Thomas Katica Obituary
Thomas P. KATICA Son of John A. Katica and Mary E. (Katica) Aylward, passed away peacefully at home on Whidbey Island July 8, 2010, after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 56-years-young, an entertainer at heart, and lived a life full of family and friends, fishing, golfing, traveling, and a career in the marine industry. Tommy was born in Seattle, attended O'Dea and Queen Anne High Schools, and then began exploring what the world had to offer. He would recite the list of his various occupations proudly, they included: burger restaurant owner, commercial fisherman and crabber, taxi mechanic, dog breeder and professional musician among them. 'Tommy Cadillac' was a member of Seattle rock group Jr. Cadillac for 10 years, first as a roadie, then as a vocalist and keyboardist once his musical talents were discovered. He then moved to Hawaii for a short time and was part of the group Hot & Glassy. For 23 years, Tom was the master of ceremonies for Taste of Edmonds in the beer garden and for similar events in Poulsbo and in Newport, Oregon. He was an avid salt and freshwater fisherman, a great golfer, duck hunter, and skier. In 1987, Tom began a career in the commercial marine industry with MER Equipment in Seattle. He joined ZF Marine, LLC, a German gear manufacturer, in 1997, where he managed sales for the U.S. western region. He appreciated the opportunity to travel throughout the U.S. and Europe. Tom treated his customers and colleagues with great respect and considered them his friends and extended family. During industry trade shows, he gained notoriety and proved his talent as an entertainer at the piano and with hilarious discourses on gear boxes and other engine parts. All those who knew Tom loved him; he was the life of the party and will be greatly missed. He taught us many things, but most importantly: 'happiness is the key'. Tom was preceded in death by his father, mother and younger brother, Philip. Tom is survived by his fiancée, Sara Jewell Hobbs; siblings Eileen Rook (Gary), Christine, John (Ann), Jim (Sally), Molly Thompson (Jack), and Jane, and nine nephews. Tom Katica's life will be celebrated with a memorial service at St. Anne's Church, Seattle, on Friday, July 30, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Passenger Vessel Foundation would be greatly appreciated. (www.pvfoundation.com) Arrangements handled by Whidbey Memorial, Oak Harbor, WA.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ray Lyman
July 31, 2019
I miss TomKat everyday!
Barbara Houser
July 13, 2011
aww, I was so sorry to hear of Tom's passing...knew him from the 70's, he lived in our house on Queen Ann for awhile...we used to call him Katigeek cuz he was so funny and so goofey, an absolute dollface. He always made me laugh heartily... sincerely, B. Bell
Mark White
March 2, 2011
Tommy Katica, I met and knew Tommy from the 13 Coins days. Smart, high energy and fun. Tommy would suck up the oxygen in a room if he could. I have lots of fun memories of Tommy during those days in the 70's.........
Grant Erwin
December 16, 2010
Tom, I was just looking you up on Facebook, wondering what ever happened to you. Wish I still had my "In For Life" shirt, what was that, 1981? Go in peace, my brother.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
November 23, 2010
A work change sent me in a different direction a few years ago and I lost touch with Tom. I happened by chance to be in Seattle this year during the work boat show and thought I'd go by and reacquaint myself. I was deeply saddened to learn of Tom's passing. A friend who will be truly missed. Lesson learn: don't let a day go by without telling those in your life, past and present, how special they are! Sincere/belated Condolences - Scott Paulson (Sammamish, Wa.)
Craig Holman
August 26, 2010
I will never forget you buddy. I cherish the hundreds if not thousands of hours fishing with you out in the waters of Bush and Lagoon Point for the past 3 decades. When I take my last drift in the Rip It will always be dedicated to you my friend. Calm seas and Fair winds till we meet again
"Windmill" So. Whidbey
Margaret Sweeney
August 22, 2010
E lei kau, e lei ho'oilo i ke aloha
Love is worn like a wreath through the summers and the winters. Love is everlasting.
Aloha to Tom's family. He rests in peace and we will see him again.
