schedules). We had key lime pie (green!) and "wedding" pie (meringue pie: affectionately called wedding pie b/c that's what Karen and Dan had after they got married). Of course, we also had Guiness beer.

Karen's wedding

Karen, Tom's daughter, got married last week to Dan. Tom was there to give his first daughter, second child away.

Visiting Tom

Here is an update from Lindsay (this blogger), Tom's granddaughter:

I arrived yesterday afternoon. Out of coincidence and circumstance rather than planned, my dad, Bill, ended up picking me up for a dual visit. He only stayed the afternoon and into the early evening, whereas I will remain until Monday.

The first thing that strikes you when you see Gramps is how strong he looks and his overall presence is as vibrant as ever. His voice was doing very well yesterday afternoon and he even took time to talk business and politics with us (perhaps two of his favorite subjects).

In a corner in the dining room is a stack of cards from well-wishers. Sandee commented on how Gramps is insisting on getting a thank you note to each person who has written. It is truly amazing to look at how many people have written -- and even more amazing that each has received a thank you card in return.

This morning, Jim from the church came over to talk with Gramps and give communion to both Gramps and Sandee. Sandee tells me that he comes over daily.

Already, Gramps and I have had a nice political discussion this morning. He has talked to two people over the phone. His voice is strong as ever this morning.

He's also finished one paper and he's likely onto another paper soon, if he ever stops talking.

I hope to update you later this weekend. Sarah Bo, Brian, Sophia and Aiden are due in tomorrow. They arrive in Phoenix tonight, but won't make the trip to Prescott until Sunday.

(Pictured: Tom and his eldest son, Tommy, golfing over Thanksgiving)

Going to Arizona?

Since Tom has such a great support system all over the country, his daughter Connie thought it would be prudent to post everybodies' itinerary here.

So far:

Feb. 26: Marilyn and the Chalmers
Feb. 26-March 2: Dan
Feb. 27: Jarod
March 6 - Bill
March 6-9 - Lindsay
March 7-17 - Morels

March 13-16 - Mollands
March 23 - Phil, Bob and Mom (Big Gram)

Let's keep this as current as possible. Please either put your dates you plan to spend in Arizona in the comment section of this post or e-mail me.

(Pictured: Tom with wife Sandee at a casino in Prescott over Christmas. Don't let the gingerbread houses fool you; they were there to gamble! Just kidding!)

How to post a comment

I believe comments are reserved to Gmail.com account holders. I could be wrong, but I have been unable to figure it out otherwise. Feel free to point out my mistake.

If you have a gmail account:

1. At the end of the post, click "comments." This will allow you to see other people's comments, too.

-OR-

1. Click on the post you wish to see on the left side of the page. For example "Going to Arizona?" will take you to that post and display all comments.

2. There is an option to "post comment." Click in the box and write your text.

3. Select scroll down menu under "comment as." Click Google account and follow the instructions.

I find it is easier to post comments if I have already signed into my gmail account for the day and then click on the blogspot page.

Please let me know if you need help!

9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25

Update from Karen:

In the past couple days, Gramps had two great friends visit and that really perked him up. He loved talking about the good old days and I heard stories I've never heard before.

He woke up this morning and delivered coffee to Sandee - and as a bonus, he did a little Irish Jig for her! He is now outside (it's about 65 degrees) and he's cleaning the table and chairs so we can all enjoy the beautiful mountain views.

I know he's half Italian and half Irish, but me thinks there's a little Energizer Bunny there too!

Gramps is looking forward to visits from many who have called and written. He does get tired, so these visits are best mid-day and for short periods.

He has received no less than 50 cards and letters so far, and from all over the country. Sandee, Gramps, and I have never realized the goodness, love and support from so many. We thank them all.

Miracle Prayer for Tom

Tom's wife Sandee has requested the blog put up the Miracle Prayer.

Lord Jesus, I come before you just as I am. I am sorry for my sins, please forgive me.
In your name, I forgive all others for what they have done against me.

I renounce Satan, the evil spirits and all their works.

I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life, Lord Jesus,
I accept you as my Lord, God and Savior.
Heal me, change me, strengthen me in mind, body, soul and spirit.

Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your precious blood and fill me with your Holy Spirit.
I love you Lord Jesus, I praise you Jesus, I thank you Jesus, I shall follow you everyday of my life.

Amen

Please keep Tom and Sandee in your prayers!

According to Sandee, Tom had the biggest grin when he came home on Tuesday night. I know both are extremely relieved to leave the confines of the hospital.

A side note from the blogger (Tom's granddaughter Lindsay):

I'd like to share what Gramps said to me on Sunday: "Make the best of what you got."

In years past, I know I'm not alone in getting wonderful advice from him. It has ranged from the every day to the political and much more.

He's probably the reason why I'm a Democrat. In fact, he sufficiently scared me of ever becoming a Republican when he took me to a pirate-themed restaurant and pointed to a hole in the ground where prisoners cried out in agony. Gramps pointed to the hole and said, "That's where they throw them Republicans."

Being a good girl, there is no way I wanted to get thrown down there! I still remember being appalled to learn my own father voted for a Republican ... I thought he'd get thrown in the brig!

