Dick F. Tomlinson

Dick was born on February 2, 1935, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to George and Eva Tomlinson. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1953 and went on to attend Michigan State University, earning his degree in 1957. After college, he proudly served two years in the United States Army, including time performing with the U.S. Army Band. Music remained a lifelong passion, as he played the trombone in both his high school and college bands and marched in the 1954 Rose Bowl Parade.

Dick built a long and dedicated career in sales, working for Bowman and Coles Clothing before retiring from Redwood & Ross. Even in retirement, he remained active, working part-time at the Kellogg Museum and as a food taster for Kellogg’s in Battle Creek.

For the past ten years, Dick made his home in Maricopa, Arizona, with his beloved wife, Patricia “Patty” Tomlinson.

Dick was a gentle and loving soul whose quiet strength defined his life. Though he faced hardships, he met the world with a warm smile and steady kindness that made everyone feel welcome and cared for. He had a gift for forming friendships wherever he went and leaves behind a legacy of warmth, resilience and compassion.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures; cooking meals for those he loved, fishing and hunting rabbits with his beagles in his younger years and later spending time with his dogs; Molly, Teddy and Bailey. He especially cherished time with family, from backyard barbecues to pancake breakfasts and ice cream outings. He adored his grandchildren and took great pride in his blended family.

Dick is survived by his wife, Patricia Tomlinson; his sister, Dona Basso; his sons, David Tomlinson and Matthew Tomlinson; his stepchildren, John Williams, Todd (Erica) Williams and Kristina Bovey; his beloved grandchildren; Mercedes Himor, Madison Williams, Thomas Williams, Liliana (Cary) Parkes, Angelina Williams, Ashton Williams, Alexis Williams, Christian Williams, Hudson Williams, Kaitlyn Bovey and Logan Bovey and one great-granddaughter; Penelope Rose.

He was deeply loved by his family. In his final moments, he was surrounded by that love, with a devoted daughter-in-law by his side, holding his hand and offering prayers as he passed. His family finds comfort in knowing he was not alone and that he understood how deeply he was loved.

While his passing leaves a profound emptiness, his family takes peace in knowing he is no longer suffering. His strong faith was an important part of his life and there is comfort in believing he is now at rest in God’s presence.

Dick has been laid to rest at the Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Marana, Arizona. A memorial service will be held this summer.

He will be missed beyond words, but his love, kindness and memory will live on in all who knew him.