Margaret Sweeney, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
Kevin Murphy
August 18, 2010
I was lucky to have called Tom a friend and a colleague, and I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, and with him.
Marilyn & Everett Peterson
August 16, 2010
Tom, our very best and favorite neighbor in Bayview. We always knew when you were coming home because we could hear your little beamer working it's way up the hill. Your smile was infectious.
You were a pleasure to know. Rip Tom.
Carl Micu
August 8, 2010
Who can ever forget Tom's smile and endless time to help any one in need. Tom will be missed but never forgotten.
janna gundlach
August 7, 2010
He did the best imitation of Randy Dangerfield. And the few times I was fortunate to have him play keyboards & sing at our Kona parties,I always requested "Nadine" which he did just like in the old days of JR. Cadillac.
Bob Routt
August 6, 2010
After not hearing anything about Tom for years, this is not the news I wanted. God bless!
- Bob Routt (O'Dea '71)
Peggy Dubuque
August 5, 2010
Life may end, but love is endless.
Roberto De Petris
July 31, 2010
Ciao Tom,
I will never forget your smile. I will miss you but I am sure that one day I will meet you again.
Joe Conway
July 30, 2010
I am extremely sorry for your loss, Tom was a great guy and fun to be around. I will miss talking to him and miss seeing him, especially at the Florida boat shows. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Steve Wilcox
July 30, 2010
Tommy was dear cherished friend that I was lucky enough to have had in my life. We played music together, laughed, partied, had incredible amounts of fun, recorded together, all cherished memories that will live in my heart forever. He will always be, "Rockin Tommy Cadillac" and... he will always be missed.
Marty Robbins
July 30, 2010
He's the older brother I never had ... so generous, so genuine ... so Tommy.
He enjoyed looking out for me on the golf course, crabbing, dining ... everywhere we spent time together. I am sure he will continue to do so .... I love you Tommy
Lucy Brady
July 29, 2010
My brother Pat (also an O'Dea grad) died suddenly @ age 25. When I got the phone call, while attending school in New York City, I was wearing my Jr. Cadillac t-shirt. He and I would see their shows all the time. I have been in tears since seeing Tom's obituary. It has brought back many fun memories of dancing with my big brother. How could you not jump up and dance to "Raised On Rock"? I want to send my heartfelt sympathy to Jane (fellow HNA attendee) and the rest of the Katica family. The memories that Tom gave me are invaluable.
Kent and Robin Merrill
July 28, 2010
Tom, our time to know you was too short, but the few years we had you, we had good times and many laughs. Your love of life and determination was an insperation to us all. You put up one hell of a fight and I admire your courage, but your body just got too tired. I hope you are resting and at peace now. Until we meet again my friend, I will think of you often and draw upon your strength.
Traci Brewer-Rogstad
July 27, 2010
There are times in our life in which we are not able to choose... our birth, our family, our death - yet there are the times in between these three in which we are given great latitude in our choices. These include our career, our friends, our happiness, our reasons for living, our hopes and dreams, our treatment of others, etc., etc. - In my relatively short time of knowing Tom, I always knew his choices were favoring his happiness, his friends, his love, his life. He brought smiles to so many faces and we were blessed with his presence on sooo many occasions. Certainly we know death happens, we know the effects of cancer and other illnesses, but this was a case of a gentle and admired man being taken entirely too soon, leaving a painful impact on the lives of his friends and loved ones. Tommy, We love you, we miss you, we thank you for your love and laughter - and most importantly, we are so appreciative of the lessons of happiness in our daily choices that you left us with. May your spirit soar my friend and may you continue to look after your loved fiance, family and friends. Thank you for all you gave while you had the opportunity.
John Todd
July 27, 2010
Tom was bigger than life as they say. We all have standards or benchmarks to which we strive in our daily lives - Tom set several of mine. To Sara and the rest of his family; I know you have many great memories of Toms wit and energy that I hope will help you through this stressful time. We will all miss him.
Roger McElroy
July 27, 2010
A true freind and partner of Catalina Express and all who knew him. We will miss your smile and constant good cheer. God bless you Tom Katica.
