In Memory of

Thomas

Jefferson

Grizzard

Jr.

Condolences

Condolence From: Dixie M. Griffin, Jr
Condolence: Just read of the untimely death of Tom. First met him in graduate school at Va, Tech. A good friend and really nice guy. So sorry.
Friday December 08, 2017
Condolence From: Alan Roberson
Condolence: To Lynn and family, like a lot of other VT graduate students, Tom was a huge positive influence on me during my studies at VT's NoVa Campus. I will always be grateful for his wisdom and encouragement as my advisor. He was great at telling stories and his laugh brightened any story. He will be missed...
Friday July 14, 2017
Condolence From: David Rigby
Condolence: My sincere condolences to Lynn and family. Tom was a remarkable man of character, intellect and respect. Sincerely, David Rigby
Friday July 14, 2017
Condolence From: James Bohland
Condolence: His great laugh and huge heart will be missed dearly.
Wednesday July 12, 2017
Condolence From: Barry Weand
Condolence: I have been putting this off because I could not find the words. Now I realize I will never have adequate words. I have known Tom and his family for 45 years. We were friends in graduate school. We maintained contact even after I moved to Wyoming. In 1978 Tom invited me to join him on a new research project at the OWML. I jumped at the chance and moved east based on a handshake and with no actual written offer. At that time the lab consisted of us and about 6 other employees located in a strip mall in Manassas Park. Over the next 7 years we became partners in a great adventure. We greatly expanded the research program to include other areas around the Commonwealth: the James River, Chesapeake Bay, Hampton Roads, Lake Barcroft, Lake Manassas, and the Rappahannock River. In a few years we outgrew the lab facilities and physically moved the equipment to its present location. At one point the OWML probably employed over 30 people. It became a facility with nationwide recognition. In 1982 Tom and I succeeded in establishing the graduate environmental engineering program in northern Virginia. That program continues today, and has provided talented professionals who are serving in important positions here and throughout the country. I noted at his retirement celebration only a few years ago that Tom was uniquely qualified for his position as Director of the OWML. The work there was really entrepreneurial in nature, requiring all the talents involved in running a small business. Tom met the challenge. He not only had the technical training, but he was a hands-on supervisor who would go to the field to help build monitoring stations. He was a capable and respected speaker at public meetings, which was particularly tricky in the early days when occasional fistfights would break out. He was a good writer, which was important in securing research grants. He was indefatigable and committed, and worked beyond the normal hours, and on weekends. When there was a massive oil spill into Bull Run we both went 48 hours without sleep. Not so long ago at one of our lunches together I told him that I envied his long and focused career. The impact of his work will span generations. It is fair to say that Tom was a brother to me; in fact, he is only a month older than my genetic brother. During our time together at the OWML we were “joined at the hip.” We had individual qualities that complimented each other and worked well as a team. It was one of the landmark times of my life. We shared similar outlooks, on the environment, politics, humor, and life. There were so many experiences that we shared that we could trigger a laughable remembrance with a single word. I will miss that tremendously. I will also miss his easy laugh, his inquisitive nature, his sense of adventure, and his repartee. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Lyn, Jen, and Josh. I know you are very proud of Tom, as you well should be. He exemplified the Virginia Tech motto “Ut Prosim” [to serve]. Men of his caliber do not often present themselves in a lifetime. RIP, my friend.
Wednesday July 12, 2017
Condolence From: Sue Laufer
Condolence: To Tom's Famiy, I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. When Barry told me about the bike accident prior to his passing I knew it was trouble. Head injuries can so easily become fatal for anyone at any age. But at 70 he was far to young to go. My words can only say that faster is better, lingering on and on with such a level of disability is incredibly sad. My both parents died in last 3 years, my mother at 89 lingered for 1.5 months, and my Dad, at 94, died more peacefully. Altho' unable to walk, he was in great nursing home,and still upbeat. He passed away very quickly of pneumonia last April. My sister has had Multiple Sclerosis since her late 20's, was stable for many years, declined slowly at first, more quickly after our mom passed. She was moved from her own apt of 45 yrs in Manhattan, to Massachusetts, where the loss of continuity of care came with severe and continuing loss of her many recent former capabilities. It is heartbreaking to watch and be powerless to change her prognosis. With that said, "Look for the Silver Lining": It was far too soon for Tom to go but going quickly is best. My heart and prayers go to your family.
Monday July 10, 2017
Condolence From: George (Woody) Underwood
Condolence: I am still in shock over Tom's accidental and abrupt passing. Tom has not only been my boss but a dear and caring friend for the last 38 years while working with him at OWML. He always had a good one liner to lighten the atmosphere during trying times. We went through the relocation of the lab and the break through of the "computer age" in the 80's and how it affected our work. We would always speak about the Redskins or Hokies and even more so lately about the Nationals. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by me. I'll always remember that "because we have always done it that way" is not the answer. I extend my sincere condolences to the Lynn and the Grizzard family.
