Thomas J. Shaheen

Thomas Joseph Shaheen, 82, died peacefully at his home on May 12, 2015. Tom was born in Tupper Lake on January 6, 1933, the son of Joseph and Anecy (Frank) Shaheen. He attended Tupper Lake High School. He co-owned Shaheen's IGA with his brothers where he worked for many decades until his retirement at age 65. On September 5, 1960, he married the love of his life, Rose Marie Becker. They were happily wed for 53 years until her death in 2013. To many family and friends, Tom is still referred to by his longtime nickname of "Cigar". He enjoyed bowling for many years and loved playing cards and cribbage. Our father loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family. He was a hardworking and loving man with a quick wit and a great sense of humor. He instilled in all of his children a strong work ethic.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Anecy Shaheen, by three siblings, Shaheen, George, and Joseph Shaheen, and by his wife Rose. He is survived by one brother, Ayupe and his wife Carolyn, and his beloved sister Mateele Kall and her husband Sheldon. Also surviving are his eight children, Anecy Shaheen, Margaret Gaff and her husband Michael, Tina LaVassaur and her husband Mark, Eric Shaheen and his wife Briggette, Carol Shaheen, Michael Shaheen and his fianceIe Katie Britt, Rose Peterson and her husband Cecil, and Dawn Wright and her husband Scott. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 17th, at the Stuart-Fortune-Keough funeral home. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 18th, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church. Memorial contributions can be made to High Peaks Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.stuartfortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.