Keith Kaelberer
July 27, 2010
I remember the first time I met Tom, I was in a body cast and we had the Blue Plate Special. You where a truly amazing man, and I will miss you.
Carlos Martinez
July 26, 2010
Dear Katica Family,
My sincere condolences to all of you. I pray the Lord may give you comfort thoughtout this difficult times.
Ian Jefferds
July 26, 2010
I will always consider it my pleasure to have known Tom as I always was in a better mood after being around him because of his good nature and great sense of humor. My heart goes out to Tom's family.
July 26, 2010
My heart goes out to my cousins Eileen, Tina, John, Jim, Molly, Jane, Spouses, Children and Sara. I have wonderful memories of Tommy over the years. Always a smile on his face & a twinkle in his eye. As my sis Barb said, we use to love seeing him play with Jr Cadillac & he often put us on the guest list - we loved it. We even went with Uncle John (Katman) a few times. We had fun times at the Taste of Edmonds with Tommy as emcee.... he always gave a shout out to us. He made everyone feel good! My prayers are with all of you as we mourn the HUGE LOSS of such a Wonderful Person. He is at peace now. God Bless & Much Love, Cousin Patty Boyle
Charlie Katica
July 26, 2010
I was fortunate enough to meet Tom a few times at Katica reunions. He was a great guy and will be missed by all.
Wolfram Frei
July 26, 2010
We lost a person with a heart of gold, with an open mind, always helpful and friendly. It was always a pleasure to work with him. We lost a great colleague. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and Sara.
Judy Pival Wilson
July 25, 2010
To the Katica Family,
My sympathy and prayers on the death of Tom to your families. Eileen was my classmate at St Anne's Grade School for 8 years so we all grew up together. Peace and hope to you all. Sincerely, Judy Pival Wilson
Juanma Raposo
July 25, 2010
My condolences to Tom's family.
Golf at Luana Hills, HI. Tom killed this tough course.
July 24, 2010
Eric Schiff
July 24, 2010
If there was ever a model sales person, Tom Katica was the one. He was responsive - always returned a call from wherever he was, he knew his product back to front, he was flexible, he was always fair, and to top it all off you couldn't help but like him. After one deal, you counted him in your list of friends and knew you were going to look him up whether you had another deal or just to play some golf. All at Navatek will miss him greatly and offer our sincere condolences to Sara and Tom's family.
Christine Will
July 24, 2010
Tom is a role model of someone who really lived his 56 years! Our condolences to Sara, to her family, to his large family and to his many friends.
Sincerely, The Wills
July 23, 2010
Tommy, a great talent... At peace... Robert Sandidge WA
July 23, 2010
Didn't know Tommy Cadillac but saw him
front and center. I know a member of the family and I offer my condolences.
Redhead Cole
July 23, 2010
Didn't know Tommy Cadillac but saw him
front and center. I know a member of the family and I offer my condolences.
July 23, 2010
Though we didn't see Tommy a lot he was always so kind to his cousins, the Boyle girls.
He would put our names on the guest list when he was singing at local pubs and always acknowledged us on stage.
We loved it.
Sending prayers to Eileen, Tina, John, Jim, Mollie & Janie, on your loss of a great brother.
Love, Cousin Barb Boyle
Tyke Kuhlmann
July 23, 2010
All live on who put music in the air - Tommy w/ Cadillac singing No Money Down at the Rainbow ! that's the cool cat I'll remember -
July 23, 2010
It was so wonderful to know you and have you as a member of our family.
Love you, miss you,
Cathryn Halpin
Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary
July 23, 2010
Dear Members of the Katica Family,
With sympathy and friendship, we Sisters of the Holy Names send to each of you our supportive prayers as Tom enters his eternal life. May you know his nearness often and share in his deep peace and joy from within God's loving Presence.
Pistore Nicola
July 23, 2010
Tom you was really a good mixer and a very enterprising person with an amazing and active life.
I'll miss you,
Good by my friend.
