Longtime 'Invaluable' Upper Providence Public Servant Dies

UPPER PROVIDENCE, PA — A longtime Upper Providence public servant, described by friends and coworkers as an "invaluable" part of the township, has died.

Thomas F. Broadbelt, the director of the township's public works, was 62. He had been in his current position since 1999, and has served the township in some capacity for more than 30 years, since 1994.

"He was an invaluable member of the UPT team, and his dedication, hard work and kind spirit will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him," the township said in a statement. "Tom Broadbelt was a consummate professional in all he did for UPT. In his work with staff and volunteers, he brought humor, empathy and grace to all his duties. He will be sorely missed by everyone who works or volunteers in Upper Providence Township."

Broadbelt had a Class A operator license in both sewer and water treatment, and a certification in storm water inspection, the township said. He was also a member of the township's emergency management team and served during numerous crisis situations.

"I am very sad to read this," Pennsylvania State Rep. Joe Webster shared. "Tom brought his extensive knowledge and professionalism to everything he did, and I enjoyed working with him. My condolences to his family and his coworkers during this difficult time."

A celebration of life will be held in the spring, his family said.