Tom decided on a firefighting career in college and wildland fires held a special interest for him. He was the consummate fireman, whether in the station or on the scene. Tom was a cherished husband, father, brother and son who devoted himself to his family, faith and community. He dedicated himself to the fire service and his brother and sister firefighters until his death at age 36 from jobrelated kidney cancer. Subsequently, a park, a benevolent foundation, and a street on the campus of Arrowhead Regional Medical Center were named after him.