Book of Memories for Sean T. Maher

Condolence From Geoff Apthorp

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 19:09:03 EDT

Dear Maria, Kilty, Jack, Maddie, Mary Kate, Grace, Joe, Maeve, Jimmy, Bobby, and all, I had the honor of being Sean's class-mate and fraternity brother at Dartmouth. We also shared a suite at Theta Delt with, at that time, Sean's puppy who chewed everything in sight including my lacrosse warm ups, but none of us minded because we all loved the dog, and we all loved and respected his owner too. I smiled today when I saw the photos you shared on this site. I lost touch with Sean after Dartmouth, but I am not surprised to see that Sean had a full, and joyful family life surrounded by you all. There is nothing more a man can ask for and you can see Sean's happiness in those photos. For Sean to make GM at Ryerson means he truly excelled in his business life too! Sean was a great guy, a fantastic athlete, and a good friend to us all. We will miss him but I am grateful for having known him. God bless you all. Geoff Dartmouth '83

Condolence From Brian Regan

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 15:19:29 EDT

I wanted to express my sympathy for your family. Sean hired my out of college and I worked with him for four years at Ryerson. I remember spending New Years Eve with Sean's in-laws and family in Baltimore, my wife and I hoped with would have a family like him someday. He was a great boss and even better role model.

Condolence From Cathy & Jim Olsen

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 11:41:55 EST

So sorry to hear of your loss. We will pray for you and your family for peace and comfort. Cathy, Jim, Kristin and Josh Olsen(Robincrest Lane, Glenview)

Condolence From Tom Rastrelli

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 17:55:50 EST

Dear Maria, Kilty, Jack, Maddie, Mary Kate, Grace, Joe, Maeve, Jimmy, Bobby, and all, My deepest sympathy to all of you. My grandma just sent me Sean's obituary. I was shocked. My heart aches for all of you. He (and all of you) showed me such kindness and support during my summer in State Center. I have not forgotten you. Wishing you much peace, Tom Rastrelli

Story shared: Maria & Family

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:44:46 EST

You already know how special Sean was to so many people. I expect that his influence and impact on people is immeasurable. I was connected to Sean through business and am proud to say that I knew him. He was always approachable and a genuinely good man. I will miss talking with Sean about everything from the steel business to the Ludwig von Mises Institute! God Bless you and your family.

Condolence From Dennis and Mary Maguire

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 01:14:18 EST

Dear Tom and family, As your old childhood neighbor from across the alley, I was sorry to hear of your son's death. I learned via Mike Pritchard, who we caught up with in Kinsale Ireland a few years ago, where we live half time. With such a grand family, I'm sure he's looking down with pride. All the best, Denny and Mary Maguire

Condolence From Nannette, Sam and Gabrielld Singer

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 16:42:40 EST

Losing a loved one to cancer is such a painful, devastating experience. Although we did not personally see or know Sean well, his son Jack who stayed with us last year gave us a beautiful, devoted and loving picture of this man. What I learned is how much he loved his family, what outstanding character and integrity he possessed and what moral, and wonderful children he and Maria raised. Our hearts go out truly to Maria and the family during this most sorrowful time.

Memorial Candle lit by Jeannette Singer

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:52:21 EST

Nannette, Sam and Gabrielle Singer

Condolence From Pat and Mary Reardon

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:33:36 EST

Maria Mary and I want to extend our heartfelt condolence to you your children, Tom and Alice say the following Prayer of a Happy Death for Sean. "When your eyes shall be closing And your mouth be opening And your senses be slipping away. When your heart shall grow cold and your limbs be old God comfort your soul .."

Condolence From Maureen & John Snook & family

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 19:19:57 EST

I remain speechless at the news, I can only imagine how tough it must be ... your strong faith will get you thru, it's just that it is so difficult understand God's timing. God bless Snook Family in West Chester, PA

Story shared: My friend

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 14:08:45 EST

I worked with Sean for a few years. He is one of the very few people I have ever worked with I would introduce to others as my friend as opposed to someone I worked with. His faith and commitment to his family are what made him the man he was. I will miss him, He was a good friend. I learned much more from Sean about life and honor then I did about steel. He always made me smile.

