Thomas Ronald DeVore

Thomas Ronald DeVore 1942 - 2014 Thomas DeVore, 71 of Redding, CA passed away on January 23, 2014 after a courageous battle with lung disease. Tom was born on September 24, 1942 in Arcata, CA to parents Lawrence DeVore and Jean Kuhnhausen. He spent his hard-working 45 year long career in the logging industry as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator. He was also a faithful volunteer firefighter for 17 years serving the Blue Lake Fire Department in Blue Lake, CA. For the 12 years prior to his retirement in 2005, Tom was dedicated to his career operating heavy equipment for Columbia Helicopter Logging where he worked and traveled with his wife Sherri Lee to Alaska and the entire Northwest. Just a few of Tom's passions included many outdoor activities such as hunting in Modoc with his family and friends. He also enjoyed fishing and golfing and was an avid SF Giants and 49's fan. He had a true love for music and enjoyed playing his guitar. He was a big fan of the Everly Brothers and growing up he and his brother Larry would often play music and sing. They were well known locally as the DeVore Brothers. He was a baseball coach and a very proud fan, following his families sporting careers and events for many years, from his oldest son to his youngest grandchild. Tom also had a love for old cars and trucks. He spent many hours restoring his 1965 Fastback Ford Mustang. His biggest loves though, were his family and friends. He never met a stranger and was always there for anyone and everyone. Tom "Mr. Wonderful" and wife, Sherri Lee "Sunshine Girl" married since June 17, 1960 were each others best friends and soul mates. To their family and anyone who knows them, they are the perfect example of true love and a strong and everlasting marriage. Because of his strength, love and dedication, he is and will always remain a hero to his entire family. Tom is survived by the love of his life, wife Sherri Lee to whom he was married for 53 years. She lovingly cared for him and was by his side throughout his illness. He is also survived by his mother, Jean Kuhnhausen of Blue Lake, CA, sister Yvonne Noble and husband Gary of Corvallis, OR, brother Larry DeVore and wife Wilma of Bonners Ferry, ID, sister Sue Lynn Kuhnhausen of Blue Lake, CA and brother Mike Kuhnhausen and wife Lynn of Bonners Ferry, ID. He leaves behind two proud sons, Kim DeVore and wife Kelly of Eureka, CA and Tim DeVore and wife Dee of Madras, OR. He "PaPa" is also survived by his 9 loving grandchildren, Shawn, Chasey, Nicole, David, Lindsey, Brittney, Tim Jr., Jeremiah and Sherri Lee. He also leaves behind 12 great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews and countless beloved friends including lifelong friends, Dennis Taylor and cousin, Connie Kight. The family gives special thanks and deep appreciation to two very special friends, Jim and Judy Marcum for all of their love and support. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Blue Lake Fire Hall in Blue Lake, CA on Saturday, February 15, 2014 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Blue Lake Fire Department. Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com and click on obits.