Thomas Michael Walsh

Thomas (Tom) Michael Walsh died at home on Sunday, October 15, 2023 after a short battle with cancer. Born October 7, 1943, he was the son of the late William and Teresa Walsh of Dorchester, Massachusetts. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Carol Walsh; three children, Sean of Falls Church, VA; Kevin (Amanda Thaxton) of Raleigh, NC; and Erin (Casey) Kugler of Covington, LA. Sean and Rebecca McHale are parents of Tom’s two dear grandchildren, Liam and Keira Walsh. Carol and Tom have lived in Montgomery County, Maryland since 1984.

He is survived by his brother, Bill (Claire) Walsh and sisters, Teresa Walsh (Larry Headland) and Diane (Jack McDonald) Walsh, all residing in the greater Boston area. He was preceded in death by brothers Robert and John Walsh. When recently asked by his doctors what was most important in his life, he replied “family.” He will be deeply missed by his large Boston Irish family and Carol’s smaller Michigan family of in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

After graduating from Boston Technical High School, he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University. He then earned an advanced degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. During his military career, he also studied at the selective Industrial College of the Armed Forces at Fort McNair.

He retired as a USAF Colonel in 1996 after a 30-year career of service to his country. Stationed at the Pentagon, his last responsibilities were management of the allocation and oversight of Federal Air National Guard construction dollars to the states. He received multiple medals and commendations. Tom then worked for a global engineering consulting company on embassy-related projects in the Middle East and Europe and the consolidation of DISA headquarters at Ft. Meade. He was highly regarded by his work colleagues, retaining friendships and ties after these many years.

With a keen intellect, Tom had many interests throughout his life. He was an instrument-rated private pilot. He had an intense interest in the advancement of computers, making sure he had the latest technology. He was a past member of the local amateur radio club. He was an avid reader, primarily of nonfiction. He loved cats with Murphy and Muffin being the current ruling family members.

A visitation will be held at DeVol Funeral Home. 10 Deer Park Dr, Gaithersburg on Wednesday October 25 from 2:00-4:00. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 26 at 11:00 at DeVol Funeral Home; refreshments will then be served for guests at The Cottage of CaringMatters, 518 South Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg MD.

Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CaringMatters at www.caringmatters.org or Fisher House Foundation at https://fisherhouse.org/.