Thomas Anthony Hackman

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas Anthony Hackman, a beloved husband, father, teacher, and devout Catholic. Born on March 22, 1938, in Cincinnati, OH, Thomas peacefully departed from this world on April 21, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

Tom began his faith journey in the 8th grade as a novitiate at the Sacred Heart Missionary in Anderson Township. After high school, Tom continued seminary studies in Rome, and even received tonsure from Pope John II before deciding the priesthood was not for him. Upon his return to Cincinnati in 1962, Tom began teaching gradeschool at St Elizabeth Ann Seton in Milford, Ohio, where he met his wife, Karen (nee Smith). Tom continued in a lifelong devotion to his faith. He attended church regularly and served in various capacities througout his life. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Tom held a Master's of Education from Xavier University, which shaped his passion for education and lifelong learning. He dedicated 42 years of his life to educating young minds, 29 of them at Cook Elementary School in Goshen, mainly teaching science to 4th graders. He was a favorite teacher, known for sparking interest in learning, gently correcting students and sharing his sense of humour with them. Tom shared these gifts until his well-deserved retirement in 2005.

Tom was a dedicated family man and is survived by his wife of 60 years, Karen Hackman, his children Bridgette (Troy Uahinui) Hackman, Jennifer (Steve Van Kuiken) Hackman, Sara Hackman, Erin Claire Hackman, and Patrick Hackman, his grandchildren Isa Van Kuiken, Thomas Ventura and Matthew Ventura, his sister Janet (John) Amicon, sister-in-law Laurie (Terry) Cox, grandchildren by marriage Hanna (Mike Zazon) Van Kuiken, Aaron (Ashley) Van Kuiken, Derek Uahinui and Zachary Uahinui, and great-grandchildren through marriage Reid, Marlo and Scout.

Tom was loved by many for his quick wit, generous spirit and constant smile. He made friends everywhere he went. Tom's zest for life included hobbies such as woodcarving, playing the accordion, and outdoor activities like fishing, chopping wood, and skiing. He was an active member of the Izaak Walton League. His diverse interests extended to recreational activities like roller skating, water skiing, and snow skiing, displaying his adventurous spirit. He also enjoyed playing games like Canasta and was an esteemed member of a Canasta Card club. Thomas found joy in intellectual pursuits, proving his versatility by playing Scrabble in Latin.

In honor of his memory and legacy, funeral services will be held at St. Louis Church in Owensville. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 AM until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial service beginning at 11:30 AM. The burial will immediately follow at St. Louis Church Cemetery. A lunch reception will be held at St. Philomena Church once services have concluded.

We mourn the loss of a good and kind man, and we find solace in knowing that Thomas Anthony Hackman's spirit will live on through the memories he created and the lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.