Thomas Mckinley Clason

MONSON- Thomas McKinley Clason, 86, a devoted family man passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at home surrounded by family. He was born in Springfield on October 15, 1934 a son of the late Robert M. and Catherine (Allan) Clason. He was educated in Springfield Schools and later at Wilbraham-Monson Academy.

After graduating he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served honorably during the Korean War. His military service became a lifelong dedication to our country and our flag. He participated for many years in the Monson Summer Fest Parade and was a proud member of the American Legion Post # 123 in Ware as well as a member and former Commandant of Detachment #140 Ware, Marine Corps League. Tom retired as a salesman from Bertera in Palmer in 2005.

Tom enjoyed gardening, cooking and spending time at Senior Center playing cards.  He enjoyed traveling, especially to spend time with his family in Neptune Beach, FL and Scotland. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maureen (Tibbetts) Clason in 2000 and by his only grandson, Geoffrey Hanley in 2017. Tom is survived by his six children: Susan Clason of Monson who was his devoted caregiver; Noreen (Dan) McCarthy of Palmer; Bonnie (Chap) Hanley of Niantic, CT; Thomas “Skip” Clason, Jr of Monson; Margaret Yates of Bayville, NJ; William Clason of Monson. He will be remembered fondly by his grandchildren: Kathleen, Marissa, Meghan, Colleen, Alli, Emily and great grandchildren: Anna, Cayden, Olivia, Jonathan and Calvin. He also leaves many extended family members including his nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 1, 2021 at St. Patrick's Church in Monson.  Burial with military honors will follow at Bethany Cemetery also in Monson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Tom’s name may be made to the Marine Corps League Detachment #140, Scholarship Fund, 45 Maple St, Ware, MA 01082 or to The Monson Senior Center, 106 Main St., Monson, MA 01057.