It is with great sadness that FOFAH shares the news of the recent passing of longtime friend, Director and former Board President, Tom Wardell.
If you ever visited Hilltop Farm, you would have experienced Tom’s vision and work. He was a quiet leader and a gifted craftsman. In a crowd, he let others take the limelight.
During his leadership on the Board, Tom focused on the details of the organization, and the oversaw the strategic planning for the growing non-profit organization.
As a student of history, he directed the continuation of Hendee Day and recognition of Indian Motorcycles. His greatest gift to us all was his quiet ways and masterful attention to details. His meticulous rebuilding of the windows of the Big White Dairy Barn and the collaboration in rehabbing the houses are just a few examples of his extraordinary legacy at Hilltop Farm.
Tom was an original Hilltop Farm volunteer, doing whatever needed to be done to reclaim the property. He became Director during FOFAH’s early years and became the Board President in 2010. He retired from the Board in 2014 to continue his service as an Advisor and a Member of the Facilities and Renovation Committee. He was an active volunteer and continued to be a contributor until a few days before his passing. He was truly a Renaissance Man.
A tree will be planted later this summer in his memory in the Memorial Grove at Hilltop Farm.