Monday July 10, 2017
Condolence From: Marc and Martha Aveni
Condolence: Lynn and family, We are all so sorry for the loss of Tom! What a great guy! Fly high Tom! Love and prayers from the Aveni family.
Monday July 10, 2017
Condolence From: Toni Trani
Condolence: Dear Lynn Jenny and Josh My wife Maria Teresa and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Tom was a wonderful person and we will miss his big smile and sense of humor. God bless you and the rest of your family in such difficult times. Regards, Toni and Maria Teresa Trani
Sunday July 09, 2017
Condolence From: Ken Harmon
Condolence: I will always remember Tom as a colleague and friend in the great adventure we shared of growing the Virginia Tech presence in Northern Virginia ... it could not have happened without Tom's commitment, persistence and professionalism .. and of course his compelling sense of humor and dedication to the wellbeing of his colleagues. Tom, you will be missed and greatly appreciated.
Saturday July 08, 2017
Condolence From: Elin Warn Betanzo
Condolence: Dr. Grizzard was a great teacher and he has provided encouragement just when I needed it. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Friday July 07, 2017
Condolence From: Mark Wong
Condolence: Dear Lyn and family, it has been both an honor and a privilege to have known and worked with Tom for almost 10 years through the PUB External Audit Panel (Singapore). He will always be an inspiration and a mentor to me. I know I speak for all my other colleagues who have worked with Tom when I say that our lives will now be poorer in his absence. Mark (from Singapore)
Thursday July 06, 2017
Condolence From: John Foote
Condolence: Lyn -- You know that Tom was an important figure in my life, as in so many. I cannot take a bike ride without remembering him. He was one of my first mentors on the bike, taught me maintenance, and we rode the Parkway a dozen times. I loved his booming laugh, and his constant reminders to Mike and me that we were personally responsible for ruining the Occoquan. Rose and I think of you every day, and we will remain in your life for as long as you need us. Much, much love to you, Josh, and Jenny. John
Wednesday July 05, 2017
Condolence From: Evelyn Mahieu
Condolence: Lynn and family, Dr. Grizzard was a great mentor of professionals and students as well. Every time he did a presentation, I learned something new about the Occoquan. My family and I send our prayers and condolences to you. Sincerely, Evelyn Mahieu
Wednesday July 05, 2017
Condolence From: Karen Snitzer
Condolence: As a former grad student of Dr. Grizzard's I can say that he inspired the best in us and he was constantly in demand for his advice and knowledge. His contributions to the environment cannot be overestimated. His infectious laugh filled the room and made us all smile. He will be sorely missed. In this heartbreaking and difficult time, I extend my sincere condolences to the Grizzard family.
Monday July 03, 2017
Condolence From: Rick Evans, Founder, Occoquan Boat Club
Condolence: I met Tom over 30 years ago when he came down to the Sandy Run Rowing Facility to watch John Ringle carve a walking trail along the reservoir. There are not enough words to express the greatness of our loss. Tom dedicated himself to the goals of our Occoquan Watershed Coalition. He tirelessly offered his expertise and studies of the water quality at the reservoir which ultimately shot down attempts to build another bridge across our reservoir, and spearheaded legislation that changed the regulations regarding the types of gasoline motors used on the Occoquan. He was not only my friend but a fierce defender of our precious Occoquan. On behalf of the Occoquan Boat Club I offer my sincerest condolences to Tom's family.
Thursday June 29, 2017
Condolence From: Karen Carter Decker
Condolence: I offer my sincerest sympathy to Tom’s family in this unimaginable loss. My work at the Fairfax County Water Authority in the 1970s coordinated with the OWML and gave me the great privilege of meeting Tom. He inspired and encouraged me, and helped pave my way to go back to Virginia Tech to graduate school where he served on my graduate committee. So much good in my life flowed from that opportunity, and I have always been grateful to that brilliant, funny, handsome and charming man. I am so sad that he’s gone.
Thursday June 29, 2017
Condolence From: Theodore Thompson
Condolence: I first met Tom about 3 years ago at Starbucks. I walked in decked out head to toe in my UVA attire and Tom who was sporting his Va Tech attire immediately lit into me. This chance meeting was the beginning of a great friendship. I looked forward to our almost daily meetings at Starbucks. I'm really missing my friend. Coffee at Starbucks will never be the same. Rest In Peace my friend.
Thursday June 29, 2017
Condolence From: Chuck Boepple
Condolence: Like so many others, the UOSA family is devastated by the news of Tom's passing. For four decades, Tom has been an integral part of all the key water quality research, planning and decisions that have led to UOSA's success at protecting the region's water supply. No one could duplicate the level of respect that scientists, engineers, regional leaders and regulators had for Tom's oral and written words on how best to address the region's water issues. Tom commanded respect but he also had the unique capability of being able to interject his wit and good humor into every situation to the delight of all. It goes without saying that Tom will be sorely missed. On behalf of the UOSA Board and staff we offer our heartfelt condolences.
