Thomas P. Konen, Research Professor Stevens Institute of Technology
Thomas P. Konen, 66, died of a brain aneurysm Dec. 17 at the Somerset Medical Center, Somerville, N.J. He was a research professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, N.J., and a professional engineer. Active in national and international engineering societies, he was known for his expertise in water supply and drainage."The research he has done has impacted product designs in just about every plumbing category," said David W. Viola, technical director at the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute. "He was involved in water conservation efforts and studied how much water was being saved as a result of federal laws. His work contributed to design improvements."
Konen received an award for excellence in plumbing design from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers. His research was featured in National Geographic magazine. He held several patents. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Phyllis Policastro Konen, three children and six grandchildren.
William Hamm, Former MCAA President
William M. Hamm Jr., formerly of Bern Inc. in Shreveport, La., died Dec. 16 after a long illness. Hamm was appointed to the Mechanical Contractors Association of America board of directors in 1975 and served as president of the association in 1982.
Hamm's family has requested that memorials be sent to the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary at 3939 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70126-4858, or to the Broadmoor Baptist Church Building Fund at 4110 Youree Dr., Shreveport, LA 71105.
Tom Whalen, PCA Board Member
Tom Whalen, president of Advance Mechanical Systems in Mount Prospect, Ill., died Dec. 18. He was a board member of the Mechanical Contractors Association of America/ Plumbing Contractors of America, as well as a member of the Joint Apprentice Committee of Local 501.Whalen is survived by his wife Lola and four children: Tom, Scott, Tracey and Carissa. The funeral took place Dec. 20 at the Alphonsus Church of Prospect Heights, Ill
