Thomas Lee Firchau

Tom, also known as Tommy and Firch, loved his family and made humor the heart of all his endeavors. Annette was the love of his life, and, adorably, they first met in the fourth grade. They began dating as young adults and built a beautiful life together. That life included a home, a long and successful career in technology and communications, children, a grandchild, and countless cherished family members and friends.

From an early age, Tom thrived in sports. He was a tri-sport athlete in high school, an exceptional wrestler, and a record-breaking pole vaulter. Throughout his life, he played basketball, football, baseball, and fast-pitch softball. For many years he was an avid golfer, was a regular at Diamond Oaks Golf Course, and was C-Flight Club Champion. Up until his passing, he walked daily, lifted weights, rode his bicycle, and golfed regularly. He even ran the famed Bay to Breakers race. Tom loved coaching his children's sports teams and made sure to support his granddaughter throughout her athletic journey.

Tom was someone people could count on when something needed to be fixed or figured out. Throughout his career, coworkers often turned to him for his knowledge, practical thinking, and willingness to help. At home, he enjoyed working with his hands and taking on projects of all sizes. He remodeled his first home and served as much of his own general contractor throughout the process. He had a way of making the whole neighborhood his own.

Tom was also an incredibly gifted woodworker throughout his life. He most enjoyed crafting furniture, boxes, and obelisks. His backyard garden was very well cared for and produced more tomatoes than he could eat. He played the piano, recently developed a passion for candid photography, and relished every opportunity to create handmade gifts for those he loved. Animals of all kinds held a special place in his heart, especially cats, which he loved naming after characters from his favorite science fiction movies and television shows.

Survived and loved by many, Tom will be especially missed by his wife, Annette; daughter, Candace; son-in-law, Kyle; and granddaughter, June; his son, Spencer, and daughter-in-law, Claudia; his loving mother, Colleen; his siblings, Kathy, John, and Kenny; and his vast extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom will be remembered for his humor, intelligence, artistic nature, honesty, and industrious spirit.

Celebration of life information is forthcoming as planned.