Tom referred to jeans as "dungarees".
When eating at restaurants he would ask about the special/soup of the day, listen intently as the waitperson provided the information, and then ask what they recommended, always listening intently. He would thoughtfully ponder, then order the same thing he always did (which was none of the several options deliciously described)...

On business road trips, (3-4 hours in a car) he would talk the whole time. As I grew to know him I found out it was a measured step to stay awake.

Tom spoke so lovingly of Molly.  "Molly and I shared a bowl of icecream last night" "Molly and I went for a walk last yesterday", Molly this and Molly that...  Later, I was surprised to learn his wife's name was Patty, or Scooter as he affectionately called her.

Meticulously neat and organized,  hugely patient, enjoyed a good debate and would often incite a good debate. Maddening, sometimes moody, boundless energy, softball, golf, batting cages, sports enthusiast, avid reader, wine connoisseur, teacher, mentor, counselor, practical joke player, competitor.

Tom was steeped in tradition, organizing annual Thanksgiving potlucks, bagel Friday, summer bar b que, staff appreciation lunches, and Christmas/holiday party, just to name a few.   He was very proud of his son's and their service to our country, devoted to his wife Patty/Scooter, their children and grandchildren and to Molly-the-dog.

Thomas loved his country and God.   Tom was my boss, my friend, a good man, full of life and optimism and who leaves us far too soon.  
I will miss him.   Patty, the boys, grandkids and Molly are all in my prayers.   Kathy