Thomas Milton Barricklow

Thomas Milton Barricklow, 78, died Friday, January 20, 2017 at Sunrise Assisted Living in Boulder.He leaves his wife of 42 years, Elizabeth (Kip) Barricklow; his three daughters Karine Calhoun, Anne Starke and Catherine Barricklow; his two brothers Douglas Barricklow and Ted Barricklow; and two grandchildren, Ariyanna and Ian Calhoun.Tom was born in Mangum, Oklahoma on March 20, 1938 to Roy and Eva Dale (Powers) Barricklow. The family later relocated to Pacoima, California - a move that was part of the dust bowl migration from the plains to California.In his early years, Tom, along with his brothers, helped support his family during lean times with a newspaper route. After graduating from San Fernando High School, he attended California State University, Northridge, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Political Science. He met his first wife, Lola Dell, working at the library at UCLA, and they were married in 1961. His first two daughters, Karine and Anne, were born to Tom and Lola. He married his second wife, Elizabeth Kip, in 1975, and his third daughter Catherine was born in 1982.Tom worked for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power for 32 years as an electrician and dispatcher. He retired when the family moved to Boulder, CO in 1992. In the late 1990's, in order to support the founding years of Tara Performing Arts High School, he returned to work, first for McGuckin's and then at Via Transport. Later, he taught history and civics at Tara, two of his areas of expertise.Tom was totally devoted to his family. He was a nurturing, loving father. He enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, and attending cultural events. He was happiest when telling his stories. Tom was a skilled punster, and had a particular brand of humor which created much merriment and good cheer in any company. Tom had a mind for facts, and always won at Trivial Pursuit. He loved teaching and was passionate about his subjects.A funeral service was held January 24th at the Tara campus. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Tom Barricklow History Fund at Tara Performing Arts High School. http://www.tarahighschool.org/support_tara/. Visit www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com to share condolences.