Tom was born in Modesto, California on September 6, 1948, to Arnold and Helen Dickens. He graduated from Thomas Downey High School in 1966, went on to graduate from Modesto Junior College and then served in the Oakdale National Guard.
After high school, Tom met the love of his life, Sharlene. Upon completion of active duty from the Army Reserves, Tom and Sharlene married on October 3, 1969. They built a life together on the family farm and were blessed with three children Amy, Joey, and Kenny. Tom proudly followed in his father’s farming footsteps. Over the years, Dickens Ranches grew peaches, walnuts, and almonds along with various row crops.
In addition to being a full-time farmer, Tom was an active volunteer within the Empire Fire Department and the Empire Youth Baseball League. He served for many years as both a coach and board member for youth baseball. Tom took extraordinary pride in making sure the baseball fields were ready to go for each new season. Tom was also a member of the Waterford Sportsman’s Club, California Cling Peach Association, and a past member of the Stanislaus Swiss Club and Empire Lions.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years Sharlene, sons Joe (Amy) and Kenny (Lindsay). His grandchildren Kyle (Sarah), Chloe, Kelsey, Gracie, Ellie, Raegan, Morgan, and Layton. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Jerry and his daughter Amy Taylor. Tom also leaves behind many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.
Services will be held Friday, October 28th at Big Valley Grace Community Church, 4040 Tully Road, Modesto at 12:00pm. Interment following at Lakewood Cemetery, Hughson at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Community Hospice Foundation 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, California 95356 or Big Valley Grace Church 4040 Tully Road, Modesto, California 95356.
