Harold T. "Tom" Curran
March 5, 1935 ~ February 28, 2014
H. Thomas (Tom) Curran, Jr. died unexpectedly on Friday, February 28, 2014, at Fairfax Hospital. A resident of Haymarket, Va., he was 78 years old.
Born on March 5, 1935, Tom grew up in Cliffside Park, NJ. He graduated from Cardinal Farley Military Academy in Rhinecliff, NJ in 1953 where he excelled as a student leader and on the football team. A graduate of Villanova University, (c of 1957), with a degree in psychology, Tom remained an active alumni of VU. He established the Harold Thomas Curran scholarship (named for his father) to provide first generation college students the opportunity to attend Villanova University.
Tom enlisted and served in the US Army from 1957 to 1959. He married his first wife, Virginia Gallo, in 1959, they had four children and settled in Annandale, Va.
Tom, a true entrepreneur, was the founder and retired CEO of American Systems Corporation. His vision, along with his partners', Woody Ramsey, was to create the "the better company". The "ASC Way" meant employees were "available, able, willing and committed". It gave people responsibility with minimal management. Wanting to continue the legacy, the company was sold to the employees in order to maintain the basic values that were instilled. He retired as Chairman of the Board in 2001.
He married Sarah Brock in April, 1996. Tom and Sarah enjoyed traveling together, riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, spending winters in Jensen Beach, Florida, and supporting the arts through the Kennedy Center. Tom was an avid tennis player and lover of books and music. He enjoyed card and board games, and vacationing with his children and their families. He influenced countless lives through his leadership, integrity and generous spirit.
Beloved husband of Sarah R Curran for 17 years. Devoted father of Steve (Cindy) Curran, Daniel Curran (Stephanie Steele), Katherine (Bruce) Prouty, and Virginia (Jeffrey) Schrank. Loving grandfather of Stephen Thomas, Michael, Carly and Danny Curran, Alyssa, Sophia and Brooke Prouty, Nick, Steve, Jake and Tommy Schrank. Loving stepfather to Cameron (Aaron) Glahe and grandfather to her children, Hayden and Morgan. Also survived by his first wife, Virginia Gerner. He was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Marie Curran and his sister, Patricia Curran Danisewicz.
Relatives and friends are invited to Tom's Life Celebration at Money & King Funeral Home, 171 W. Maple Avenue, Vienna, VA on Friday, March 7 from 1 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mark Catholic Church, 9970 Vale Road, Vienna, VA on Saturday, March 8 at 11 am. Interment will follow at Flint Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center at http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/GivingSite?pxfid=36950&fr_id=1580&pg=fund.
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
Born on March 5, 1935, Tom grew up in Cliffside Park, NJ. He graduated from Cardinal Farley Military Academy in Rhinecliff, NJ in 1953 where he excelled as a student leader and on the football team. A graduate of Villanova University, (c of 1957), with a degree in psychology, Tom remained an active alumni of VU. He established the Harold Thomas Curran scholarship (named for his father) to provide first generation college students the opportunity to attend Villanova University.
Tom enlisted and served in the US Army from 1957 to 1959. He married his first wife, Virginia Gallo, in 1959, they had four children and settled in Annandale, Va.
Tom, a true entrepreneur, was the founder and retired CEO of American Systems Corporation. His vision, along with his partners', Woody Ramsey, was to create the "the better company". The "ASC Way" meant employees were "available, able, willing and committed". It gave people responsibility with minimal management. Wanting to continue the legacy, the company was sold to the employees in order to maintain the basic values that were instilled. He retired as Chairman of the Board in 2001.
He married Sarah Brock in April, 1996. Tom and Sarah enjoyed traveling together, riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, spending winters in Jensen Beach, Florida, and supporting the arts through the Kennedy Center. Tom was an avid tennis player and lover of books and music. He enjoyed card and board games, and vacationing with his children and their families. He influenced countless lives through his leadership, integrity and generous spirit.
Beloved husband of Sarah R Curran for 17 years. Devoted father of Steve (Cindy) Curran, Daniel Curran (Stephanie Steele), Katherine (Bruce) Prouty, and Virginia (Jeffrey) Schrank. Loving grandfather of Stephen Thomas, Michael, Carly and Danny Curran, Alyssa, Sophia and Brooke Prouty, Nick, Steve, Jake and Tommy Schrank. Loving stepfather to Cameron (Aaron) Glahe and grandfather to her children, Hayden and Morgan. Also survived by his first wife, Virginia Gerner. He was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Marie Curran and his sister, Patricia Curran Danisewicz.
Relatives and friends are invited to Tom's Life Celebration at Money & King Funeral Home, 171 W. Maple Avenue, Vienna, VA on Friday, March 7 from 1 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mark Catholic Church, 9970 Vale Road, Vienna, VA on Saturday, March 8 at 11 am. Interment will follow at Flint Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center at http://mskcc.convio.net/site/TR/Events/GivingSite?pxfid=36950&fr_id=1580&pg=fund.
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
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Dan, Stephanie and Curran family: Jill and I are sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. Our prayers to you for a peace beyond all understanding. With Love, Tom and Jill Steele
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Curran family and our loving daughter-in-law Cameron Glahe. He was a gentleman and generous of heart.
Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers for comfort go out to the Curran family. With love and care, Ann Gerner Birkmire and family
I realize that no words can really help temper the pain brought about by your loss. I hope and pray that you will derive some small measure of comfort knowing that you are in our thoughts and prayers. And we pray that the God of all comfort would minister to all of Tom’s loved ones as only He can.
