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Tom Dillon Obituary

Tom Dillon, a long-time Valley sportscaster who was considered the voice of Arizona State University, died Tuesday, Dec. 2 in Phoenix. He was 65.

Published by The Arizona Republic from Dec. 2 to Dec. 7, 2008.
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Memories and Condolences
for Tom Dillon

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We just finished listening to the final ASU Baseball game at Packard Stadium tonight and it made me think of Tom Dillon. We won tonight and it made me think of all those ASU games I heard Tom call on the radio. He was to me the best ASU ever had calling our games-especially football and baseball. I still have many of those games of that magical 96 season he called on cassette tape. I also had the good fortune of being interviewed by Tom at an ASU Baseball Camp that my Son participated in. I was in awe just talking to him and I still remember that interview that aired during an ASU USC Baseball game that same day on 620-we won that game too. I sure miss him calling all of our games and I will never forget the time he made me feel so good when he interviewed me. I still also remember his patented lines of "He's going, he's going, he scores!" or "You can turn out the lights my friend, this game is over." The good news is that Tom is in heaven having the time of his life serving our Good Lord. We still miss you and always will and Good Lord willing will see you again someday in Heaven. Maybe you can interview me again up there too! You are the best ASU play by play guy ever and thank you for being so kind to me when I got a chance to meet you.

Lenny Avalos

May 21, 2014

fabulous basketball play by play. we almost got together, him on guitar/sing, me piano. he liked my description of his job as eye-mouth coordination. this was in 1980, he told me the funniest joke as of today, still. 2013. thx tom. c u soon.

paul richardson

December 25, 2013

You are loved and missed everyday.

Shari Blank

December 1, 2013

My twin brother and I graduated with Tom at Cathedral(1961). We also played baseball with Tom. Mr. Dillon(Tom's dad) was a great guy. Tom could really rifle the ball to second base because he had a great arm as a catcher. Gilbert and I will miss him and we often think of him.

George and Gilbert Delgado(the cuates).

George Delgado

July 31, 2009

Tom was one of the great guys in radio, as a sportscaster and as a person. I had the honor of working with Tom for his last 10 years at KTAR. From his call of an ASU baseball blowout ("here we are at the boat races, its 16-2 Devils over USC in the 4th inning) to the "he's going, he's going HE SCORES", he made even the most mundane exciting to listen to.
I've been out of the biz for a couple of years, so I only found out today that Tom had passed.
My condolences to Bonnie and the family

Robert Valencia

January 19, 2009

I, too, was saddened by Tom's passing. I always enjoyed listening to his marvelous voice during broadcasts. It upset me when he was taken off of the mainstream Phoenix sports he covered. He is missed by us all.

Dave Kitchener

December 25, 2008

My deepest condolences to Tom Dillon's family. I met Tom at Cathedral High School in El Paso my Freshman year (1959). He was the lead soloist for the Irishaire Choir under Mr. G, the Director. He was a born leader and encouraged me to try out for choir and school plays. From the 1961 CHS Chaparral yearbook: Thomas Anthony Dillon, born Kansas City, Kansas; Scholastic letter 9,10; Class secretary 9,10; yearbook staff 9,10,11; Shamrock newspaper staff 9,10,11,12;Class play 10;Irishaire Choir 11,12;Talent show 12; Baseball 9,10; School reporter.
A true Christian Brothers boy!

Luis M Marquez

December 11, 2008

Dear Bonnie and Family,

We were deeply saddened to hear of Tom's passing. We really enjoyed working with him during Oakland A's Spring Training -- he was always so kind, with such a fun spirit, when he's bound into our office to collect the PA book for that day's game. I also remember talking to him about his flights up north. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time...

Carrie & David Salow

December 9, 2008

We only met Tom briefly with Andre but know of his legacy and that he was a great man. Our prayers are with you and your family in this time of loss.

Ryan and Traci Beaverson

December 9, 2008

Dear Bonnie...

I gasped when I saw Tom's picture on the evening news! Please know my memory of him and being at your wedding will never dim. Keep well and stay strong, Tom would want it that way!

