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Thomas Andrew Eschenfelder
1954 - 2020
BORN
1954
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Thomas Eschenfelder Obituary
February 17, 1954 - May 21, 2020
Resident of San Jose
Thomas Andrew Eschenfelder passed away peacefully after a nine year battle with renal cell carcinoma on May 21, 2020. He loved teaching and using music education as a vehicle to teach lessons about life. Seeing the sparkle in a young person's eyes as they discovered new ways to tell their musical story was his daily inspiration.
Tom was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Andrew H. Eschenfelder and Jean R. Eschenfelder. The family moved to California in 1967. While at Saratoga High School, Tom began both teaching drums with the San Jose Rebels Drum and Bell Corps and marching with the Santa Clara Vanguard. He continued to march with the Vanguard while earning his first Bachelor's degree in psychology from UCSB. He returned to direct the Santa Clara Vanguard B Corps and serve as Percussion Instructor at Westmont High School as he earned a second Bachelor's degree in music, as well as a teaching credential, from SJSU. He then entered a 29-year teaching career at Andrew Hill High School, where he taught concert band, choir, piano, marching band, jazz band, IB Music, guitar, and musical theatre. Throughout his adventures, Tom practiced his lifelong passion for music and for drumming by performing with touring rock and roll bands, community theatres, and big bands.
Tom is survived by his wife Joan, his daughters Cindy and Lin, his father Andrew, his sister Sue, and his loving extended family, friends, and students. His laughter and warmth will be missed. Peace and love.
A celebration of life is pending. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Andrew Hill High School Music Department, which can be made online at https://tinyurl.com/AHHSmusicdonation or by sending a check to Andrew Hill High School, made out to AHHS c/o Music Dept/ASB.
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Eschenfelder
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
6 Entries
Thao V.
June 15, 2020
Mr. E is the man that taught me to challenge differences in ability through hard-work and fearlessness. I possessed many fears yet Mr. E remains steadfast in his support which allows me to overcome my fear of failure. I will miss his sense of humor and kindness that surpasses any counselors I ever had. I will always remember the high-fives and shoulder pats that he gave me whenever I overcome a challenge.
I never and never will forget you Mr. E, I will always remember your words when I struggle in school. Your smile brightens my sadness and fills it with sunshine over the rainbow.
Beverly Fonkwo
June 5, 2020
Mr. E was one of the teachers that made a huge impact during my time at Andrew Hill. Even if you were having an off day coming into choir, you could be certain that by the end of class time you would walk out of the music room laughing and full of smiles. Those are memories that continue to stay with me as I look back on my high school experience. He will forever be missed.
Rest in perfect peace, Mr. E, and praying all your loved ones are comforted during this time.
Dennis O. Shepherd
June 5, 2020
I have heard my dear friend, the Rev. Karyl J. Leslie, speak many times of her cousin and family. The tribute to Mr. Eschenfelder is very inspirational. I wish I had had the privilege of knowing him and his family. Many blessings to his family.
Nikki Grist
June 4, 2020
Tom was an amazing man with a zest for life, a huge smile, and a hearty laugh. He invoked a love for music and learning in all he touched. Heaven's band just gained a great new drummer & leader. Much love to Joan, Cindy, and Lin.
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Karyl Leslie
June 3, 2020
Tom and his sister Sue were dearly loved cousins from my very earliest memories and inspirations to me as years went by. Tom's infectious joy and affirmation, his skills and care, his love for his students and his work, are seen in the tributes from many of his students and co-workers. His smile and laughter would light up a room. I will always be grateful for him and his family. May you all hold wonderful memories close to heart. May you be encouraged and inspired day by day. And may you know deep peace. Love always.
Darling & Fischer Chapel of the Hills
June 2, 2020
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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