Thomas R. Donahue, a father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 94. He spent his final days surrounded by his family. Tom was born in Altoona and attended St. Joseph’s High School in Mount Baltimore, Wake. He later graduated from Forest College, where he excelled in football and was named an All-American player. Tom went on to play professionally for the Chicago Cardinals and the Philadelphia Eagles. He was drafted into the U.S. Army during his professional football career and served with honor as a member of the military police.
In addition to his football career, Tom commenced a 70-year-long career as a real estate appraiser, beginning with the Commonwealth Appraisers. He raised three children, and his family was the joy of his life. Tom was always there for his children, helping them with everything from job interviews to buying a house. He loved attending their sporting events and was always ready to provide support through life’s ups and downs. Tom adored being a grandfather and relished the time spent with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and children, imparting lifelong memories and an outstanding example.
Tom’s personality remained unchanged until just a few weeks before he passed away. He was a kind, witty, competitive, and stubborn man who loved to have fun with everyone. He was active in his community until his eighties, coaching many youth teams, including the Chambersburg Cardinals, and holding leadership positions in Lions Clubs, Kiwanis clubs, and several other organizations. He was an avid football fan who bled black and gold through his devotion to the sport.
Tom’s loved ones include his daughters, Trish Hauser and Carol Donoghue, and his son, Lieutenant Colonel Chris Donahue. He also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Devon Donahue, and son-in-law, Michael Hauser. Tom’s grandchildren include Ty (Christy) Huesson, Gareth Hueson, Morgan (Noah) Lundy, Logan (Amanda) Hauser, Polina Donoghue, Alana Donoghue, Amir Donoghue, Zachary Donoghue, Hayley Donoghue, and Joseph Donahue. Additionally, Tom was the cherished great-grandfather of Brysen and Aubrey Hesson. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Donahue, and his sister, Margaret Runhofer.
Tom’s family would like to acknowledge the dedicated staff of the Homewood Retirement Community in Hanover, Pennsylvania, for their outstanding care and support during his final days. To honor Tom’s memory, the family suggests making donations to the Homewood Foundation Charitable Fund at 16107 Elliott Parkway, Williamsport, MD 21795.
Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 am until the Funeral Mass at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, which will be officiated by Father Alan Wolfe at 11:00 am on Monday, May 15, 2023. Tom will be laid to rest at Altoona’s Calvary Cemetery on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 10:00 am. The Kelso Cornelius Funeral Home of Chambersburg has made the arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.kelsocorneliusfh.com.