He was the middle of 11 children. Tom is survived by his two sisters, Anita Bordner and Rita Noles. Tom married Judy in 1960 and they celebrated 64 years together.
Tom's children Tom Jr and Pamela brought 5 delightful children into his life; Arabella, Cory, Kevin, Mindy and Matthew. Tom had 3 great Grandchildren, Connor, Franklin and Vivian with one expected soon.
Tom's life was all about problem solving. He worked as a Millwright and was especially proud of his time at NASA.
Adventure was an important part of Tom's life. He loved fast cars, boats and motorcycles. Tom was a hunter and fisherman. He loved to travel and explore new places. Tom and Judy crossed the US many times, crossed Canada, drove the ALCan to Alaska, visited Mexico, Scotland and Ireland and both coasts of Australia.
Tom's generosity to friends and family was legendary. He bought and built homes. Remodeled bathrooms and basements, installed windows and rewired houses. Tom helped to support nieces and nephews and grandchildren when they needed a start.
Tom's love of learning was passed on to all of his children by reading, exploring new techniques and encouraging education. Tom read the newspaper everyday and watched several news channels to analyze viewpoints.
Tom retired from OHSU. Tom spent the last 10 years of life caring for Judy as she declined with dementia. He could be seen taking her on daily drives, out to lunch and visiting family. Tom and Judy's remains will be spread together at Elk Camp in the Fall.
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