Thomas Radford

Tom was born Sept 8, 1942 in Hopewell Virginia to Hulda Schaffer Radford and Frank Phillip Radford. Hulda followed her husband to Camp Lee, Virginia before he went overseas to Italy during WW ll. Hulda and Tom lived with Harry and Ann Radford in Haxtun, CO until Frank’s honorable discharge and return. The family then moved to Sterling, CO where Frank and his brother, Harry Jr., bought Whyman Funeral Home. Frank purchased his brother’s share in 1948.

Tom attended Sterling schools and graduated from Sterling High School in 1960. Tom graduated from the University of Colorado with a B.A. and the University of Northern Colorado with a M.A. He was also a licensed funeral director and embalmer.

Tom and his wife Carol Henkenius were married June 6, 1970 at All Souls Catholic Church in Englewood, CO. They lived in Littleton CO until present. Tom taught in Denver Public Schools as a social studies teacher and work experience coordinator. He retired from Abraham Lincoln high school after 31 years of service. He was a member of the Denver Teacher’s Classroom Teachers Association, Colorado Education Association, and National Education Association.

Tom enjoyed camping, water skiing, traveling, and drag racing his ‘57 Chevy. He, Carol, and kids spent many summers at Lake McConaughy in Nebraska. They also enjoyed trips to Grand Lake, Buena Vista, and Lake City. Many trips were made to visit Carol’s family in North Dakota. They also visited Mexico, Canada, and Hawaii.

Family was special to Tom and holidays were a joy. Tom was friendly to all and valued his friends. His Grandchildren were a treasured gift.

Tom is survived by his wife, Carol. Two sons, Mark Radford and Chris Radford. One daughter, Andrea Radford LeGear and her husband, Hunter. Four granddaughters, Megan, Ella, Chloe and Abby and one grandson, Shaun.

Gifts or memorials should be made to the Denver Teacher’s Club, 990 Glencoe St. Denver, CO 80220-4468.

A memorial service for Thomas will be held Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary & Cemetery, 6601 South Colorado Blvd, Centennial, CO 80121, followed by a reception from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerchapelhill.com for the Radford family.