Arthur Almassy

December 7, 2008

We always looked forward to hearing Tom's announcing of the Sports. Marty and Carolyn Benton, Mesa, AZ

Marty and Carolyn Benton

December 6, 2008

Simply The Best,
Listened to Tom for all of his broadcasting years. I remember the Saturday night A.S.U games on one coast, and the Sunday morning Cards games on the other. I don.t know how he did it, but he was truly a proffessional. Grew up listening since I was a boy, you will be missed.

Mark Messner

December 6, 2008

Dear Bonnie and Family,

i share in your grief. I pray you have friends and family to comfort and support you in the days ahead. My Richard died on November 21. He had been in the hospital for six weeks with infections following surgery. Rich often talked about Tom's visit to the Indy 500, and how exciting it was for us to hear Tom broadcast from a phone in our dining room, and mention our names! I know your children will surround you with love. Trust that Tom is in heaven and waiting for you there.

Lynnette Simmons
Indianapolis, IN.

Lynnette Simmons

December 6, 2008

Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to the family of Tom Dillion. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss.

Ray & Nell Cuellar

December 6, 2008

Dear Cousin Bonnie,
We are so sad to hear this news and have you in our prayers daily. May God's peace which passes all human understanding keep your heart and mind safe in Christ Jesus.
We love you and send our deepest sympathy to you and the whole family.
Tom and Pat in Colorado

Patricia Grisbaum

December 6, 2008

Sun Devil sports was never the same when Tom Dillon (the voice) quit doing the radio announcing (especially football and baseball) I would hope the ASU athletic department would choose to honor Tom in some fashion. If there is a place in heaven for sportcasters Tom will fill the position.

Ed Carter

December 5, 2008

I first listened to Tom Dillon when I was in grade school ('70's). We huddled around the radio in Globe on Saturdays to hear Tom how the Devils were running, tackling, throwing, shooting the ball, batting, stopping the opponent and of course Scoring! We became endeared to the Devils, thanks to Tom. If the Devils lost, it was okay because Tom reported it like it happened and you knew the next game was a new chance. Tom conveyed the excitement of the possibility of each game, he described the fans, the weather, the coach's expressions, the shadows in Sun Devil stadium, the fans and the jubilation of a score, interception or defensive stop. When Tom said "Frank Kush" or "John Mistler" or "Mike Pagel", those people became real and they were as real as Tom was. The Dodgers have Vin Scully. The Devil family will always have and remember Tom Dillon. Bye Mr. Dillon and thank you so much

Bobby Rivera

December 5, 2008

I was stunned, as many of us were to hear of this sad loss. He was the Voice of the Sun Devils for most of my life. I grew up knowing no one else. I stopped listening to the games when he left. I may not have known him personally, but I will dearly miss him. My love and prayers for you all!

Katherine Aguire

December 5, 2008

Bonnie,,
I am so sorry to hear about Tom. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Memories of Tom will keep him close to you in spirit and thought and in your heart forever. We will always remember how he got Angel in the car so we could begin our trek to Oregon.

Kathy Quinn

December 5, 2008

I'll remember Tom Dillon for his ability to create word pictures with his unique play by play style that blended the excitement of Tom "the sports fan" and Tom the "complete broadcast professional", who always "got it right"! His legacy will live on in the many lives that Tom helped along the way.

Steve Glueck

December 5, 2008

Dear Bonnie and family,
Our hearts go out to you for the loss of you dear husband, father, and grandfather. We hope you can cherish all the great memories and celebrate a life well lived. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Carol and Fred Marciano

Carol Marciano

December 5, 2008

Bonnie and Family,
You and Tom both are such wonderful people. Our prayers are with you. Tom will truly be missed in our lives.

Dr Johnson and Staff

December 5, 2008

I will never forget the fun we had in choir at Corpus Christi or the rehearsals. What a time we all had. I always think of you when I see my rosary you brought back from Rome, blessed by The Pope no less. I will never for get your voice and humor. May your family find peace in knowing that you are up there directing and singing your heart out in heaven. We can hear you down here!

