Thomas John Dion Sr.

Born the youngest of three children to Arthur and Gertrude Dion on April 24, 1942, in Claremont, NH, Tom was a spirited young man known for his toughness, determination and athleticism. He excelled in sports, playing soccer, basketball, and baseball in high school. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army where he served active duty, followed by many more years in the Army National Guard.

Always an adventurer, Tom hitchhiked back to Claremont from Fort Sill Oklahoma after his discharge. Back in civilian life, he worked as a driver for Ideal Laundry – a job that would change the course of his life.

During deliveries to the company’s Dover, NH facility, Tom met Patricia O’Brien, a young woman working a summer job in the office. Always confident, Tom asked her on a date – to which the strident rule follower replied, “I’ll need to ask my parents.” When her parents were not available to approve – the ever-prudent Pat rebelled, just this once, and went on the date without permission. This impulsive decision sparked a love story that lasted a lifetime.

Tom and Pat married in Dover, NH on October 2, 1965, and began their new life in Claremont welcoming a baby girl, Cara, followed by two sons, Tom, Jr. and Mark. Tom adored his wife – and beamed with pride when talking about his children. As their family grew with marriages, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Tom’s love and admiration for them only deepened.

To support his wife and family, Tom became a barber and opened “Tom Dion’s Barbershop”. He ran the barbershop until, as he would say, the Beatles and their long hair ruined his business model. As people grew out their locks – business slowed – and he began selling cars part-time. His charismatic personality and competitive streak made him a natural salesman – and he soon closed the barbershop and started selling cars full-time.

As his reputation as a salesman grew, he was recruited to come to Keene, NH to work at Bailey Ford. Tom worked his way up the ranks, ultimately becoming General Manager of the dealership. He then transitioned to Peerless Insurance where he managed their fleet of cars and later served as Facilities Manager, overseeing buildings and properties nationwide until his retirement.

Tom had a larger-than-life personality, a hearty recognizable laugh, and a big heart. He and Pat loved to entertain, always welcoming guests with open arms, a quick wit, and a touch of humor. Tom had a passion for cooking and was perhaps best known for his legendary meatballs. Referred to in some circles as the "Margarita Man," he expertly crafted cocktails, especially Sombreros, Margaritas, and Manhattans (served without fruit!) and always made sure wine glasses were full. Tom’s hospitality and charm left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

A life-long fan of the Red Sox – he enjoyed going into Fenway for games. He endured years of heartache before celebrating the end of the “Curse” in 2004 and relishing in the team’s championships that followed in 2007, 2013, and 2018. In addition, Tom had a passion for motorsports, particularly NASCAR and spent many weekends cheering on his favorite drivers.

Known to have an after-dinner drink for dessert and dessert for breakfast, Tom truly lived life to the fullest. His stories, laughter, and vibrant personality will be remembered by all who knew him. We find comfort in knowing he is now enjoying time with friends and family members who passed before him.

Tom is survived by his adoring wife, Patricia Dion; sister Marie Zerba; daughter Cara Cunningham and her husband, Joe Cunningham (Katy, TX); son Tom Dion, Jr. and his wife, Sharon Dion (Nashua, NH); son Mark Dion and his wife, Stacey Dion (Washington, DC); grandchildren Kayla Gilbert and her husband, Cam Gilbert; Emily Pearson and her husband, Brett Pearson; Kyle Cunningham and his fiancé, Andrew Kerstens; Elizabeth Dion; Ava Dion; Luke Dion; great-grandchildren Gavin Gilbert; Brooks Gilbert; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Arthur Dion.

A special thanks to Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services, and nurses Bobbie and Ericka whose compassionate care made it possible for him to spend his final days comfortably at home with family.

Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Foley Funeral Home, 49 Court Street, Keene, NH. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Parish of the Holy Spirit (formerly St. Bernard’s), 185 Main Street, Keene, NH.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Home Healthcare Hospice & Community Services, PO Box 564, Keene, NH 03431; or to St. Vincent de Paul, c/o Parish of the Holy Spirit, 173 Main Street, Keene, NH 03431.