HARDENBERGH, Thomas E.

Mohave Daily News, Mohave Valley, AZ - Published in Mohave Daily News Online from June 24 to July 1, 2012 - Thomas E. "Tom" Hardenbergh, age 81, a long-time resident of Laughlin, Nev., passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, June 12, 2012. He was born on December 22, 1930. Tom's military career in the United States Navy began on June 27, 1948, as a young recruit in San Diego, Calif. The next 30 years took him around the world, navigating C-130 cargo planes, and in the late 60's, sea deployments during the Vietnam War. His last six years were spent as Master Chief (MCPO) of North Island Naval Base in Coronado, Calif. After retiring from the Navy, Tom and Helen relocated to Lake Tahoe, Calif., where he worked at Harrah's Casino & Hotel as a cook who served breakfast for the employees. Several years later, they moved to Laughlin to help open the new Harrah's Rio. Tom and Helen both loved the warmth of the desert, and the tri-state area, over the snow and cold they had in Lake Tahoe. They enjoyed the peacefulness and serenity, yet still had fun at the local casinos, as well as occasional visits to Las Vegas, Nev. Tom was involved in Laughlin Senior Citizens, Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1860, and the American Legion Post #60 in Laughlin, where he served as an Executive Committee member. Tom also served as a Post Commander from 2003-2006. He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Helen, who passed in January of 2003; son, George W., who died in 1984; and grandson, Thomas, who died in 2009. Tom is survived by five children, Robert C., Charles G., Linda D., Margo A., and Thomas E. Jr. (Cindy); six grandchildren, Melissa (Matthew), Kindra, Candice, Marcia, Zachary and Megan; and eight great-grandchildren, Melanie, Isaiah, Zoe, Jeremiah, Alyssa, Matthew Jr., Lillyanna, and Bryce. His final arrangements are still pending. For further details, please contact the American Legion Post #60 Post Commander, 1510 Bruce Woodbury Dr, Laughlin, NV, (702)299-1510.