Thomas Everett Ruhl

My first grade teacher.. since I started teaching, I think of you often and how you made an impact on my young life. I became a special education teacher as a second career and alway remember what a cheerleader I had in you, early on. You had such a calm and steady way of teaching, a voice I still remember to this day. You touched many lives. I´m lucky you touched mine as a young first grader.

I remember.

Tom. I think of you often and the brief time we spent together. I learned so much from you. Those who loved you were devastated when you died and carry you now in their hearts. Rest is Peace my friend. Robert

I worked for and with Tom at Marylhurst University for 3 years. It is amazing how often I think about him and the impact that he and my work at Marylhurst has had in my life. As Tom and I were born in the same year, and graduated from high school the same year, and received our doctorates from the U of O... Rest in Peace Friend. You taught and affected many people and provided lessons that they too have shared with others. Miss you.

As a former student from Marylhurst I have reached a turning point in my professional direction, so I thought It was finally time to call Tom again. I was excited because he always had that spark, that thing that said, "I really see you and care about what you're seeking," So I looked him up and learned, sadly, and so late that he has passed. So now I will have to seek my answer from him in another way. But blessed he is, and so full of life, I look forward to working with him again. I...

Tom wore his humanity easily, a mantle to be envelop all he met. A conversation with Tom was a rare and wonderful oasis, a chance to remember the importance of human connections. As my "office neighbor" at Wood Middle School years ago, I carried the title of "counselor" but my young "clients" (and I) often turned to him as well! The world is a sadder place without his gentle humor and uplifting perspective. --Marcia Clark, Portland

I just learned about Tom's passing and am saddened, for all of us. Tom was such an encouragment to me in my studies at Lewis and Clark. His genuine caring for students, and strong belief in all of us means so much to me. What a special person!

To Mary, Zona, Amanda, Steve and all the family.
Our deepest sympathy to all. We were out of town and just found out about Tom's passing. He was a great person and will be missed by everyone's life he touched. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Dan and Patty Hogan

My heartfelt condolences to Tom's family and so many close friends. Tom was a giver and a champion for all. His spirit of service will live on through all those he leaves behind.
Celebrating all that is Tom.