Wow....i used to work with Tom. Tom and i didn't see eye to eye on much, and unfortunately there became tension between us and we became disconnected. I know he loved his Seahawks and i my 49ers, and i enjoyed the sports trash talking with him. Ill never forget when he came to me when the first found out about his cancer. Anything i could do to help was done, and in those few months i developed an admiration for him. He had his problems, but we all do, and there was alot i could/should have learned from him. Almost a short term father figure to me. I wish Tom and I could have spoke before his passing. Throughout our differences and my frustrations with him, i will from now on only think of the good with him. I love and miss you Tom. May you be at peace wherever you are. Im sorry.
My wife and I are so sorry to learn of Tom’s passing. I’ve known Tom since the fall of 2000 when he rented my upstairs. He was the quietest and most respectful tenant I ever had. We soon became friends. He was knowledgeable about a number of things from the correct way to paint a home to anything to do with world history. I’ve been in education for over 30 years and Tom always struck me as someone who would’ve thrived in that environment. But he wasn’t as single focused, preferring to do a variety of work from being “Beer Man” at Portland Trailblazer games and Seattle Seahawks games to being a poker/blackjack dealer for social functions. Both jobs had a social element to them that he enjoyed. Some 11 years ago, as a wedding gift to my wife and me, Tom set up his card table at my reception, which was a big hit. Tom was a good guy, one of the most genuine and unassuming people you could meet. He was a hard worker but did not crave material possessions. In a world of seemingly one too many self absorbed pretentious people Tom was refreshingly opposite. He chose a more humble and simple life. It did not surprise me to learn that he faced his last days with courage. Back in the fall I texted him a link to the 1968 Tigers game 7 World Series victory. He texted back that he always loved that team. I do know that he also loved the days when he helped raise his daughter. He spoke of them fondly. I’m so happy the two were able to connect before his passing and that he was able to learn that he was a grandpa. My wife and I, as well as our neighbors, are sorry we didn’t learn sooner about Tom. Sadly the pandemic has curtailed much of our otherwise usual social interactions and It had been a number of months since I stopped in to visit Tom or vice versa. Our condolences to Tom’s family. We will miss him.
Thank you Brother, for allowing me to be by your side during your final days. I learned a great deal from you. May I display your courage when my time arrives.