In Memoriam: Tom Stack
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Stack. Tom was an industry pioneer in his own right and one of the original four owners of VDA (following the purchase from John Van Deusen in 2010).
Tom started his elevator career at Central Elevator 1978, where he quickly became their most skilled and trusted adjuster. His expertise and troubleshooting skills made him an industry leader and a go-to for support, even from his competitors. John Van Deusen took note of Tom’s special traits and asked him to join the VDA team in 1989. Tom accepted John’s offer and didn’t stop there. He was identified early on as one of the next owners of VDA. Tom was instrumental in the growth of VDA in the existing installation marketplace. Having served on the NYC Elevator Code Advisory Committee, he helped to shape the elevator landscape, advising on additions and revisions to the NYC Elevator Code. At the time of his passing, Tom was the longest-tenured VDA employee, and he will be greatly missed.
Mike Smith, former VDA partner and CEO, said, “A truly unique man, who I was blessed to call a friend for more than 30 years. His humor made you smile, and his brilliance made you think. He was and is VDA royalty, as he set the standard, never settling for average. I was proud to be his partner as he made me a better man, and I know he did the same for many others!”
“As one of the very first consultants hired by John Van Deusen and his partners in the 1980s, Tom Stack became a true legend in the elevator industry, respected as a true expert, with quality and integrity as two of his trademarks. When there was a difficult problem, everyone relied on Tom, who always found a solution while making everyone around him better. He was not only a terrific partner and a vital part of building VDA’s reputation of quality and excellence, but he was a friend to all of us, a truly amazing human being. Tom, you will be sorely missed; thanks for all you did for all of us,” said Rob Cuzzi, former VDA partner, president and CEO.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Deborah (nee McCann); loving daughter, Kimberly Stack & her husband, Steven; sister and brothers, Kathleen Viaud (Hughes), John Stack, Jr. (Carol), and Robert Stack (Linda); Buddy, his furever friend; his “grand” animals, Daisy and Gracie, Ophelia and Kitty; his nieces and nephews and countless friends.
Our prayers are with his family and friends during this time of great loss. He will forever be remembered as the “Brilliance in Denim,” the true “Most Interesting Man in the World,” and he will forever be a part of VDA’s history.
