It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Tom Butler, a respected safety professional, mentor, and one of the founding members of the ASSP Long Beach Chapter.
Tom’s dedication to the safety profession and to our chapter spanned decades. His leadership and commitment helped shape the Long Beach Chapter into the strong and vibrant professional community it is today. He served as Chapter President in 1994, 2009, and 2012, providing guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support to our members throughout his career.
Tom’s contributions to the safety profession extended far beyond his official roles. He was known for his professionalism, commitment to excellence, and genuine care for people. His influence touched countless safety professionals, many of whom benefited from his mentorship, encouragement, and leadership.
In recognition of his extraordinary legacy, the Long Beach Chapter established the Thomas Butler Award for Safety Excellence, one of the chapter’s highest honors. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate superior service, exceptional leadership, extraordinary dedication to the safety profession, and a commitment to the highest ideals of ASSP. Tom’s values and example continue to inspire every recipient of this distinguished award.
His impact on our chapter was further recognized in 2024 when he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Long Beach Chapter, honoring a lifetime of service to the profession and the ASSP community.
Tom’s service and celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 14, at 2:00 PM at Green Hills Memorial Park in San Pedro, California. We invite Tom’s friends, colleagues, and members of the safety community to join us in honoring and remembering a remarkable individual whose legacy will continue to influence our profession for generations.
On behalf of the ASSP Long Beach Chapter, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Tom’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Thank you, Tom, for your leadership, friendship, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to advancing the safety profession. Your legacy will live on through the chapter you helped build and the countless lives you touched.