Walter Tomeny

Walter J Tomeny, 71, passed away quietly in his home with his wife and daughter by his side on May 10, 2019.  He bravely fought a malignant brain tumor which ultimately cost him his life. He was preceded in death by his parents Dr Philip J Tomeny Jr and Beverly Tomeny and is survived by his devoted spouse of 50 years, Cheryl (Cheri) Cahall Tomeny; loving daughter Tara Tomeny Hammer and spouse Bradly Clayton Hammer (like a son to him), cherished grandchildren Jonathan, Ella and Emma Hammer, who were the light of his life, and brothers Philip J Tomeny III and spouse Ann, and Douglas Tomeny and his dear Becky. Educated at Loyola University, he became a very successful entrepreneur in the Food and Beverage business at numerous locations for many years. He was trusted and true to his many dear friends who remain close to this day, some from as early as grammar school. Once his family was grown, he and his “mate” Cheri, embarked on a life of adventure, initially as Scuba Instructors and eventually as Cruise Directors/Hosts for Windstar Cruises.  In addition to experiencing the world, he was in a unique position to closely interact with people from many countries, with diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. During the 17 years of that exposure he was blessed to grow in compassion, cooperation, tolerance and respect for all people in spite of their differences.  Likewise, his natural Christian attributes of kindness, patience and understanding influenced his words and actions resulting in the admiration of those with whom he came in contact. Most of us would like to make a difference during our lifetimes and leave the world a better place because of our presence.  Well, the world is a better place since Walt was in it, he had a positive influence on the thousands of people that he met and worked with during his career at sea, he created happiness and was respected and well loved. He will be greatly missed but his light will never be extinguished. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Friday, May 17, 2019 at St. Pius X Catholic Church 6666 Spanish Fort Blvd. (Lake Vista Subdivision) New Orleans, Louisiana 70124 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation from 9:30 a.m. until service time. Interment and Committal Service will be held at Theodore Dendinger Cemetery Hwy 21 (just north of Madisonville City Limits) at 3:00 p.m. Madisonville, LA 70447. Those wishing to attend both ceremonies are welcome to do so. Donations to Catholic Charities or Second Harvest Food Bank may be sent in lieu of flowers.