In Memoriam: Longtime AF&PA Member, Thomas J. Grant Sr. (1931 – 2023)
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A staple to the to the pulp and paper has left us. Tom Grant passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving children on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at the age of 91. Tom dedicated over 37 years to the American and Forest Products Association (AF&PA) and retired as the Director of the Recovery Boiler Program. Under his leadership, the program helped substantially improve the safety, integrity, and reliability of the industry’s recovery boiler operations.
Tom joined the American Paper Institute (API) on April 30, 1979, and continued working in New York after API and National Forest Products Association merged in 1993 to form AF&PA. During his tenure, Tom received multiple promotions, including one in 1986 where the majority of his time shifted to the Recovery Boiler Program. The program was established in 1974 to improve the safety, integrity, and reliability of the recovery boiler operations by developing programs and assisting companies. Over the years, Tom’s involvement in the Recovery Boiler Program increased, and he became the director.
In addition to having a career in paper and wood products, Tom was a Korean War veteran, former United States Marine, and he had an impressive career in American sports. He was a Major League Baseball player for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Giants (before they moved to San Francisco). Tom officiated over 3,000 football games and was recognized as a distinguished referee. As a football referee for the New York Giants, he was a first official asked by any NFL team to travel to a Super Bowl for practice games, and he supported the team in achieving a Super Bowl championship.
Tom’s humor and intelligence will be missed and not forgotten by anyone who knew him. Tom was a tireless professional who made significant contributions to the AF&PA Recovery Boiler Program and industry.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to Cardinal Hayes H.S. Bronx, NY. Click here to view obituary.
