Tom Hannegan truly cared about his community. As a lifetime St. Charles resident, business owner, volunteer, and for the last five years as State Representative, he set a life goal to improve his community in whatever ways he could, and to promote this great area to others.
One way he was able to highlight all he loved about his community was through publishing StreetScape Magazine for 13 years. He and his team also produced the Beyond the Best Business Awards to recognize local businesses, as well as several fashion shows throughout the years, which helped local charities.
The non-profit closest to his heart was the Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County, where he served on the Board of Directors. Karen Engler, CEO of the organization, had these words to describe Tom’s commitment. “Always a champion for the underdog, Tom worked to ensure our kids have access to great futures through mentoring, safe spaces, and academic support. Tom joined the board in honor of his mother and continued her legacy of commitment to our mission. We are saddened by the loss of our dear friend and Club champion.”
Tom attended Academy of the Sacred Heart and Duchesne High School before graduating from Lindenwood University with a master’s degree in Human Resources. He served in HR for Station Casino (now Ameristar) before joining his family’s business, Hannegan Real Estate and Construction, prior to starting the Magazine.
Tom met his life partner, Scott Mell, in 2013, and he eventually joined Tom in the publishing business. They loved to travel; their biggest adventure being an African safari. Scott says he will always highlight and remember the good times.
The co-publisher of St. Charles County Lifestyle, Kelley Lamm-Montgomery, worked with Tom on StreetScape for a time and has fond memories as well.
"15 years ago, I was pulled into Tom's office by Karen Hoffman who said I must meet Tom Hannegan! I knew at that moment Tom was a one-of-a-kind gem,” she recalls.
“It was true love…well maybe not the one of fairy tales and romance…but one of laughter and dedication as true friends in business and life. I will always cherish my time knowing Tom and will dearly miss him. He was dedicated to his city, bringing new things to St. Charles no one else did. I am a better person knowing him and all the opportunities he shared with me."
I, too, was very close to Tom, as we worked on StreetScape Magazine together for 11 years. He was funny, quirky, and creative, with big ideas. No one could tell him something couldn’t be done. We can continually be inspired by his tenacity, originality, and true dedication to all he cared about, and all those he cared for. His smile will always be remembered.
