Thomas Elias Shahaden

Thomas (Tom) Elias Shahaden husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at the age of 92.

Tom was born in Niles, Ohio on November 23, 1933, to Michael and Mary (Reese) Shahaden. Throughout his life, he was known for his hard work, dedication, humility, sense of humor, and quiet stoicism. He took great pride in providing and caring for his family.

Tom enlisted in the United States Marine Corp at the age of 17 in 1951 and proudly served until 1954 when he was honorably discharged. He completed basic training at Camp Lejeune and was later stationed in Panama during the Korean War.

In the late 1950’s, Tom moved to Torrance, California to live near his family. Tom and Edith (Latham) met in 1968 in the sunny, beachside town of Naples in Southern California. They married on January 11, 1969, in Long Beach, California. Tom and Edith lovingly and enthusiastically spent the next 57 years together. Camping was one of their favorite summertime activities. They enjoyed visiting Prairie Creek and Grizzly Creek State Parks, and especially Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Northern California. Their train journeys to Ohio were among the highlights of their life together.

Tom was a passionate sports fan who especially liked cheering for the Rams, Dodgers, and the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. Both before and after his retirement, he devoted his time to coaching baseball teams in the Heartwell Colt League in Lakewood, California.

Tom had a sharp mind, remarkable memory, and a strong determination to remain physically active into his 90s. Above all, Tom will be remembered for his steadfast nature, devotion to his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.

Tom is survived by his wife, Edith; his children, Dina Smith, Matthew Shahaden (Renee), Rebecca Shahaden-Smith (Brooks), Tom Shahaden (Lisa); his grandchildren, Charlee (Jay), Matti, Mitchell, Brenna, Ian (Jodicy), Emma Mae, Addison, and great-grandchildren Jaylee, Logan, Kailynn, and Cohen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael E. and Mary C. (Reese) Shahaden, his sister, Carol Lepsesty, and his grandson Bryan Smith.

Tom leaves behind a lifetime of memories. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A service celebrating Tom's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on August 28, 2026, at Los Osos Valley Mortuary & Memorial Park with a celebration of life shortly after.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org in Tom's memory.