Patty Soffel

December 5, 2008

as a kid growing up, just listening to
Tom doing games, would give me chills, he was the most awesome broadcaster ever!

Carrie Ocvirek

December 5, 2008

Tom, you will be missed. I was so looking forward to hearing those words again "He scores" from my favorite asu sportcaster. my prayers and thoughts for your family.

pat asu fan

December 4, 2008

My condolences to the family of a great man and the best play-by-play broadcaster New Mexico State University ever had. Tom, you once told me your dream broadcast would be the play-by-play for the Dallas Cowboys.....I'm sure you're up in heaven now fulfilling that dream. Thanks for giving me my knickname (Hammerin' Hal). I love you.

Hal Robinson former NMSU Aggie

December 4, 2008

God bless you Tom.You were simply the best sports voice I have ever come across. A true professional and
and one of the great story tellers of all time (on & off the air). I'll miss you my friend .

Tom Petersen

December 4, 2008

My condolences to Mr. Dillon's entire family. I will always refer to Mr. Dillon's voice as the voice of ASU athletics.

Jim Obenour

December 4, 2008

So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My condolences to Bonnie and his family. I was used to Hall of Fame broadcasters in the world of hockey.When I arrived in Phoenix I quickly came across a couple of more Hall of Famers. Al McCoy and Mr. Dillon.My only regret was not meeting him personally, but the "voice" I shall never forget. A true gentleman taken far too early. Rest in peace sir.
Don Caley( Scottsdale, Az. )

Don Caley

December 4, 2008

My condolences to the Dillon family. Being an avid Sun Devil fan, Tom kept me connected to the Devils for over 20 years. He was truly the best. I really loved the fall when we would get a double dose of Tom doing the Devils and Cards on the same weekend. He was always so gracious on the few occasions we met. Thanks for all the great memories!

Jay Jansen

December 4, 2008

Bonnie and Family,

I am truly sorry for your loss.

Mike Langs

December 4, 2008

When I listen to ASU games on the radio I still think of Tom and that magic voice.
I also remember the game where ASU beat Nebraska. It was the day of my wedding and we were at our reception in Tucson. Some of my friends and myself snuck out to listen to Tom and got caught. My wife was very understanding because I was listening to it on the radio and not the TV. What a memory that I will cherish.
Thanks Tom

Jim

December 4, 2008

Tom Dillon you are a class act. Your calling of all ASU games especially baseball was the best. Your calling of the AZ Cardinal’s games will always be legendary. You made me feel like I was there. It is hard to pick a favorite but I think it has to be when Cardinal’s player Bernard Wilson picked up a fumble and ran it in for a touchdown. On the radio you kept calling he’s huffing he’s puffing he scores. Tom it was a classic. Rest in peace.

Jim Marshall

December 4, 2008

Tom was my FAVORITE ASU announcer. I did not have the good fortune to meet him but I know members of his family. I wish them all the best and God Speed. "Smack 'em right in the mouth" up there, Tom!

Jeff Crandall

December 4, 2008

Tom was a great gentleman, I started keeping stats for him at all the Aggie games.. He was the best. We had some good times.. He will be missed by all that knew him! My prayers and thoughts are you the family..May God bless you all!

Jay Holland

December 4, 2008

Lisa and Jen. I had the pleasure of knowing you girls and your Mom in the early 90s.There are no finer lady's than the three of you. My deapest sympathy to you and yours in the loss of your Dad.

Bruce McKelvey

December 4, 2008

I met Tom back in Las Cruces when we were in college at NMSU in the 60's, before his talents and hard work brought him all of these deserving alcolades. Even then, Tom's spirit of kindness and friendship showed that he was a gift to so many whose lives he would touch through the years. It saddens our hearts that Tom is gone from our lives but God had a bigger need for Tom at this time.

My sincerest sympathy and love to his precious family.