John Shea
July 23, 2010
Rest in Peace Tom Kat. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and Sara.
Giulio Perugia
July 23, 2010
I remember, when I saw Tom for the first time, I thought "that's the all-American man", like I supposed and appreciated an American should be.
And I soon learned how nice he was, brilliant, flooding in his way to be, every time ready to help colleagues, active... a real leader.
I'm sure all of us will miss him.
Giulia Polli
July 23, 2010
Knowing Tom "the Bomb" has been a privilege. The shining light of your eyes and smile will keep on warming our hearts and will keep you in touch with us forever. In loving memory of a great friend: ski fast on white clouds, ride big heavenly waves and play good songs! My thoughts go to Sara, to the family and to all of us people who will miss Tom so much.
July 22, 2010
Peace be with you Tom. You will be missed. Anita
Piratevan
July 22, 2010
Tom was the greatest Man to me. He took me on the best Clam dig I have ever been on. I will truly miss him. Kat-Man, you are in my prayers.
Life is good at elk camp!!
Mike & Kathy Hoyt
July 22, 2010
Tom was family to us; we enjoyed his friendship and campanionship at work (MER), elk camp and other outings. We will miss his great smile and laughing at his jokes! Our condolences to his family and all the great friends that call him family! Mike & Kathy Hoyt
Ray Lyman
July 22, 2010
A classic line TomKat used on one of his skits at a PVA meeting. "You Lova Da Boat, You Scrubba Da Boat" He loved his boats and he loved his friends and family even more!
We miss him a ton!!!!!!!!
Michael Gauthreaux
July 22, 2010
Our thought and prayers are with you. You will be sadly missed by the ZF guys in St Rose.
Don Hamann
July 22, 2010
Tom was like a brother to me, I will miss him for now until the day we meet again in Heaven. I will always remember & cherish the times we have spent together. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sara and Tom's family and extended family.
Bill Forslund
July 22, 2010
Rest In Peace Tom... I run into your friends lately, everywhere I go. You cut a broad swath on your journey and left smiles on many many faces.
Jose Contreras
July 22, 2010
I was extremely lucky to travel with Tom on business trips and every single trip was unique and unforgetable. We will all miss Tom and his contagious happiness. My most sincere condolences to Sarah and the rest of his family.
Charlie Morgan
July 22, 2010
I will miss your light hearted approach to life, the non-judgemental way you dealt with all of your friends, and especially the fun we had with music and golf. I will forever remember you at the Golf Tournaments with the roll of drink tickets hanging out of your pocket. thanks for the memories Tommy!
Rich & Julie Kavet
July 22, 2010
Wish we had known of Tom's interest in his "Dalmacian Cousins". The Vuksanovics of Tivat would have loved to have had him visit. Everyone will miss Tom.
With our sympathy and love to all the family, Rich and Julie Kavet and Family
Joanne Hughes (daughter of Mike and Marge Hughes)
July 22, 2010
My condolences to the family. My thoughts/prayers are with you.
July 22, 2010
we will miss you Tom. love brad, marian, whit, trista, tabi and brady dixon..
Laura Grison
July 22, 2010
Tom wanted me to organize for him a trip to Dalmazia where some relevants used to live. There was no time left for this and I really feel bad. A big hug to the family.
Karen Perez
July 22, 2010
I never got the pleasure of meeting Tom, I recently joined ZF Marine. I would like to extend my codolences to his family and fiancee. May the Lord provide strength to all his love ones and may his memories bring peace in your heart each day that passes by.
Nathan Gibson
July 22, 2010
Clear blue ski, Calm smooth seas,
It's All Good!
Hugh Dudley
July 22, 2010
I extend heartfelt condolences to Tom's family.
Trina Perkins
July 22, 2010
Trina Perkins
Your prayers are with the family.
Keith Sparks
July 22, 2010
In loving memory of one of the greatest persons I have had the privelidge to know.
I will miss you and you will always be in my thoughts.
Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Katica's name
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved 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.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
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.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
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.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Katica's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
