Tom’s Eulogy – posted at wife Linda’s request
Gandhi once said that “strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” As odd as it may seem, that quote defined our Tom.
Because he was indomitable when it came to all aspects of his life.
In fact, to even remotely keep pace with Tom meant that you were either Superman . . . or a mutant. He never stopped moving, always up to something. It was as if we mere mortals were watching a living flame, hopping from one thing to the next. It was awe-inspiring to watch, and we shook our heads in wonder.
He had a fierce tenacity with which he tackled life, love, work and . . . well, pleasure. And, if you spent a day at his beloved Duck Puddle campground with him, or even at a rowdy family get-together, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
He had an infectious, beautiful laugh that drew people to him and a downright devious mind. Everyone loved him and no one could resist that Conway charm. Of course, he also used that like a lure, dragging un-witting pals (or gullible family members) into some half-baked plan that would leave everyone roaring with laughter.
He loved his family passionately. And although he always claimed his wife Linda finally went out with him for his killer, baby blue Bonneville, she will deny it . . . most of the time.
She is, and always will be, his goddess. He would do anything for her and Linda never doubted his promises, which were always fulfilled.
They laughed together. Fished together. Camped together. Even crashed Vegas together. They met the mouse in Disney World and they watched the falls from Canada.
Their parties were amazing, their house flawless and their devotion to their children and each other endless.
We aspired to be him. To be them. And his sons have lived up to the man they called “Dad” as fathers, husbands and beloved friends.
Their love echoed like a physical hum though anyone who met them. Watching them – watching him – made us better people simply by his presence.
He lived an incredible life, never wasting a moment in idle stillness. For us, those he now watches from afar, we must learn from him, strive to be like him, and seize the world with his same conviction.
With his passing, we have become acutely aware that each day, each moment, is a gift. That life is not a dress rehearsal, but a single, glowing, unforgettable chance at the stage.
He has left a legacy of life, memories, and love that will carry on for him and for us. I leave you now with a quote from author Augustine Mandino, who summed up the truth of life so beautifully:
“I will greet this day with love in my heart. And how will I do this? Henceforth will I look on all things with love and be born again.
I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit.
I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars.
I will welcome happiness as it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul.
I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge.”
We love you Tom, but you already know that full well.
Beautifully said and a beautiful family. We are so sorry for your loss and sadness. We are thinking of you all.
Al and Sally Huff
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What a beautiful,inspiring and loving sentiment.
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