Donald Philip Thom, a 4th generation Californian, was born in 1928 in San Francisco, the first child of Andrew and Mary Thom. The family moved to San Carlos in 1939 where he attended Central School. A 1946 graduate of Sequoia High School, he also attended San Jose State College. He met Jocelyn Bauer on a blind date and the couple celebrated 63 years of marriage in August of 2013.
A strong leader, Don was manager and eventually owner of Bruce Bauer Lumber & Supply in San Carlos and Mountain View. Cultivating and solidifying the community-based roots of the brand that Bruce Bauer himself established, Don defined stewardship for what is now a fourth generation, local family business. He was an active member of the San Carlos Rotary Club. Don graced the earth with his kindness and love. The consummate gentleman; Don always greeted you with a smile and trademark firm handshake, listened to what you had to say, and held the door for you whether he knew you or not.
An avid outdoorsman who fished, hunted and camped; a prolific crossword-solver and a jigsaw puzzler, he could also pitch a mean game of horseshoes. Don was a loyal friend, and loving companion who leaves a legacy that is admired by all who knew him. When not hard at work on projects, Don loved adventures—he and Jocelyn traveled the world on tours and explored California on up into Alaska by motorhome. Dearest to him were Memorial Park, the Bauer family cabin on the Oregon Coast where he and Jocelyn honeymooned, and many summers spent on the south shore of Maui including the family reunion they hosted on their 50th anniversary.
Don leaves behind his wife Jocelyn, and three sons: Douglas (Susan), David (Chris) and Darryl (Lori). He was Grandpa to: Adam Krusi-Thom (Jillian), Mike, Nick & Dan Nardini, Brian, Kelly and Joel Thom and Great Grandpa to Madison & Emma Nardini. Also survived by siblings: Phylis Agnelli (Lou), Doug Thom (Libbie), Gini Alexander (Brian), sister-in-law Barbara Bauer and Don's childhood friend of 80 years, James Old, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Don’s family and friends celebrate this great man and his enduring spirit.
A Public Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 22, 1:30 PM, Epiphany Episcopal Church, 1839 Arroyo Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070
Donations may be made in Don's memory to the Alzheimer's Association: www.Alz.org