Thomas Lee Thomas

Thomas L. Thomas died unexpectedly on March 3 of heart failure.

Tom was born May 28, 1943, in Seattle, to Joseph and Elizabeth (Jaeger) Thomas and moved to Ritzville in 1953.

He graduated from Ritzville High School in 1961 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from Central Washington University in 1966.

After college, Tom worked at high school Aquatic programs in Hoquiam, Washington; and locally at Gresham, Corvallis and Reynolds school districts.

Tom met Cathy Kephart-Struble in 1993 and they shared 19 wonderful years of marriage together.

He loved working in the yard and took great pride in it. He loved swimming, gardening, boating, trips to Hawaii and spending time with his family and friends.

His two great-grandchildren brought much joy to his life. He was also an avid Oregon Ducks fan.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy; children, Kevin (Alicia), Shannon (Michael), Steve; siblings, Jim (Barbara) and Laura; two grandchildren, Kelsey and Jesse; two great-grandchildren, Noah and Cameron; nephew Tyler (Heidi) and great nieces Annika and Aubrey.

Tom leaving us so suddenly has left a large hole in our hearts. He will be greatly missed. He was so loved.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 18, at 11 a.m. at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home.

A reception will follow at the Kelly Creek Sports Bar at the Gresham Golf Course, 2155 NE Division Street., Gresham, Oregon.

Because he was such a Oregon Ducks fan and loved Hawaii, the wearing of Oregon Duck colors or Hawaiian clothing would be very acceptable for Tom’s service.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to: Mt. Hood Aquatics/Tom Thomas Memorial, P.O. Box 129, Gresham, OR 97330, or to the charity of your choice.