Cynthia (Canon) Layton

December 4, 2008

I first met Tom at Trio Fantasy Camp in2006 and again in 2007, Tom great bradcasters voice transitioned easily into singing, his singing of "Tomorrow is a Long Time" and "Hobo's Lullaby"were Camp highlights. I didn't know Tom well but I knew him well enough to know he was a fine man. Our paryers are with you at this most diifcult time.
Ed and Nancy Callahan

Ed and Nancy Callahan

December 4, 2008

Lisa and Jennifer,
I was so saddened to hear of your dads passing. I have so many fond memories of CDS and Daysprig. My thoughts and prayers to you girls and your mom.

Joyce Smith

December 4, 2008

I first met Tom when I was the assistant sports information director at Washington State University when ASU joined the Pac-10. He was one of the most cordial, professional members of the media I have ever met. And there's no question of his love for the Sun Devils. In the 20-plus years since I left WSU I still had the good fortune to cross paths with him on occasion. And I was always greeted by the same warm welcome, big smile and hearty handshake. Once you knew Tom, you knew him for life. My sympathies go out to the ASU family, especially my colleagues and friends in the Sun Devils sports information office.

Oliver Pierce

December 4, 2008

I will always remember tuning into an ASU basketball game when Tom first started broadcasting ASU sports. It was an absolute thrill to to follow the games thru a first class play-by play guy. Thanks for all the wonderful memories.

Dan Mullen

December 3, 2008

We will miss our "surprise" visits from Santa but will treasure the memory of him for all of our lives. Our deepest sympathies are with you. Sincerely, Jim, Jennifer, Lainey & Zach Talerico

Jennifer Talerico

December 3, 2008

I had the pleasure of working with Tom at both KOOL and KARZ. He was simply the best. He will be missed not only by sports fans but by his many friends.

Thayne Higgins

December 3, 2008

Tom, your smiling face and laughing voice will be missed...enjoy your final flight as you soar above the clouds to touch the face of God.
Condolences to you Bonnie, and your family.

Tracy Soto

December 3, 2008

In this day when we don't always take the time to get to know members of the media from other parts of the country that we only see once or twice a year, Tom was one of those guys that you didn't want to waste the opportunity to run into to. I can't imagine someone enjoying their job anymore than Tom, which translated into loving his friends and family around him. He was truly an original.

David Williford

December 3, 2008

Tom from all of us Sun Devil Fans up here in the Verde Valley we will miss you oh so much. It has been our pleasure for all the years you gave us. THANKS

John Smith

December 3, 2008

I've known and admired Tom for more years than I care to remember. All the words and accolades have been said, but Mr. Dillon could ply his craft better than anybody. The people of Arizona have lost a true gentleman and fantastic friend and a great entertainer.

Steve (Mud Duck) Hellyer

December 3, 2008

Tom always brought a smile to our face, he was always so pleasant and kind. Seeing Tom always was a bonus to our day...he will be greatly missed!! Although we have not known him long, he will forever hold a special place in our hearts and be missed! We pray for the family and their loss. Love, The Healys

Kim Healy Franzetti

December 3, 2008

Thanks Tom for being the springboard to my career in Radio-Tv. I remember the 3 hour drive to Corvalis Oregon in which you gave me every ounce of advice you could squeeze in. You will be missed and my prayers go out to your family.

God Bless

Eddie Johnson

December 3, 2008

Tom was a DJ in Las Cruces, N.M., who went on to be the voice of the New Mex. State Aggies during Lou Henson's first stint in Aggieland. I was just starting in newspaper. Now I've been at it 40-plus years in Las Cruces and El Paso, Tom's hometown, by the way. He was the first pro I ever knew, and I admire him a lot. There weren't a lot of Tom Dillons in sports radio/TV

Joe Muench

December 3, 2008

He was always a very kind and caring man!

Hugh Lorch

December 3, 2008

Tom was not only a great announcer but as an ASU athlete, he never used his voice as an opportunity to ridicule. It was a joy to run in to him from time to time over the last 20+ years, but I will always remember him for being the voice of Sun Devil Basketball and Baseball during my two years as a Devil.

Rest in Peace.

Chris Beasley

December 3, 2008

A good man, That always made the games exciting!!

Anthony

Anthony Jones

December 3, 2008

Tom:

I know you can hear us, cause i know i can hear you...the impressions you left will remain with all that you touched. Our family will never forget you, for the smiles you left, we will never forget you no matter where you.

