Tommy Garten was part of an ownership group that purchased the Covington Lumberjacks in 2009 and he and his sons, Dizzy and Matt, assumed full ownership in 2011.
A successful businessman in Covington for decades, Tommy supported all local sports and especially the Lumberjacks, making it his mission to keep Valley League Baseball in his city. He was part of the group that made Jacks’ baseball free to fans, giving everyone the opportunity to watch summer college baseball.
He and his wife, Mary Beth, also served as a host family to many players and coaches over the years.
Under the ownership of the Gartens, the Lumberjacks won the Valley League Championship in 2011.
Tommy also served the VBL as an executive board member until his death on January 24, 2024.