Condolence From Michael, Lindsay(Hobbs), and Jocelyn Duncan

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:08:40 EST

Our deepest sympathies go out to your family. Sean will always be remembered by those that knew and loved him. From going to school and growing up with Kilty and Jack, I know what kind and wonderful people they are. So we know Sean's kind and wonderful heart will continue on in his children and their children. May God keep your family strong, you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Michael, Lindsay(Hobbs), and Jocelyn Duncan

Condolence From Hiede Wall

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:00:55 EST

Mary, Maddie and Family, I was so shocked when I found this on Maddie's Facebook wall! May the peace of knowing that he is in paradise with our Awesome Lord comfort you! My prayers are with you all!! HUGS to all of you!!

Story shared: A Friend

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:37:41 EST

Maria and Family – My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sean was the most amazing man I’ve ever met and his love for all of you showed daily. When Maria or any of the kids would come into the office, his face would light up more than normal. He was not only a mentor but more importantly a friend. We shed plenty of blood and sweat in the 10 years I worked for him but the times I remember most are the laughs we shared and the guidance he provided. When I needed someone most, Sean was always there with a smile and advice. Sean was not only a leader in the business world but more importantly a leader in life. He led his life as an example for everyone to follow and emulate and I think daily about those values.

Memorial Candle lit by Abra Huffaker

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:18:05 EST

Abra Huffaker, The Gibbs and Overman families.

Condolence From Dr. and Mrs. Dennis W. Runck, Sr.

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:50:07 EST

The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. I Corinthians 15:42 We remember Sean as a student athlete at Dartmouth and a teammate of our son. We remember him well at our son's wedding. These memories live on. We grieve with Sean's family at the loss of husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin--and friend. We rejoice with them at the reunion to come. With our love, prayers, and blessings, Dennis and Nina Runck

Condolence From Mike, Mary Jean, Jack & Kate

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:52:48 EST

Maria and Kids Our prayers are with you all. Sean was a true man of faith, wise beyond his years, and always lent a helping hand and guidance to all he met, we know he is in heaven this day. He was the best .... the best father,husband and friend anyone could ever ask for. We have nothing but the fondest memories from our time together, weather at work or when the families got together. Everytime we think of him, his laugh, his smile, his sense of humor his dedication to all of you it brings a smile to us and it warms our broken hearts.

Condolence From Jay Gratz

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:50:36 EST

My condolences to the entire Maher family. I worked with Sean for a number of years when he was with Ryerson Coil Processing. Of particular note was his engaging way with people, from employees to customers to friends. He will be missed.

Condolence From Jim & Cathy Cockerill

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 12:16:42 EST

Our condolences to the entire Maher family. We wish to express our deepest sympathies for your loss. I worked with Sean at Ryerson, Philadelphia, we became friends immediately. His easy going style and humorous character, quickly gained my respect for him as friend and coworker He is a friend to everyone he met and we will miss him dearly.

Condolence From Rob and Melissa DeWitt

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:34:39 EST

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. It's so hard to lose someone you love. We hope you find comfort in knowing he is with his Father in Heaven.

Condolence From Tim Aden

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:32:40 EST

My deepest sympathy go out to Sean's family. I only got to know Sean for four years while at STA, but he was, even way back then, a true gentleman and a great leader of our class. I don't know if I've ever met a nicer man than Sean and I know he will be truly missed by anyone who ever met him. I'd also though like to share a lighter moment. The first time I ever met Sean was at the 1st football practice our Freshman year at STA. Sean stood up wearing shorts, and I saw his enormous thighs! I thought, "is this a college team or what?" And if I recall correctly Sean took the hand off on our 1st play of our 1st game and ran something like 70 yards for a TD. Opponents just bouncing of him and those huge swimmer's thighs! Well at least thats how I remember it and that's how I will always remember Sean. Tim Aden

Condolence From Bill Klupchak

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:20:25 EST

In this time of profound sadness, Shirley and I extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Maria, the Maher children, their families, and all who were fortunate to have known Sean. Sean's positive and outgoing personality came through in all aspects of his life. We will always remember Sean's big, heartwarming smile and his passion for his family and friends.

