A third generation, licensed funeral director, Thomas O. Hornstein started his career as the sales manager for the Allegheny Cemetery, eventually becoming the first General Manager. He retired in 1989, receiving a relatively generous pension plan, part of which he used to create his fund at The Pittsburgh Foundation.
During his lifetime, Hornstein used the fund to give to charitable causes that he had an interest in. Following his death in 2013, his fund continues to honor his wishes and provide funds for organizations Hornstein supported.
Hornstein was a WW II United States Marine Corps veteran, an Elder in Sharon Community Presbyterian Church, a trustee of The Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, a trustee of The Landmarks Financial Corporation, a 32nd degree Mason and a Knight Templar. He was also a longtime member of the Syria Shrine, American Legion and Senior Men’s Club. Hornstein was a former commissioner of Hopewell Twp. and a former director of Ambridge Savings and Loan.
In his field, Hornstein was elected twice as president of the Cemetery Association of Pennsylvania, served as vice-president of the International Cemetery and Funeral Association and as president of the Cremation Association of North America. He was also a past president and honorary member of the Western Pennsylvania Cemetery Association.