SF Tennis Freak

For many of its’ members, the GLTF of San Francisco is more than just a recreational tennis league.  It’s a place where many of us cultivate deep friendships that, in many ways, become our families.

It’s in this spirit that I’m saddened to write about the passing of Thomas (Tom) Pugh. I asked Jason Atwater, a current GLTF’er and one of Tom’s many SF friends, to send me a little something to share with everyone.

This is from Jason:

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of a beloved former GLTF member, Thomas Pugh.  Tom fought bravely against his lymphoma, but lost the battle when it claimed his life on Sunday April 21, 2013.

Tom had a great love for all things tennis, and was a very active member of the GLTF during his time in San Francisco. He served on its’ board of directors, and even captained several 3.5 and 4.0 teams before he and his partner relocated to the bright lights/big city dreams of NYC.

Those who played tennis with Tom knew that he had a wickedly fast serve, and an even more wicked sense of humor.  I’m certain that somewhere out there, Tom is making the other angels laugh their wings off as he serves up aces on a heavenly court.

Tom is survived by his loving partner Michael Artura, his sister Karen, and his parents, Patricia and Jerry Pugh.  A local memorial service is being planned and info is forthcoming.

Jason’s turning his grief into activism by running a half marathon in Tom’s honor at the San Francisco Nike Women’s Marathon & Half Marathon. His fundraising page is called “Running for Tom P“, and proceeds will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. You can help Jason’s fundraising efforts by clicking this link to make your donation: http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/nikesf13/running4TomP.