Even outside politics, I've always taken his advice (for the most part), and I think it would do us well to take his advice now. So, starting today, make the best of what you got and live life to the fullest.

7 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18

Just got an update from David. Here it is:

Yesterday we busted Dad/Gramps out of the hospital. He slept in his own bed with all his girls (wife and dogs) and is in good spirits this morning.

The plan at the hospital was to have another biopsy/surgery on Monday with no treatment or tests until then. So, Sandee pressed the doctors to meet with them and, near the end of the day yesterday, they came by.

Dad/Gramps and Sandee will have some decisions to make over the next few weeks, but there was no reason for him to wait it out in the hospital, so we had him discharged and brought him home. We could tell Dad's throat was sore because I drove two hours with him in the back seat and he didn't say anything about my driving or which lane I should be in!

He still has a sore throat and has to be careful about eating. The specialist recommended to puree the foods as Dad/Gramps did better with that yesterday. I went shopping last night to get prescriptions and some initial trials of soon-to-be pureed food.

I will be leaving today as I think Dad is in great hands with Sandee and their neighbors (who are wanting to help with errands, etc). I want to give Dad and Sandee some privacy until Karen arrives on Friday.

I'm sure Sandee will want to add some of the details soon.

(Pictured, Tom making his famous Soda Bread on Christmas Day 2008)

4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17

Tom is going home tonight!!!

The doctors have giving some initial diagnosis, with results still coming in. Treatment options will be discussed this week through Monday.

Due to the hectic nature of the past few days, the painful aspiration on the throat, and the general nature of the hospital visit, the Hanahans have requested no phone calls tonight.

Karen will be out Friday to be with the family.

Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17

Karen, Tom's daughter, has sent an update on him.

Gramps had a "swallow test" and he is now on semi-soft food. The docs were pleased with the aspiration of the mass on his neck and will not have to do a biopsy after all.

They are now saying they want him to stay in the hospital for a few more days. Somehow I don't think that went over well with Gramps!!

I'll be going out on Thursday or Friday, depending on flights.

5 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17

Here is an update from Tom's son, David, who -- thank goodness -- was in Phoenix when Tom was admitted to the hospital. He's been able to really help out during this stressful time.

So, just before we left (last night, Feb. 16) we were able to get him dinner. He ate well (Salisbury steak, mashed potato's, tomato soup and iced tea) and was still feeling good. His throat is bothering him a little and talking a lot probably hurts, but Tom Hanahan doesn't normally talk a lot does he? Well, needless to say, he's been talking a lot. He now knows where every doctor and nurse grew up, what there ancestry is, do they have families, siblings, where they went to college, etc.

I think the reason they moved him was because they knew he needed new people to ask questions about their personal lives ... ha ha.

As you know, today (Feb. 16) was pretty frustrating as activity was slow and information from doctors was even slower. We have been trying to be patient, but we're all getting tired waiting. Dad/Gramps is getting a little anxious and both Sandee and I are tired - it's amazing how exhausting just sitting at a hospital can be.

So after Gramps/Dad ate dinner, he was getting tired and Sandee and I drove back up the mountain to Prescott. After the dogs were fed and Sandee got some rest she called the nurses station and found out that the oncologist had finally visited and still needs the biopsy results. The nurse indicated that it will probably be around noon (today, Feb. 17) before those results come back.

Anyway, Sandee has been very strong - amazingly strong. This is really tough on her and I know she really appreciates the support she's been getting from everyone.

I'm planning on staying here until at least when Gramps/Dad has an idea what he's up against. Which, by the way we know this: He has a significant sized "mass" in his neck (2" X 1" or so) and two quarter sized lesions on his head (one on top and another around one of his temples) and they just found a small spot on one of his lungs. Without the oncologist's prognosis, they cannot put a name to the growths. He is having some problems swallowing right now and his throat is a little sore (probably from talking too much).

Sandee and I are driving back down the mountain to the hospital in the morning. We will certainly make some calls if/when we hear something as I am sure Dad/Gramps will be taking charge (as usual) and making decisions. He has been very strong, but the uncertainty he's up against is tough even for the greatest of men.

I'm thankful for Sandee's strength and that I am here for both of them in any small way that I may help.

This blog will update you as soon as we hear more later today.

(Pictured: Hanahan family at Tom and Sandee's Prescott home during Thanksgiving 2008. Provided by daughter Karen)

Update, Monday Feb. 16 II

The biopsy slides are just now being dropped off at the lab. They moved Tom out of ICU to Room 6N16 at St. Joseph's in Phoenix.

Results expected tomorrow.

Update, Monday Feb. 16

Right now, Tom is still in the hospital and is undergoing a biopsy. Hopefully we will know more in 24 hours.

Sandee reports he was cheerful and reading the paper today.

Keep up the prayers!

(Pictured, Tom in Italy in 2007)

About this blog

On Thursday, Feb. 12, Tom Hanahan went to the hospital.

Due to his extensive number of friends and family, his wife Sandee and son David thought a readily accessible blog would help keep every one informed.

I will share some of the pictures I have of Grampa Tom on this blog as well. If you want to add your picture of him, please e-mail me lindsay (dot) street (at) gmail (dot) com.

Here are two from a trip to Lucca Italy. The pictures were taken in March 2007.