Thomas Grand-Lienard Waterman passed away peacefully at his son’s home on Saturday, March 22nd. He was 89 years old.

Tom was the only child of Thomas and Dorothy Waterman, born and raised on the east coast. He married the love of his life, Emilie Trentin in 1960 (who preceeded him in death by 15 years) and is survived by their three children, Nancy Dahlberg (Steve), Eric Waterman (Michaela) and Suzanne Weeks (Jeff), seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In 1969 Tom and Emilie relocated their young family from New York to Seattle, Washington where he lived for the remainder of his life. Tom worked as a truck mechanic for 30 years but his true passion lay in his extraordinary athletic ability. He started running (and racing) in his early 40’s where he excelled in 10Ks and marathons, then switched to bicycling in his 50's and 60’s where he also excelled in the STP (Seattle to Portland) and RAMROD (Ride Around Mt. Rainier in One Day).  He rode well into his 70’s, along with many family members whom he inspired.

When his children were growing up, he became very active in the hiking community and the family of five went on many hiking adventures exploring the Cascade Mountains. During the summers, he coached their entire neighborhood in running track, inspiring everyone who knew him to stay active and fit.  He lived by the words he spoke: “Actions speak louder than words,” and: “SISU” (inner strength, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity) which became a family motto.

Tom was profoundly devoted to his family and the wife he adored for 50 years on earth (and every year since she passed). He loved playing chess with his youngest daughter and sharing cycling stories with the other two. He was a true inspiration.

A Funeral Mass will be held in his honor at St. Mark Catholic Church in Shoreline on Thursday, April 3rd at 11:00am.