Deceased October 18, 2023
View alumni profile (log in required)
Read obituary
IN MEMORY
Robert Thomas Green Jr., age 86, passed away surrounded by his family on Oct. 18, 2023. Tom leaves, to cherish his memory, his wife of 59 years, Gretchen; four children, Wendy, Bob, Kate and Greta; and seven grandchildren.
Tom was born in 1937; grew up in Shelby, Ohio; and went on to boarding school at Western Reserve Academy class of ’55. He graduated from Amherst College in 1959 and was a member of the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity, where he treasured those lifelong friendships. He extended his love of the College by spearheading class fundraising, social events and reunions over the years. In 2001, Tom received the prestigious Medal for Eminent Service from the Amherst Board of Trustees, presented to an alum who has demonstrated extraordinary devotion to the College.
After Amherst, Tom married his love, Gretchen; started a family; and began his career in sales and marketing with a division of U.S. Steel. In 1965, he joined Cleveland-based mining and shipping company Oglebay Norton, where he advanced to ultimately take the helm as president and CEO. He retired in 1999 after 34 years of service.
When Tom retired, he was really just getting started with his life’s work. Tom committed himself to the service of others, focusing on advancing education and supporting the Episcopal Church. Tom was active as a trustee of Western Reserve Academy as well as serving in numerous leadership positions at Christ Church Episcopal in Hudson, Ohio; the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio; and the board of trustees for the Episcopal Preaching Foundation. In addition, Tom was honored to serve on various boards and in other leadership positions for the Cleveland Growth Association, The Cleveland Orchestra, Hiram College and Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, supporting one of his passions in addition to antique fire trucks: trains.
Greta Foster