Thomas D. McMahan 1940-2019
On July 11, 2019 Placer Land Trust (PLT) lost a long-time supporter and friend. Tom McMahan was a devoted volunteer for PLT, serving on the board of directors for over 12 years. Tom greatly valued our land in Placer County, and in his words felt, “We must take steps today to preserve scenic, agricultural and open space lands for present and future generations.”
It was an honor to work with Tom during his 25-year career with the Placer County Planning Department. But more important, Tom was a close friend for the 46 years that I knew him. He was truly a good man and cared deeply about his family, friends, and the Placer County community. Tom was an excellent judge of character and unabashedly supported those causes that he believed were important to everyone in the region.
Tom’s enjoyment of the outdoors led him to explore the canyons, rivers, and mountains of Placer County and beyond. And he shared these passions with others. PLT staff often received emails from Tom with new ideas of people he thought would identify with PLT’s mission, and often brought these friends to PLT events. He wanted everyone to care for the land as much as he did. Tom also had high expectations, often sharing his feedback and expertise, in an effort to make PLT the best it could be. Staff valued his input, knowing that it always came from a place of love and respect.
Tom said that he “supported PLT because they protect open space, and they know how to get things done.” Well, we think Tom was also a man who was willing to roll up his sleeves to get things done, and set an example for others in doing so. A great example was the decision that he and his wife, Nancy, made to join PLT’s Forever Society by leaving a gift that would last beyond their lifetimes. “Protecting open space, and particularly agricultural land, from urban encroachment has always been one of my highest professional and personal priorities. Placer County contains among the greatest geographical diversity of any area of the state, and I wish to contribute to the effort to preserve that richness for current and future generations.”
Tom will be missed by all of us that knew him, and his support will not be forgotten. His friendship will be remembered always. Tom, we hope you rest in peace knowing you have made a difference to so many people in so many ways, and that your vision of protecting Placer County’s unique rural way of life and natural open spaces forever will live on, thanks to your generosity.
With much love and respect,
Fred Yeager
Board President
Placer Land Trust