Wednesday June 28, 2017
Condolence From: Robert & Sheryl Bass
Condolence: Lynn and Family...We are all so shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Tom. He has been a friend for many years, and he will always be remembered for his welcoming smile and the twinkle in his eyes as he shared stories of his work for PWC and our City of Manassas. Ultimately, his best adventures centered around family and the grandchildren... how he loved life! Tom will be sorely missed. Much love, Robert & Sheryl Bass, and Family Drs. Bass and Rose, and Staff
Wednesday June 28, 2017
Condolence From: David & Laura Sample
Condolence: Lynnn & Family, Laura and I are deeply affected by this sudden and unexpected loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I will always remember Tom's exuberance, sense of humor, and his work at the OWML/Virginia Tech; he certainly left a rich legacy. Please let me know if there is anything you need.
Wednesday June 28, 2017
Condolence From: Maury & Vera Gerson
Condolence: Dear Lynn: Vera and I were saddened to learn about Tom's untimely passing. I remember his significant contributions to the Manassas and Prince William communities and enjoying talking about our Hokie connections when we met. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Maury & Vera Gerson
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Roger & Cyndy Snyder
Condolence: Lynn & Family......There are simply no words to adequately express our shock and sorrow so we lift up your family in prayer.
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Laura Grape
Condolence: From Tom's friends and colleagues at the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District, our sincere and heartfelt condolences. We will grieve along with so many others, all of us, better people for having known Tom. We will carry his torch forward, caring for our natural resources and the reservoir he held so dear. We will miss that bigger than life smile that he shared so generously. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Peace.
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Andy Simko
Condolence: Dr. Grizzard took me on as a graduate student in 2013. I believe I was the last one to graduate before his retirement. Thanks to him I am now in a career I love and helping to protect our water and environment. Of course Dr. Grizzard was an expert in the field of water quality. But what I remember most were the personal conversations about life, family, health, and politics. He helped me during a time I needed it the most. He has had a profound influence on my life and he will be greatly missed.
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Charles M. Murray
Condolence: All of us at Fairfax Water are devastated by this tragic loss of our good friend and colleague. It is impossible to adequately describe the impact of Tom's work to protect our drinking water quality over the last four decades with the OWML and the lasting legacy he left with his many students that have taken many roles in this region in efforts to protect our water supplies. Tom was a wonderful friend to me and many, a tireless advocate for our environment, and a mentor for countless students. We will miss him in so many ways and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family. Rest in Peace good friend....
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Dan Schwartz
Condolence: Dr. Grizzard was my graduate advisor when I was a student at the Occoquan Lab. I finished my thesis just before he officially "retired" in 2014. I put those quotes in there for a reason since he seemed to stay just as busy post-retirement. I know few people who have given so much thought and effort to understanding and protecting our urban environment. For me personally, he was the one who encouraged me to apply for graduate school, guided me into the Environmental Science and Engineering program, taught many of my classes, and pushed me over the finish line when it came to finishing my thesis. I will miss him greatly as a friend and mentor. All those involved in urban water quality have lost a guiding light. My sincere condolences to all of Dr. Grizzard's family and friends.
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Wayne Clough
Condolence: Lynn, you may remember me from times past when I was chair of the Via Department. I want you to know how much I admired Tom. There were some difficult times when I became Chair, but I could always, always depend on Tom. He was a bear of man with a sharp intellect, sense of humor and good heart. He was like "our man in Havana," living far from campus but carrying our flag high and standing for all the right things. Visiting Tom and seeing his pride in what he had accomplished was heartwarming. About four years ago when I was Secretary of the Smithsonian, I was asked to speak at the Northern Virginia Gradation Ceremony. As I was robing and speaking with various dignitaries, I heard a familiar voice behind me say "Long time no see." It was Tom. While I enjoyed participating in the ceremony, the best thing that day was seeing Tom again. Tom truly was one of the good guys. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Tuesday June 27, 2017
Condolence From: Ken & Kathi Barefoot
Condolence: Lynn, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family as you all gather to celebrate Tom's amazing life. Many fond memories. The Hokie family has lost a good one.
Tuesday June 27, 2017