Condolence From Peg Schneeman Reagan

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:18:44 EST

Maria and entire Maher family, I counted Sean as one of my dearest friends in high school. Sean T. was lovely by many. We lost track over the years. However, I was fortunate to see him shortly before his diagnosis at the St. Thomas Academy promotions. He looked so well with his characteristic smile as he offered a big hug. I am so sorry for your loss and am grateful for the fond memories. It is with sadness and regret that he gone. But, I know your faith is strong and Sean T. will continue to guide you from his new venue. Sincerely, Peg Schneeman Reagan

Condolence From Jo Hutchison

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:10:03 EST

To the Maher Family, My deepest sympathy goes out to the Maher family. Sean will be greatly missed. I worked with Sean while I was at Ryerson. He helped everyone with what ever was needed from minor to major. He always saw the best in people and that is a very wonderful quality to find in a person. Sean will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him. He will be welcomed with open arms in heaven. Quote from Richard Paul Evans book The Letter: When we bury someone we love, we must also bury a part of our heart. But we should not bemoan this loss. Our hearts, perhaps, are all they can take with them.

Condolence From Ozzie & Cori Lindquist

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:33:46 EST

Dear Maher Family, It was a privilege to get to know such a Godly man of integrity. It was very evident that his priorities of loving God and family were primary in his life. We are confident that this legacy will carry on through the family. Cori and I are praying for God's love and comfort to flood you all. Please know that God is faithful to provide all that you need in every way in the days to come. Much Love, Ozzie, Cori and family

Condolence From Shannon & Mike Boyd

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:29:45 EST

Maria and all the Mahers, We are heartbroken for your loss but comforted by Sean’s faith and the peace he has entered into. Shannon and I knew him first as a “but a lad” and were privileged to see him grow into a wonderful husband and father. There is a wonderful Irish Creed that speaks to the man he became: An Irish Creed Wit Is something to treasure Charm Is something to live Peace Is something to keep Joy is something to feel trust is something to find God is the one to thank from now ‘till the end of time All the best with our great love Shannon & Mike Boyd

Condolence From Louise & David Piziali

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:21:37 EST

Dear Maria and Family, Our sympathy and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. May God bless you and your family with his peace and presence and may you find strength and comfort in the love and prayers of your family and friends. We are so very sorry for your loss. David, Louise & Kristi Piziali

Condolence From Cindy Bills & Family

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:56:27 EST

Dear Maria and Family, Our hearts are broken but Heaven is rejoicing. Sean will always be with all of you, every single second of every single day. He will be in every breath you take, in the warmth of the sun on your skin, and in every star that you see in the night sky. But most of all, he will be in every new life that is born into your family. Always have peace in knowing, that each and everyone of you have your own personal guardian angel, and that you are loved more than human voices can speak. We love you all.

Story shared: A Hero

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:41:26 EST

In the short time that my family has known Sean, he taught my children what it means to be a true father, husband and man of the greatest faith. My children love and admire him and his family more than they will ever know. Sean gave tirelessly of himself to everyone and everything. No other man, outside of his sons, could set a finer example. He and Maria helped us in our time of great need and loss. They are also Godparents to my daughter Brooklyn, and were with her when she was baptised at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Haverhill in 2001. Whenever my kids were with them, they never wanted to leave, because the love one felt in that home cannot be told with words. His loss is truly a tragedy for those he left behind. Outside of John Paul II, no other man will surely receive the welcome into God's Kingdom that Sean received. Dearest Maria, Kilty, Jack, Maddie, Mary Kate, Grace, Joe, Mauve, Jimmy, and Bobby- Our sincerest of prayers, love and sympathy are with you all. God Bless. Cindy, Brandon, Brittany, Bryton and Brooklyn Bills; Angela, Hunter Daniel, and Aidan Jay Hofer; Michele and Kael Hayden Younkin.

Condolence From Alice Wright Donohue

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:11:14 EST

My sympathies and prayers are with your family. I knew Sean for a few years while I worked at Ryerson. He was a inspiration to us all.

