Northwest's Tom Foley Dies at 80

Dec. 1, 2014 – Ross McCulligan

Longtime senior softball player Thomas Foley lost his courageous battle with both ALS and cancer on Nov. 11 in Seattle, Wash., with his family by his side.

He had a long career in senior softball playing for various teams in the Pacific Northwest including, WE Ruth Realty, Joeseppi’s, First American Title and Northwest 80’s.

“Every team should have a Tom Foley,” remarked Joseph Stortini, his former manager with Joeseppi’s. “We all knew he played in pain sometimes but he never once complained about it. He had a great positive attitude and always had something kind to say to everyone. We’ll miss him.”

Tom moved to Washington at a young age and studied at Seattle University earning degrees in electrical engineering. He enjoyed a 34-year career as an engineering manager with Boeing in addition to serving in the United States Navy Reserve from 1952-1960.

He believed in civic duty and being involved in one’s community. As such, he was a generous volunteer, donating his time to various community organizations such as Pacific Northwest Masters Swimming, Seattle Triton Aquatics Club, Southwest Community Center Advisory Council and the Puget Sound Keepers Alliance.