THOMAS HALLMAN OBITUARY
Tom, also know as T-Bone to family and friends, was born to Edward and Maryellen Hallman. He was raised in Castro Valley, CA. He served in the US Army and after an honorable discharge he attended Cal State University, Hayward receiving his Bachelors degree in 1969 then finished at the University of San Francisco with a teaching degree. He specialized in special education and went on to work at Bay School in the San Lorenzo School District working with physically and mentally challenged kids in grade school. He loved his kids and enjoyed helping those with very special needs. He was one of the first in his field to use augmentative devices to give a voice to those who could not speak!Tom was a positive force meeting up with other teachers from the Castro Valley and Hayward School District along with Chabot College. He joined in with a new philosophy in giving opportunities for independence by working with the other teachers and volunteers to take the kids on camping trips to Camp Harmony in Santa Cruz also working on academics and independence.He tapped into the Recreation Department where some of his kids that participated in the summer months in a camping program called Ward Creek Day Camp so they would not be sitting at home. He was instrumental in sponsoring a student in the Recreation Department by getting him a eye exam and new glasses. He did things to make the world a better, kinder place for his students giving them opportunities to live their lives while being independent and comfortable in their own skins.T-Bone was very into cars. He loved old cars and being a part of his car club, the Danville Dukes! He spent time at car shows and had some beautiful cars. Some of his favorite cars were a 1966 Chevy El Camino and a 1934 Roadster! After he retired, he spent many of his mornings meeting with all his special friends at Dale's Cafe for breakfast.Tom is survived by his life partner, Barbara Woodward, cousins Debbie Vennekotter and her husband Mike, and Debbie's children Lucas and Buck Hill. He was loved by his family and we cannot say enough about Tom – he'll be missed by so very many. Yes! Tom Hallman was meant to be on this earth he made a difference in so many peoples lives. He loved the Lord and is walking in the streets of gold with all his friends, students and family in heaven. Well done good and faithful servant!Whether or not you can make Tom's Celebration of Life, please feel free to email your memories and notes to They will be shared at his Celebration and posted to family. If former student or parent, please include maiden name if applicable, and what your relationship was with Tom.Tom's Celebration of Life will be held at his home on July 13. Please call 510.537.0052 for more information and instructions. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Thomas Hallman's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Animal Rescue Foundation or a similar charity of your choice. Thank you for thinking about Tom. He will be making a lot of friends and driving his favorite cars in Heaven.