Condolence From Dr. and Mrs. Don McMillan

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 20:08:58 EST

Dear Alice and Tom and Family Members: We send our sympathy to you both and all of Sean's family. This is a time of great sorrow for the loss that you all feel. Sean is at peace and with the Lord which really is our goal in this life, even a short life like Sean's. The memories will last forever and his life will be an inspiration to both young and older family members. May God Bless you all. We will offer our prayers for Sean and all of you. Pat and Don McMillan

Condolence From Janet Werne

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:51:45 EST

Kilty, Bryan and family, Just received word about your dad, Sean. Know of my continued prayers and thoughts during this very difficult time. It is never easy to lose a parent, and even harder when they are so young. Janet Werne, St. Meinrad, IN

Condolence From Philip Damm

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:33:35 EST

Sean and I went all the back to our days in New England. In fact, I interviewed Sean for a Ryerson job in Phila. I remember saying "what a great guy" and "we have to hire him back". Our friendship started then and never stopped. The world has lost a wonderful person, Ryerson has lost a great employee and I have lost a good friend.

Story shared: To Maria

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:17:01 EST

Hi Maria June called late Sunday night and we both cried. I am so sorry and I can hardly believe it is true. I cannot stop thinking about all of the beautiful times and the closeness we shared with Jesus and Mary. Sean was there the night we had the Rosary campfire at Piola's . You were home with one of the newborns. While we were praying, a sphere of light in the distance appeared and came closer and closer and then so close in the sky over the valley. WE were all amazed, the adults and the kids. The sphere of white light then started to radiate beams of light in all directions for about another 7 - 10 minutes right in front of us. In an instant it all disappeared. We later learned about the pillar of cloud from the Bible. It was amazing and mysterious and I always thought it was Mary and the Holy Spirit, but now Sean has solved the mystery of the light,he knows who was in the light, he clearly sees the lady in that light, he is with her in the light right now and right nearby. More later, just know that I love you and you are right in my heart now. PS: People from allover our area are emailing me with prayers and sadness. I want everyone, even those who did not know Sean to see his photos here becasue just one look at him and the glow from his joyous face and the love of his family will let everyone know the man and the wonderful life he lived here. Love Jan

Condolence From Thomas Twohig

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:31:18 EST

Maria and family, I am so sorry for your loss. As Sean's cousin, we spent many Thanksgivings together with the Mahers at my mother's home and they still remain as some of my favorite memories as a a youth. Sean was always a gregarious, happy kid who grew into a tremendous man and father. I lost touch recently with Sean and didn't realize you had been blessed with nine children. I hope you find comfort in your large immediate and extended families in this difficult time.

Story shared: A Great Man, in every sense of the word

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:20:48 EST

I worked with Sean for about 10 years. I learned many things from Sean and the most important things game outside the area of business. The commitment he had to his family, faith and friends can simply be put as "second to none". Sean in his ultimate salesmanship convinced my family and I to move to Iowa and come to work for him. I can remember vividly him sitting across the desk and asking me to move my family to Iowa. Without hesitation I said yes. I already had known Sean was a man with great principle. When our family learned of Sean's passing my youngest daughter said if it wasn't for Sean we would not be living in Iowa today, and there is no place I would rather live. I owe a great deal to Sean. He had such a positive impact on so many lives that I am sure it will be diffulcult to measure the full scale of his reach. There hasn't been a day go by when I haven't thought of Sean and his family, the impact he had on my life was incredible. Sean will be greatly missed but the lessons he has taught all of us will live on forever. My heart felt prayers go out to his wonderful wife and family.

Condolence From Jim Angone

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:56:45 EST

My sincere condolences to Sean's family. I worked with Sean prior to my retirement in 2005. Our prayers are with him and for all of his family.

Condolence From Greg Bobka

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:50:43 EST

Carla and I send our deepest condolences to the Maher family. I too work with Sean in West Chester and know what a great family man and person he was. We are truly saddened. Hopefully Maria and their kids can draw on their Faith to find the strength to carry forward.