Tom was an absolutely fantastic person and all of us Ramseys loved him dearly. I have nothing but great memories of his kind, loving, thoughtful ways. He’s a good inspiration to follow! May God bless him richly for all he’s done for others. Happy Birthday in heaven, my friend! Love you!! Sue
Although I only new Tom a short while I could tell he was a man of wisdom and real world knowledge. I was honored to have known him and wish nothing but the best for the Curran family.
None of us will ever know how many people Tom helped in his life because he did so quietly and with great character. He was just that kind of guy. Tom was my friend, boss, role model and mentor for 35 years. Tom stepped up to the plate and gave away my wife at our wedding and did so with such grace and dignity that it was almost like Kim’s dad was still alive. Tom was the man. If you look up the word entrepreneur in the dictionary, you will see a picture of Tom — what a businessman. He was a successful businessman with a soul and he really cared about everyone who worked for him. He was an incredible family man and he had a long list of life long friends that he deeply valued. He was just one of those guys — a real man, a real friend, a leader and very successful but in a humble way. I think all of us who were touched by Tom were just blessed. What a guy. I love you Tom. You set the bar so high, you are the only guy I know that could get over it.
Deepest condolences to the Curran family. I met Tom only a handful of times through the Prouty family, but I know a great deal about his great strength and character. Most of all, I know how much Tom is loved by his children and the legacy he left. God bless.
I didn’t know Tom but by everything that is being said by his friends, he was an amazing man. However, I know one of his sons, Dan, who must have taken after his dad because Dan is an awesome person. I am so sorry for the family and friends’ loss. I pray that the Lord will fill your hearts with wonderful memories. God Bless you all.
Tom, myself and three other close friends left Rutherford NJ for swearing in the US Army September 1957. Went in on the buddy system, not to be seperated for the two year enlistment. At Ft Dix waiting to be assigned for basic training Tom woke me up, said he was being shipped out. Could not believe it, Tom said, “so much for the buddy system”. Didn’t see him for two years. The five of us spent one month in a rented house on the Jersey Shore prior to enlistment. Talk about a great time! Everybody got married, lost touch till recently. Found Tom on “Classmates” Plans were to get together, naver happened, feel bad. Great guy Tom, had a lot of good times. Miss him already
Tom and I have shared a lot of good times since I first met him in 1971. He has been my mentor and friend throughout my professional life. I remember fun Christmas times at his house in Annandale, with him surrounded by family. He was there when Tommy and I married and in true Tom fashion, he took charge. Throughout all the years he was always there for me. My condolences to the family just know I am here for you just as Tom was there for me. With Love, TJ
We are so sorry for your loss. Tom was bigger than life and will be missed by many. There are so many fond memories….
Tom was a great man with an amazing family. I was privileged to have known Tom and family through my mom (Lynn) who worked with/for Tom for many years. Our families crossed paths many times during my childhood. Then, when I graduated from college Tom/Steve hired me to assist at ASC. I enjoyed my years there and being part of the ASC “family” he created. Tom will be truly missed and I am saddened by this sudden loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you! Take care of each other during this difficult time. Love, Inga
Dear Dan, We extend our sincere condolences for the loss of your Dad. Our prayers are with you and for the happy repose of your father’s soul. Sincerely, Rick and Loretta
My heartfelt condolences go out to Tom’s family.I never had the chance to meet any of his family, but I had the great pleasure and privilege of knowing him on and off the tennis courts over the past 6-7 years. He was a leader, incisive wit with a great sense of humor and a genuine concern for his fellow man. He will be greatly missed but not forgotten. Peter Askin
It is our great pleasure to have known Tom and to know Sarah. He was a close friend of my Dad and Step Mother Sig and Sharon Alman of Oakton VA. Tom was always gracious and kind to my family, we had the great joy of sharing time with he and Sarah and hsd the opportunity to spend time at their beach house in Delaware, not to mention the generosity with which he treated my parents when they visited and vacationed with he and Sarah. I know my Mom and Dad loved Tom and love Sarah and will miss him with all their hearts. We wish all the best and send our prayers to Sarah and the rest of Tom’s family and of course to all of those who will miss his wonderful spirit and smile. He was truly a wonderful friend
I was very privileged to know Tom for over 28 years. As part of the AMERICAN SYSTEMS family I of course saw Tom as the great businessman, leader, and role model that he was; however, he was so much more than that. He was such a fantastic and thoughtful person. I’ll never forget when we first moved into Dominion Valley (Tom’s neighborhood) several years ago and we would find pies and welcome baskets left at our front door – all delivered by Tom. But the best was how Tom would leave Villanova T-shirts, stickers, and other Villanova “stuff” in our mailbox for my son because he was worried my son would grow up “corrupted” with only VA Tech stuff and no Villanova stuff! Tom will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences to the Curran family.
Tom was a good and kind friend. We especially enjoyed his generous hospitality. We miss him greatly. He will not be forgotten. Harry and Carol Deitz
Tom, You helped shape my career, with many words of wisdom. You will be sorely missed. To Sarah, Steve, Ginger (and the entire Curran family) you have my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Don
I was an employe of ASC and Tom took me for my first motorcycle ride. I thought it would be a short ride around the parking lot and it became a trip to The Vienna Grill. A wonderful memory and a wonderful man. My condolences.
Since the early 70s our family has been closely linked with Tom’s – sons Kevin & Keith with Steve and Dan and daughter Kerry with Ginny. Tom and I were business compatriots and good friends. I admired his business acumen and ethic and relished his friendship. He’ll be sorely missed, professionally and personally. Our deepest condolences to the whole Curran family.
I was so sad to come across the notice of Mr. Curran’s death. My condolences to the Curran family, especially Steve and Dan and Mark D. with whom I worked in the mid 80s. May you all be comforted by your memories of him. I have fond memories of my time at ASC. Peace, Toby (Nadler) Oberg