TOM C. February 23, 1933 - July 16, 2011 Words cannot convey how profoundly Tom C. is missed as we mark one year since his passing. Each milestone event the last 12 months renewed pangs of grief, yet provided opportunities to reminisce about his impact on all our lives. Tom was married to his true love, Jean, for 56 years. They exemplified commitment and their devotion to each other continues to be an inspiration. He raised his children by setting examples of strength, faith, bravery and unconditional love. His compassionate nature, magnetic personality, and great sense of humor made people want to be part of his world! Tom's professional career began in the NM National Guard, where he rose through enlisted ranks to retire as Chief Warrant Officer. He worked as an electronics technician at Sandia National Labs during the 50s - 60s, and was appointed to the Federal Advisory Committee on Merit System Standards in 1967. Governor David Cargo asked him to serve as one of five members of the State Personnel Board 1968 - 1973. Tom was involved for many years in local planning and coordinating political activities, including serving as treasurer for the Jack Redman for Congress campaign in the 1960s. He owned and operated several businesses, including Duke's Cave Bar & Lounge, Tommy's Tower, Larry's Package Liquor, Silver Dollar Pawn Shop and Los Arcos Restaurant, and was a board member of the NM Liquor Retail Dealers Assoc. In 1984, Tom was manager of Cultural Villages for NM State Fair. He also served as a policy analyst for the City of Albuq. Health/Wellness/Safety Programs 1989 - 90. Prior to retirement, Tom was Executive Director at La Pasada Alternative House, Inc. Retirement afforded Tom an opportunity to explore hobbies including travel, golf, listening to all genres of music, and watching sports...especially NFL football! He was an active member of Our Lady of Assumption Parish, and served as a Lector for many years. Although his cancer diagnosis was devastating, Tom handled it with dignity, each day praying for strength to accept God's will as he counted his abundant blessings. It was quite an experience to witness the fruits of his cultivated friendships, manifested in expressions of admiration most men will never encounter. His close family of his wife, Jean, seven children and their spouses, ten grandchildren and their spouses, two great-grandchildren, four sisters, a brother-in-law, several nieces, nephews and cousins, surrounded him throughout his illness. He sincerely appreciated the TLC, and was humbled by the outpouring of love. As Tom's eloquent way with words was well recognized, he was often called upon to speak at special occasions. His vast collection of quotes included the following, which articulates well, his attitude: Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally wornout, and proclaiming, "Wow, what a ride"!
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