Condolence From Bill Griffiths

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:15:58 EST

The photos of Sean and family really capture his essence. A devoted family man, father and husband, always eager to lend a hand to anyone in need. His eyes radiate a joy for life, a spiritual devotion and love for family and friends. And what a great smile! That's how I remember him. Our heardfelt condolences to the Maher family. Bill & Shari Griffiths

Condolence From tim farrell

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 10:17:16 EST

I am very sorry to learn of Seans' passing. I have worked for Ryerson for the past 38 years and Sean,without a doubt, was one of the most enjoyable,dedicated and bright people that I have worked with. I will miss his laughter and smile.

Condolence From Barry Beisel

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:59:31 EST

I knew Sean all through Grade School and High School... God has never made a finer human being.

Condolence From John Briddell

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:39:27 EST

My condolences to the entire Maher family.. Sean was such a great person and he will be sadly missed.. He is gone but not forgotten. I worked for Sean for several years and by far he was one of the greatest managers that I have ever worked for. He was always so pleasant and easy going and always had a kind word to say. May the family find comfort at this time and I will keep you all in my prayers..

Story shared: A Great Man

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 19:12:30 EST

Sadly, Sean Maher, the young father of 9?, died yesterday after battling tongue cancer. The Maher's used to live in West Chester and had a Victorian house near St.Agnes. Frequently on Sundays after Mass, Sean and Maria would invite strangers over for pancakes. They would look for people that seemed new or didn't seem to know anyone. The house would be overflowing with kids and adults just relaxing in the comfortable homey atmosphere with friendship and faith. The house would exude the feel of their devotion to the Catholic Church. They always reached out with evangelization and love to everyone. Sean had to move to Iowa for his job and it was there that he developed cancer. The tremendous faith of the entire Maher family only grew stronger during this time of hardship and suffering. Sean died yesterday surrounded by his family. It was a happy death in the arms of Jesus and Mary. Please pray for his family as they will have to face many struggles especially financially.

Condolence From Marta Ritten Melin

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:26:40 EST

To Carrie and the entire Maher family, I am so sorry to hear of Sean's passing. I remember him as a kind mentor to my brother Chris during their STA football days. He was such a sweet guy and always smilng. Our prayers go out to you.

Condolence From Bob Dudzik

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:09:59 EST

I cannot tell you how sad I was to learn of Sean's passing. I lost my Janis to cancer nearly 11 years ago to the day. Sean was always there with a smile and a voice of reason. I don't think we would have made it in West Chester without him. My prayers are with Maria and the family.

Story shared: Mentor and Friend

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:53:44 EST

To the Maher family, I'm not sure I can put into words or describe what a great person/human being Sean was and how fortunate I was to work with him. Back when he was directly involved with a major appliance account, he basically helped me understand the challenges needed to be a supplier to Ryerson and Maytag. Over several years, he always made time to talk to me and discuss how can we do more business together. He was a true leader and his love of family and priorities were always very clear. I know one thing I've learned from him- is to have your faith & beliefs and not fear even when others don't understand you- your faith in God is what gets us through life. Having a large wonderful family------- shows that Sean will never be forgotten----- you all are part of him and what a wonderful gift he has left us all. I learned this from when my mother passed and she was my hero. There would be days- when I'd say "oh mom what would you do"? It didn't take long for me to realize she was already a part of me. All the answers you need are within you. He's always there for you. Take Care, Sonja

Condolence From kevin kirkland

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:29:36 EST

My deepest condolences to the Maher family. Got to know Sean through our time at Ryerson. He always seemed a man of deep faith, hopefully that faith will help the family through these trying times. Kevin

Condolence From Tammy Graham

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:52:36 EST

To the Maher Family, Sean was a tremendous person. I worked with him for a few years at Ryerson and he was always the most gracious professional and wonderful co-worker. I admired his commitment to his family first attitude and his tireless fight to succeed for his extended family at Ryerson Marshalltown. He was a bright light in the world. It was honor to know him and call him a friend. Deepest Sympathy, Tammy Graham

Photo shared: Sean_Maher.JPG

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:26:41 EST