Obituary of Thomas J. Hadjis

Thomas James Hadjis, 84, of LAKE PLACID, NY died peacefully at his recent residence in DELMAR, NY on March 5, 2023 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom (Tommy) was born on October 9, 1938 in Lake Placid to Greek immigrant parents, who had been drawn to the picturesque Olympic town to raise their family and to begin a lifetime in the restaurant business. He spent much of his youth learning from his father in the family restaurants, “Le Bourget,”  “The Charcoal Pit,” his own bakery “Tommy’s Coffee Shop,” and developed a passion for all things culinary. Tom was always proud of his heritage, of his parents’ strong work ethic, and valued the life lessons gained within the family businesses.

His parents also taught him to equally value education. After graduating from Northwood School in 1956, in the same beloved town in which he grew up, Tom left to pursue higher education and other interests at New York University, graduating with a B.A. in 1960.

An inquisitive and determined individual, before continuing to graduate school, Tom became a most proud member of the U.S. Navy and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He frequently reveled in telling stories of his Navy travels and fondly remembered his close Navy comrades. After active service, Tom remained in the Reserves while attending Albany Law School and earned a J.D. in 1968 as well as a Master of Science degree from Union College in 1972.

While he remained in Albany for a time, working as Assistant to the Attorney General of the NYS Department of Law, the lure of the Adirondacks called him home to Lake Placid to raise his own young family. He began serving as the Assistant District Attorney of Essex County, and later returned to private practice throughout the remainder of his career. To those who knew Tom, he was a dedicated father and grandfather, an exceptionally bright man, with great integrity, and a sportsman of all seasons, with many talents and hobbies.  He could build anything, fix anything and his sage advice touched many. He gained many wonderful friends along his life journey, was a fiercely loyal friend and cherished all who were fortunate to know him.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Christina Caballero (Pascal), their daughter Camille, Nini Hadjis, Priscilla (Lollie) Hannan (Robert Hannan Jr.), their son Patrick and her stepson Robert Hannan III (Ashley). He is also survived by his siblings, nieces and nephews and precious Goddaughter, Rachel (De) Wittmann Maher (Charley) and their son Connor. He was pre-deceased by his grandson James Joseph Hannan.

Tom adored animals, which he instilled in his children and was a devoted dog-owner throughout his life. For many years, he graciously supported his daughters’ participation in horsemanship and was most pleased with their current volunteer work with horse rescue. For those who wish to honor him through his daughters, please send contributions to the Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation, P.O. Box 122 Greenville NY 12083.  

A private memorial in the Adirondacks is planned for spring.