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Thomas Christian Obituary
Thomas Colby Christian, age 74, died peacefully at home on November 5, 2014.
Tom was born in Portland, Oregon on April 11, 1940 to Blaine and Gladys Christian. His childhood years were spent exploring the NW outdoors, which led him to achieve Eagle Scout. He graduated from Wilson High School and went on to Oregon State University. Tom affiliated with Sigma Alpha Epsilon and met his beloved wife, Susan Odmark.
In 1963 they were married, and Tom joined the Navy flight program. He was stationed on Whidbey Island and served two tours in Vietnam. They welcomed their son Matthew, soon followed by their daughter Dana. Tom's next career was with Northwest Airlines, a 32 year span, retiring as a 747 Captain.
While raising his family in Bellevue, Tom enjoyed working on projects at home, long walks with his dog, and socializing with his family and many friends. Tom had the unique ability to strike up a friendship or conversation with ease. The last fourteen years were very special together with family at the cottage on Whidbey Island.
Tom is survived by his wife of 50 years, Susan, son Matt (Marci), daughter Dana (Jay Krueger) and four wonderful grandchildren, Christian, Carly, Ava and Amanda, and brother, Blayne.
Tom led life with passion and his legacy lives on in all those he touched.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for all the medical care and friendship offered to Tom during his nine year fight with Multiple Myeloma.
A celebration of his life will be held on November 22, 2014 at 2pm at Broadmoor Golf Club, Seattle.
Donations may be sent in Tom's memory to: www.mmore.org (Multiple Myeloma Research) or www.rotary.positiveplace.org (Rotary Boys & Girls Club of Seattle).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Christian
Sponsored by The Family.
December 4, 2014
My condolences to your family for your loss. Thomas' grandfather Bennett Ford Christian and my great grandfather Harry Stone Christian were brothers. Sincerely, Michelle Cocchia ([email protected])
Kathee and Rex Nelick
November 23, 2014
What a lovely memorial and celebration of Tom yesterday. We were so glad we were a part of it. We all loved flying with Tom and we have wonderful memories of those years...we are so very sorry for your loss.
Ginger & Bill Storts
November 22, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss, Susan, Dana, Jay, Christian and Ava. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Katie VIeceli
November 20, 2014
Sue, Dana & Matt - I have many good memories of your Dad in Somerset. He had a wonderful way of making everyone around him feel special. My thoughts and prayers are with you. WIth Love , Katie
Toni and Jim Newhoff
November 20, 2014
We shall miss your presents at Whidbey this summer! You had a true gift of reaching out to people.
Laurie Towe
November 20, 2014
What a cool guy,, and so classy in dealing with illness, always a smile.
Debbie Dreis
November 18, 2014
Whenever I walked away from seeing Tom at his grandkids' events , I always thought how lucky his family (and friends) were to have such a happy, friendly, kind and positive person surrounding their lives. May all the wonderful memories of Tom live on and guide us all how to live our lives.
He was so Happy when so McDonald!! after eating Pasta for for several weeks!!! Great Tom!!!
julia beretta
November 18, 2014
here is Tom in 2014/ Italy... funny man!! go to miss you
Ken Derrick/ Julia Beretta!! Derrick
November 18, 2014
sweet memories!!!
Ken Derrick/ Julia Beretta!! Derrick
November 18, 2014
David Runyan
November 17, 2014
Susan and family, My thoughts will be with you at the celebration of Tom's life this Saturday. I loved the obituary and his smiling face.....brought tears to my eyes. Love, David
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