Go in peace and know you have touch many lives.

Mark, Vicki, Casey & Coby Martinez

Mark Martinez

December 3, 2008

Great guy, great broadcaster. Always a smile. A privilege to know and work with him over the years.

Jim Taszarek

December 3, 2008

Tom Dillon was a wonderful person who would go out of his way to help anyone. We have lost a truly great human being! My thoughts and prayers are with Bonnie and the rest of the family!

Scott Sas

December 3, 2008

When I think of Tom a smile crosses my face, just as it did for 15 wonderful years broadcasting Arizona State football, basketball and baseball & Cardinals games together on KTAR. We shared office space, broadcast booths, long car rides, airplane flights, meals, you name it from 1982 thru 1996. Tom always had a joke to share, a "new" restaurant to try. Working alongside Tom was a pleasure. His tribute to me by shaving his head while I was undergoing my chemotherapy for lymphoma back in 1992 will never be forgotten. But, that was Tom. Meat, it was a great run. I just wish we could hear one more "he's goin', he's goin', he scores."

Greg Schulte

December 3, 2008

Thank you Mr. Dillion. I remember listing to you when i was a kid. You were the best play by play person i have ever heard. God spead Sir
Semper Fi
The Abraham Family

James Abraham

December 3, 2008

Tom Dillon was a great broadcaster and a wonderful person. Our business has lost a friend and a real pro. The Valley was treated to some outstanding calls that will always be remembered.

Kevin Harlan

December 3, 2008

NMSU AND LAS CRUCES WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.

HAL STALEY

December 3, 2008

I knew Tom so very long ago, first when he was a young sportscaster in Roswell, N.M., then later when he was the voice of New Mexico State University athletics. It was always a thrill to run across him during his years in Phoenix, to see that the talent and professionalism that he had in those early years had continued to grow. And even more importantly, it it's great to see that so many people in Arizona feel the same way about Tom as I did so many years ago. My sincere condolences to Bonnie and the family.

Bill Cousins

December 3, 2008

Mr. Tom Dillon introduced me to Sun Devil football way back when, and I will be forever grateful that the good Lord provided us with such an honorable and nice gentleman.

Listening to ASU football has not been the same since he left, I surely miss hearing his call of the games!

Rest In Peace my friend!

Joseph McNally

December 3, 2008

Bonnie,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Scott and Bonnie

Bonnie Harris

December 3, 2008

Lisa and Jennifer,
I think of Tom as first your dad and then as a great sportscaster. I remember when he went with the Girl Scout Troop camping. He seemed to forget that he was an important person but enjoyed being "just a Dad out with his girls". God be with you both and your mom at this difficult time.

Annette Gaines

December 3, 2008

Lisa and Jennifer I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father....He was a great guy, and I am thankful I had the chance to meet him in my lifetime.

Lynn R Zook

December 3, 2008

I had the privilege of spending some time with Tom during the 1998 College Wold Series. We rode to the ball park together and he took me to Zesto's for the best milk shake that I have ever had, prior to one of the games. He was a great guy, who could tell a great story and he will be missed.

Josh Balsam

December 3, 2008

Tom was such a gentleman and a consumate professional. Having the opportunity to work with him during his days at Channel 10 was such a blessing. My prayers are with his family whom he adored. There will never be another Tom Dillon. Sincerely, Mary Jo West

Mary Jo West

December 3, 2008

I lived in Phoenix for seven years in the late '80s/early '90s and always enjoyed listening to Tom Dillon on KTAR no matter which game he was doing. He was a joy to listen to.

My condolences to Tom's family. He will be missed.

Randall Allen

December 3, 2008

Will never forget: "He's hit right in the mouth.. and dropped at the 44 yard line" and of course: "He scores! He scores!"
You will truly be missed by this Sun Devil... you were the best.

Troy

December 3, 2008

Lisa and Jennifer,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. I'll always have fond memories of your father.

