How can you be anything but sad when the obituary of Tom Chatman appeared? I can't imagine there were too many people in York who didn't know him, or at least know OF him.
I personally met Tom for the first time when I worked at the courthouse, and parked in the garage across the street. I had had some kind of problem, I don't remember exactly what it was, I just remember that he personally took care of it right away. And that after that, he remembered my name, and would inquire how I was doing whenever I saw him at work, or around town. He did this with everyone, I'm sure too many to even count.
At one point, we realized that he also knew my brother. Back from the 60's, when he was a detective on York City police force. My brother had his Barracuda jacket stolen. (Remember Barracudas), He went down to the police station, and Tom happened to be the one who took the "case." My brother said he thought he knew who had taken the jacket, and when Detective Chatman asked how he knew this, Rick said, "because it doesn't fit him right." Chatman then asked my brother how he could be so sure, and asked what size my brother thought Tom was. Rick answered the question spot on, convincing the detective he knew what he was talking about.
Rick worked at Wiests mens department at that time, (Remember Wiests?) and the detective often bought clothing from him after that.
And then even 30 years later, Tom remembered him, and would always ask about him as well when he saw me.
Then when Tom worked as a tipstaff for Judge Uhler (also one of York's best), he always cut a sharp command of respect, fit for a courtroom. In the hallways, he had a wonderful, professional, yet extremely friendly demeanor. He was the perfect balance of personal and professional. We have truly lost and Officer and a Gentleman. We'll miss you.
He will be missed.