Thomas A. Woodard Jr.

Thomas Andrew Woodard Jr. passed away on October 27, 2010 surrounded by the love of his family. Tom was born on August 27, 1954 in Vermont, and spent most of his childhood there. In 2003, he moved to California, but his heart was always in Vermont.

In 1971, Tom was injured in a motorcycle accident that left him a paraplegic. Over the past 39 years, Tom's courage, spirit, and determination have touched many people. Over the years, he tried many times to complete his education, however, various health issues always got in the way of his goal. Finally, in December 2006, he graduated magna cum laude from De Anza College in Cupertino, CA, with an AA Degree. He was in the process of transferring to San Jose State University to complete his Bachelor's Degree, when he was diagnosed with cancer. Tom underwent many treatments and always remained positive in his fight. He inspired many people with his determination and courage in spite of the setbacks he encountered.

Tom worked for IBM in Essex Jct., VT, and in San Jose, CA in the late 1970's. Prior to moving to California, he worked for the town of Underhill Center as an auditor. Tom loved the outdoors, and he enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting. He loved dogs, and had several over the years. Tom enjoyed watching the Giants play baseball. In 2009, his family met in Morgan Hill for a family reunion, and he enjoyed spending time with his family. He had a deep appreciation for his family and loved them very much.

Tom fought countless health battles with dignity and determination. He was an inspiration to those who were fortunate enough to get to know him.

Tom leaves his mother, Janice Woodard of Essex Jct., VT; his father and his wife, Thomas A. and Ruth Woodard; his brother and sister-in-law, Brian and Gloria Woodard of Nanticoke, PA; his sisters, Marilyn Chong of Morgan Hill, CA and Robin Hee of Gilroy, CA; his sister and brother-in-law, Carolyn and Duane Arnold of Gulf Breeze, FL; nieces and nephews, Stacy (Hee) and Dave Cantu and sons, Aiden and Evan, Erica Chong, Nicole Hee, Nick, Emily, and Jayme Arnold.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors at St. Louise Regional Hospital, who provided compassionate care to Tom and his family in his final days.

A Memorial Service will be held in the spring in Vermont. Donations can be made in his honor to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, 636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078; or the German Shepherd Rescue of New England---Mo-Bear Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 299, Wayland, MA 01778.