Julie Lambert Barton

December 3, 2008

Tom, news of your passing came as a shock to me. As a Sun Devil, I shall forever miss that great voice of yours. Thanks for the memories.

Alan Young

December 3, 2008

As an ASU Alumni I feel your pain and grief. May your voice ring forever in our ears and hearts.

Tina

December 3, 2008

I had the great pleasure of meeting Tom at a meeting to support the stadium initiative. I was so tickled to meet the voice of my Cardinals. Nobody called a game better to my ears.

Condolences to the Dillon family. He was special indeed and will surely be missed.

Mark Thompson

December 3, 2008

Remembering your early days in El Paso, TX. The Lord be with you and your family.

John Browning

December 3, 2008

Memories:
As a lil' Sun Devil kid born in abd raised in Tempe....I'll always remember saturday afternoons playing nerf football outside the stadium waiting for the game to start. Dad had a motorhome w/speakers always tuned in to 620 and Tom Dillon. He voice was the best. My son grew up with Tom and the Cardinals and then with FSN. Memories are what I had of Tom. I'm glad that my father, my son, and myself were able to truly enjoy someone who's light came through the radio every Saturday. Thank you Tom. May the Lord bless your soul and your family.

Joey Palomarez

Joey Palomarez

December 3, 2008

He was truly one of the greatest announcers I have ever had the honor to hear. He will truly be missed.

Fan Fan

December 3, 2008

You made me feel as if I was really at the game. Your
passion was contagious and your voice one of a kind. You will be missed.

Peter Fairbanks

December 3, 2008

Tom was the best!!!

My favorite saying by Tom was "here we go again" (or something close to that!) when the Cards would cough up the ball or do something stupid. He was a loyal play-by-by announcer but no homer. Loved listening to his broadcasts.

Sad day for Valley sports fans, and even sadder for those who know Tom personally.

His family will be in my prayers.

A C

December 3, 2008

Tom Dillon has been part of my sports life since I was a young girl. I will miss your knowledge and intelligence.
Darlene

Darlene Fishell

December 3, 2008

A sad day for our family. Tom was a warm and friendly voice when we moved to the Valley in 1989; he inspired me to get through the day during some rough times in my life. I will always remember fondly being part of the chapter of his life that led to his meeting and later marrying Bonnie.

Allen Weiner

December 3, 2008

I rember when asu shut out neb and tom calling that game it was golden. He will be missed.

Sean Sheffield

December 3, 2008

Thank you meat! I had the good fortune to work with you while you were at KTAR. I was just a young punk broadcaster who wanted to learn as much as I could. You were one of the great guys who spent time with me and taught me as much as I was willing to learn. You taught me humility and dignity. You taught me that compassion and being human far outweighed any talent that a broadcaster may or may not have. You taught me to treat everyone with respect. You helped me leave KTAR and "advance" my broadcasting career, and helped me when I walked away from radio. I've thanked you for all this help many times in the past, and will thank you again many more times in the future. You are a class act! Thank you!

Mike "Gabe" Gabrielson

December 3, 2008

Tom: your passing leaves so many waiting for your next radio broadcast in your amazing, perfect, radio voice. Bonnie, you are in my prayers for comfort and strength. Tom will be watching from the sidelines...

Kathy Weiner

December 3, 2008

Plummer's on the 10! Plummer's on the 5! He SCORES! He SCORES!...

That voice...that personality...that passion...Tom WAS local sports. I only met him once, but he treated me like I was a beloved member of HIS family. I will never forget his distinctive voice.

Tom Dillion, you will be missed...Rest in Peace...

Pat Baca

December 3, 2008

It has been a long time since I worked with Tom at Channel 10 Kool News. His relaxed attitude and easy laugh are still remembered. I pray the Lord's comfort on his family.
Phyllis Palacio Wright

Phyllis Palacio Wright

December 3, 2008

You have been an important part of my life for decades, and you shall be missed. You made ASU sports alive and exciting. Blessings to your family.

