Golf Course Builders Association of America

6040 S. 58th Street, Ste D

Lincoln, NE 68516

Phone: 402.476.4444

E-mail: information@gcbaa.org














Tamas “Tom” Tanto

March 21, 1938 – January 25, 2025

Tom Tanto was the founder of Tanto Irrigation, one of the first GCBAA Certified Golf Irrigation Contractor companies.

Tom Tanto, 86, of Greensburg, PA, passed in Fort Myers, FL on January 25, 2025. Born in

Kormend, Hungary, Tom emigrated to the United States in 1957 and built a life full of love, loyalty,

and generosity with all those around him.


A larger-than-life figure in the golf industry, Tom was a major contributor for over 50 years as a

contractor and owner and partner in several successful businesses. He was at the forefront of golf

course irrigation development, shaping the industry with his expertise, innovation, and work ethic.


Tom’s professional contributions were recognized with several prestigious awards. In 2013, Tom

was named a Distinguished Alumnus by the Swanson School of Engineering at his alma

mater, the University of Pittsburgh. In 2019, he was honored with the Roy Williams Memorial

Award, presented by the American Society of Irrigation Consultants (ASIC), and the Col. John

Morley Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), which

honors those who have made outstanding contributions to industry professionalism.


A fixture in the industry, Tom was known for his gregarious personality and commitment to

mentoring countless professionals throughout his career. His influence and legacy continue to

shape the industry to this day.


Beyond his professional success, Tom had a deep appreciation for 19th century art carefully

curating an impressive collection displayed at his historic home in Greensburg. With an extensive

collection of fine wines, Tom loved to entertain friends and family in a setting that reflected his

genuine kindness, warmth and hospitality.


Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was a loving and

proud husband of Susan, his wife of 59 years, a dedicated father to his son Dan (Karen) and

daughter Anne (Mark) Gamble. Tom is also survived by his two sisters, Eva Czéh and Zsuzsa

Tanto Németh of Hungary with whom he shared a close bond throughout his life. His

grandchildren, nieces and nephews of the United States, Hungary, Switzerland, Denmark and

Finland brought him immeasurable joy, and he cherished time spent with them.


A memorial service to honor Tom’s life will be conducted on Saturday, February 15 starting at

11am at Charter Oak Church - Frye Farm Campus, 449 Frye Farm Road, Greensburg, PA 15601.

Luncheon will follow at a local restaurant to be determined. A Celebration of Life and Dinner

remembering Tom Tanto will be held at the Tanto Farm in Greensburg during the 2025 US Open

Championship – Oakmont. Date and details to follow.


In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in the name of Tamas Tanto may be made

to Charter Oak Church – Missions, 449 Frye Farm Road, Greensburg 15601 or to the University

of Pittsburgh – Greensburg, 150 Finoli Drive, LH 203A, Greensburg PA 15601 or online:

www.giveto.pitt.edu/giveUPG.


Tom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. His legacy will live

on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.