I first met Tom back in the late 1980s when I was at the beginning of my career as an engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers.   Both Tom and I were involved in corrosion control at that time, and Tom was literally one of the earliest supporters of the research projects I was working on....  even though I was with the Army and he was with the Navy.  He was always happy to provide his technical expertise and publically voice his support for the work.  Occasionally he was able to provide funding.  As a young engineer, it was very meaningful to me that someone of Tom's professional stature and expertise would take an interest in my work and contribute so much to its success.    I have never forgotten that.     

I would like to share the following memory from Gene Arter with Tom's family. 

Tom Tehada was a rare breed of engineering excellence and professional demeanor I have had the privilege, and honor, to have project, and professional consultation with.  Tom's rare and warm acceptance with all he came in contact with, was extraordinary, and very rare, in today’s hurried world.  I am only a technician, but Tom made my interaction directly with him very comfortable and his manner of educating, explanations and extreme knowledge of corrosion and the material sciences world, was without doubt, the “go to” person.  

Tom was always extremely busy, and his skill set, as a dedicated engineer was in heavy demand. However, he always made the time, to discuss and converse, about our shared passion within the corrosion prevention profession and never once talked “down”,  even though he had superior knowledge and skills that made me humble in his presence.  

Tom made me feel more like a valued friend than a co-worker. Even though our relationship was mainly centered around a work environment, he always exhibited the Aloha spirit, and as a fellow Hawaiian citizen, I will sorely miss his humor, dedication to his work, and more importantly, his friendship.  I know in my heart, there is a special place in heaven for Tom, and as such, I'm certain he is already helping the angels solve many engineering challenges, and making dear friends along the way. I hope, that one day, I again have the honor and privilege to say “Aloha Tom” and share that always warm handshake and extraordinary smile! Tom was “Pono” and lived his life accordingly.

Until then:  Mahalo Nui Loa my friend

Gene Arter


Tom was a great friend and mentor to all of us both personally and professionally.  He was one of the Co founders of the DoD Infrastructure  Corrosion  Prevention and Control  program many years ago (2003). I worked with Tom starting around 1984 we had many great adventures and TDY's together.  While working with Tom on a project or the DoD corrosion program, we could always say "Tom a Job well done". I will never forget Tom and I know he is in a better place and my prayers are with him and the family. On behalf of the ERDC CERL  Corrosion Team in champaign, IL  we wish to extend our sincere condolences to Tom's family.

Sincerely
Vincent F. Hock  


I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Tom for a brief time. He loved his work and was an expert in his field. All who knew him will miss his compassion and professionalism.

I have known and worked with Tom for a number of years and am proud to call him a friend.  His pervasive humor and quiet professionalism is going to be missed.

I had the pleasure of working with Tom from 1998-2008. I was fortunate enough to see with him in Norfolk a few months ago. I will miss him and his wisdom on work and on life, especially bout family and the kids. He was a friend and great guy.

I was privileged to work with Tom for a number of years in his Navy Career.  He was our Cathodic Protection expert and one of our experts at the national DC level for Corrosion Prevention.  I had the privilege of working with a number of our national experts (and perhaps even "worldwide" experts) and Tom was always a joy to work with.  I can still see his big smile and the pride in his voice whenever he talked about his Family back in HI.  Our prayers go out to his wife and son.

VR
Jerry Dummer

I met Tom as a young LT while stationed in Okinawa about 25 years ago. I would see him in Guam, Diego Garcia, and Japan and he was always the most friendly and helpful person.  I will miss him and want his family to know what a difference he made to so many people.

I met Tom way back in 1984 and have enjoyed his friendship for a long time. He loved his work very much and was dedicated to corrosion prevention and control. He brought packages of Hawaian candy to the meetings. We will miss him a lot. 

Ashok Kumar, Champaign, IL

Tom was a colleague and friend.  He was always kind, thoughtful and helpful.  He kept his word when he gave it.  I will miss him

I will miss Tom and loved him very much! His work was important but not as important as his friends and family. He always found a way to say a nice word or do a kind act. He was a great man. From him, I learned a lot about life and our shared profession. I am thankful for the time we had working for the Navy, traveling, shopping for the newest electronics in Singapore, or just having a beer together. Sincerest Condolences.

OBITUARIO

Thomas Joseph Tehada

17 mayo, 1956 – 21 enero, 2018

Borthwick Mortuary

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