Marian Bolliger

December 3, 2008

For as long as I can remember listening to ASU and Cardinals games, I have heard Tom do a masterful job of broadcasting. I will miss his professionalism, humor, and knowledge of the sports he loved so much.
Joseph Bloom
Chandler, Az

Joseph Bloom

December 3, 2008

Rest in peace Meat! Hopefully the SUn Devils will lineup left to right across our radio dial this weekend and pull off a victory in your memory! All of ym condolences to your family. The SUn Devil Family will never be the same without this classy gentleman broadcasting for them!

Rob Gresser

December 3, 2008

I was so sad to hear of Mr Dillon's passing today. I have been going to ASU games since I was five, and have been a Cardinal fan my whole life. Tom was definitely the voice of the Devils, and the Cards. Some of my fondest memories of sports were listening to his broadcasts. God Bless Tom, you will be missed. Go Devils

Matthew Prince

December 3, 2008

Tom was such a shining star. A true gentleman who always had a true love of people and such a incredible love and respect for Bonnie. I will truly miss you Tom!

Scott Agnew

December 3, 2008

I am so saddened by this news of Tom's departure from this life. My memory of Tom, who I have not seen in almost ten years, are of a most down-to-earth, generous and joyful man. As a KTAR/K-Lite colleague, he made all of his friendships seem extremely important to him. This is true class and true charity. God Bless your family. May Tom's soul rest in peace, and may eternal Light shine upon him.

April Yeager

December 3, 2008

As the "namesake" of the location where Tom spent many hours, I now miss a dear friend. There always had to be at least one dinner and several refreshments in Omaha, but always a real kick to be around and a true gentleman. They say they come in threes, so I guess the ASU Sports Guys have lost their third. We will truly miss each of them in their own wonderful ways.
Guthrie Packard, Jr.

Guthrie Packard, Jr.

December 2, 2008

Tom seemed to be exceptionally talented at everything -- from sportscasting to flying, from singing to telling jokes. Most of all, to uplifting those around him by showing he truly cared about them. His compassion for others and love of life will always be remembered. Heaven just landed an MVP, and I suspect his good works will continue to be felt on earth.

Barb Maack

December 2, 2008

Over the years, I too enjoyed listening to Tom broadcast ASU football games. I feel another era has passed but his talents will surely be passed on to every person who broadcasts ASU games. So long, Tom, you will be missed!

Jerry Keyack

December 2, 2008

We first got to know Tom by his voice, then as a co-realtor to Bonnie and the most recent as Santa Claus. Always a gentleman! Thank you for blessing our lives and our childrens'. In Heaven - you can broadcast all you wish!

Tobi & Craig McCarthy

December 2, 2008

Jim Brock, ASU head baseball coach for 23 years, very much enjoyed working with Tom Dillon throughout the years. Tom was both fair and professional in his post-game interviews; he knew just how to handle the situation, especially after a painful loss. We admired Tom so much when he shaved his head in support of his co-announcer Greg Schulte who was then fighting cancer. He was just a great human being. My prayers to his wife and girls. And remember, now he and Jim have the best possible seats for ASU sports.

Pat Brock

December 2, 2008

I knew Tom in grade school and high-school as he launched his first band. I send my love and condolences to his family and sweet sisters Mary Anne,Gina and Maggie. We will miss him and his wonderful voice!!

Mary Browning-Love

December 2, 2008

you will be missed

Robert Hutchison

December 2, 2008

Tom Dillon; the only man that could walk in to any situation and change the atmosphere of the room with one of his many long winded jokes. It's not often in life you get the opportunity to work with a legend such as Tom who doesn't impose his ego on you. Tom was not only a friend & mentor to me, he was also very special to my wife and children. Tom, I can still see myself standing next to you as you make one of your memorable calls; "He's at the 10! He's at the 5! He scores!" I hope you can hear us calling up to you, "You scored big, buddy." Bonnie, we will always be there for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family.

John & Anne Mistler

December 2, 2008

i was shocked to hear of tom's passing. i so enjoyed, all of my family did as well, listening to tom for so many years. he was just my age. my sympathies go out to bonnie and the girls sheila bateman

sheila bateman

December 2, 2008

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Memorial Events
for Tom Dillon

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Tom's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Tom Dillon's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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