Obituary For Thomas K. “Tom” Thorp
Of Pittsburgh, PA, originally from Hackettstown, NJ, died on July 8, 2025, at the age of 65.
Tom lived for his family and community. He will be missed for his unique blend of thoughtfulness, empathy, energy, practicality, and humor.
He grew up in Hackettstown, where he eventually returned and joined the private law practice begun by his father, Albert Thorp, who was also born and raised in Hackettstown. Tom ran the general law practice for 25 years – work which also included service as the Municipal Attorney for the Town of Hackettstown. He was most proud of providing counsel to the Town for projects like the creation of Riverfront Park on the Musconetcong, where he later enjoyed taking walks with his family and adored dogs (Molly and Kona).
His career of serving the public concluded with the position of Deputy Surrogate for the Warren County Surrogate’s office, which he held from 2012-2024.
He also valued and loved his faith community at Trinity United Methodist Church, where he served on a number of ministry teams, including the Board of Trustees, Church School Ministry, and the Appalachian Service Project.
Tom was a proud graduate of the College of Wooster in Ohio (class of ‘81), where he met his beloved wife, Ginny, and studied geology – in that order. He completed his legal studies and earned his Juris Doctorate from Ohio Northern University (class of ‘84).
He was a lifelong baseball fan devoted to the New York Yankees. Tom was a voracious reader who enjoyed biographies, history, and any non-fiction that demonstrated the resilience of the human spirit throughout the world. In this vicarious way, he was able to fulfill his dream of more extensive travel. He particularly enjoyed trips to National Parks and historic sites throughout the years.
Tom’s favorite days often included planning some sort of outing or a sports activity (such as a hike, golfing, or coaching softball). Alternatively, he enjoyed days completing a household project, followed by a good book or movie and family dinner, preferably including ice cream for dessert. Ever the comedian, his days would often end with watching a late night comedy show.
Tom died at home surrounded by family following 2.5 courageous years with esophageal cancer.
Tom is survived by his wife, Ginny (Virginia L. Shew) Thorp, his soulmate and best friend with whom he spent 43 wonderful years of marriage. He is also survived by his daughter Katie Thorp, his daughter Taylor Thorp, her husband Ryan Kish, and his granddaughter, Nyla Thorp Kish. Welcoming Nyla into the family and being a doting grandfather was a source of constant joy for Tom.
Tom also leaves behind much loved relatives that include his mother, Suzanne Thorp of New Jersey, his sister Laura Thorp Katz of Boston and her husband Joel, his brother Andrew Thorp of St. Louis and his wife Lisa, along with six nieces and nephews (Daniel Katz, Julianna Katz, Jeremy Katz, Adam Thorp, Brian Thorp, and Grace Thorp).
A gathering remembering and celebrating Tom’s life will be held in Hackettstown, the place of his roots, at a future date to be determined. Arrangements handled by the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Trinity United Methodist Church in Hackettstown.
7 Condolences for Thorp, Thomas K.
Condolences(7)
Paul & Robin Wallace says
July 12, 2025 at 10:34 pmDear Virginia, and Entire Thorp Family
My Wife Robin and I were stunned to hear of Tom’s Passing, now after reading the Pittsburgh Obituary, we realize, when Robin & I last talked (just before you all moved) Tom was already sick, and in His typical way, jovial, kind & we were left with warm memories, never having a clue of our beloved Brother in Christ condition.
Tom, has been truly missed, and our heartache pales in comparison to what you all are going through.
It is true that those of us In Christ truly go to HIS presence immediately, and for that there is profound Assurance, Joy, but yet the Sting of earthly separation is still real and though temporary, still is ours to bare. We pray our FATHER in Heaven will for Christ Jesus our LORD’S sake comfort you all as only HE can.
GOD Bless you all
Reverend Paul & Robin Wallace
Janet Lake says
July 13, 2025 at 5:42 pmTom was a wonderful man. Without his help, i would have never been able to make my dream of purchasing the land for the Riverfront Park in Hackettstown a reality. The Community Development Committee relied heavily on his help. Tom gave more than he was ever paid for. May God now reward him greatly.
My deepest sympathy to Ginny and his children.
Pete says
July 14, 2025 at 11:47 amWonderful man of dedication and love.
If we could all be like him.
Debra Roe Wehrenberg says
July 14, 2025 at 1:53 pmTo the Thorp Family.,
My sincerest sympathy and condolences. I have so many fond memories of growing up and spending so much time with your family. I remember Toms sense of humor and his ever present smile..May God comfort you during this very difficult time…keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Debra ( Roe ) Wehrenberg
Laura Gilsenan says
July 14, 2025 at 2:30 pmI worked with Tom for many, many years, in his role as Deputy Surrogate for Warren County. Without doubt, he was one of the very best human beings I have ever known. I will miss him terribly.
My most sincere condolences to his family.
Timothy Wallace says
July 14, 2025 at 7:25 pmTo the Thorp Family – Tom was a man of great compassion and he and Kevin O’Neill were perfect in the role of County Surrogate. Their assistance to our family as we went through the minutia involved in settling our parents estate will never be forgotten. I was very saddened to hear of his passing, much too young by today’s standards.
Tim and Theresa Wallace – AVL NC
john felix klimas says
July 30, 2025 at 10:17 pmHe was one of the good guys.
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