Horace 'Tom' H. Thoman

Dr. Horace H. Thoman, known as "Tom," to his family and friends, died at age 82, on June 2, 2009, of congestive heart failure at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital.

Dr. Thoman was born on March 1, 1927 to Ralph and Marie Thoman. His father came from a long line of Swiss watchmakers and owned a watch and jewelry store in Woodbury, N.J., where he was raised. Dr. Thoman attended Woodbury High School, graduating in 1944, after which he served in the United States Navy during World War II. Following his service, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Chemistry in 1959 and from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School in 1953. He practiced as a dentist in Woodbury, N.J. for over 50 years and was a pioneer in cosmetic dental procedures. Dr. Thoman was a volunteer for the former Woodbury Psychiatric Clinic, where he served on the Board of Directors for over 35 years.

His family recalls his love of music, especially Dixieland and jazz, playing both the violin and trombone. He was a life-long boater, photographer, especially of shore birds, and collected old watches and dental memorabilia, spending his retirement years in Stone Harbor and
then Cape May Courthouse, N.J. Throughout his life, Dr. Thoman, had an avid interest in current events, a deep sense of compassion for others and maintained a strong intellectual curiosity.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, the former Shirley Johnson, his four children, Lauren, Leslie, Ellen, and Todd, their spouses and 11 grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his wife, family, and friends and patients.
Visitation 10am Saturday until the service at 11am at the DAVIS & WAGNER FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES 171 Delaware St. Woodbury, NJ.

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