William “Tom” Harden Sr.
December 29, 1948 – July 18, 2018

William Thomas “Tom” Harden, Sr. of Aberdeen, passed away July 18, 2018. He was born December 29, 1948, the son of Georgia Plested and William “Whitey” Harden in Raymond, Washington. He moved to Aberdeen while in grade school where he met the love of his life, Susie Howard. Following graduation from Aberdeen High School in 1967 he married Susie and made their home in Aberdeen.

While in his teens, Tom began his career in the forest products industry at Posey’s Manufacturing where he worked until its’ closure in 2000. He then worked for NW Specialty Products and later finished his career managing the Cottonwood Ranch in Hoquiam from which he retired in 2016.

Always quick-witted with a smile and laugh, Tom brought smiles to all he touched. Many will remember Tom from his decades of service at Pioneer Park where he coached baseball and later worked in the concession stands. He could later be found as a fan in the stands of local high school sporting events. Tom never missed a sporting or special event of his children or grandchildren. He especially enjoyed his time with family and friends camping, fishing and playing games around the fire at Wynoochee Wildwood.

Family was Tom’s first priority. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years Susie, his daughter Shelli (Mark) Hopsecger and son Tommy (Carla) Harden; three cherished grandchildren Felicia Harden, Alex Hopsecger and Whitney Harden; sisters Kathy (Dan) Descher of Aberdeen and Tammie (Randy) Gallanti of Federal Way; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins along with dozens of close friends who were always part of the family. He was an uncle to many, either by blood or by heart. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held Saturday, July 28 at 1:00 p.m. at the Aberdeen Elks on Boone Street.

In lieu of flowers, family encourages memorials be made to the Grays Harbor College Foundation to help others achieve their educational dreams.