The was written by a dear friend of Tom, Jim Sweeney and sent to me for posting by Keleen Hanway.

Tom Hanway was – in the very best sense – a tried and true good ole boy… a pair of old boots that slipped on easily, brought you comfort and kept you protected.

Upon meeting Tom, you might not immediately realize just how smart he was, how accomplish-ed he was or how successful he was. After all, he did not wear his badges on his chest, though he earned many of them in his life. Instead, despite his large physical presence, his handsome smile and his strong grip, he was typically reserved and sometimes even shy at first glance.

But in time, one would realize that he was smart, clever, inventive, industrious, hard-working and hungry. His business acumen was off the charts. And while all that brought Tom great success, it never, ever defined him. Instead, it was Tom’s infectious smile, his West Virginia charm, his rugged good looks and his genuine kindness to family, friends and strangers that truly reflected who he was.

I first met Tom about 15 years ago. Though he and Keleen were already friends of my brother Denny, I came to know him first and foremost as a businessman.

At the time, Tom was driving Gasco like he drove his GTO - righteously cleaned, properly tuned and pedal to the metal. He was focused and determined, and forever bringing new ideas to the table - new technology, new products, new marketing concepts. He was a machine. And I was just there to watch it all happen.

But it wasn't just Tom; he also surrounded himself with family and friends at all times. Brad, Kenny, Chris and Keleen were always nearby, if not at his side. Tom loved his family. And he loved a good time, bringing laughter to and sharing smiles with everyone around him.

Eventually Tom sold the Gasco business so he could focus on other endeavors, and it was clear he was a man with a plan.

Looking back, it seems to me that Tom lived his life - every day of it that I witnessed - to the absolute fullest, right up to the last moment. And I am fueled and energized by this idea of making the most of what you have for as long as you can without apology for giving it your all.

His presence in the world, his seemingly endless energy and his embracing smile will be missed by all of us, but never forgotten.

God bless you Tom, and thank you for sharing just a small piece of your life and your family with me, my brother Denny and my team at work.

We will see you in another life, brother.
—Jim Sweeney, Cleveland, OH