Tom would have been encouraged by the number of demonstrations for racial justice this year. I miss his political commentary now more than ever. He had such a good ability to soothe tension with humor if a discussion with an opposing voice became heated. We miss him this birthday.

Tom would have made a wonderful grandpa. Make sure the grandchild on the way knows about him.

Tom would have been 62 today and considering retiring, since most of his siblings have this year. He would have been working on getting the yard cleaned up after the huge hail storm that hit Blair. I am grateful for the way he planted so many bushes, trees and flowers. They will come back. He will never leave my heart.

The last 4 years have gone by fast and a lot has happened in the world, especially in politics. I often think of you often when thinking about the political mess we are in right now. I had fun yesterday help Patti cleanup after the hail storm. I thought about you as I was doing it knowing how much you loved doing that kind of work! I miss you.

Tom was such a good conversationalist. He could talk about almost any subject. Of course, his favorite topic was politics. At times I wonder what he would have said about the news event of the day, but in general, I know, due to his liberal viewpoints. It is true that the departed stay in your heart, and Tom stays in our hearts and minds.

Tom was an enthusiastic vacation planner and enjoyed each and every trip. When I've asked Erik and Sonja where they most feel their dad's presence, they talk about the outdoors near where they live. What a gift he gave them! They can carry him with them wherever they are.

Tom would have been 60 today. Like the song "Forever Young," he'll always be 58 to me. Today I want to celebrate the Fun Tom. I loved that childlike, spontaneous part of him. He would throw snowballs at me, tease, laugh, go belly boarding with the kids in the ocean, and sneak up on me and say, "BOO!" Tom, you are missed and loved. Thanks for teaching us the importance of having fun.