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BORN

1949

DIED

2021

Thomas Sodergren Obituary

Thomas Sodergren

August 8, 1949 June 28, 2021

Tom Sodergren passed away peacefully at home on June 28, 2021 with his wife and children by his side. Born August 8, 1949 in Minneapolis, MN he moved to Oxnard, CA shortly thereafter and graduated from Humboldt State University. After graduation, he started a business selling pita pocket sandwiches at county fairs all over California. Many of his friends and family helped with this business, whether they wanted to or not, and have cherished memories from his entrepreneurial endeavor.

After many years in the food business, he found his passion working with children. He moved to Ventura County to work for Casa Pacifica, where he worked until he retired. He poured his heart into his work and cared so much about helping children overcome some of the most difficult circumstances. He had a gift as a mental health professional and many children and families benefited from his expertise. He was adored and respected by all of his colleagues. In 2011 he was awarded a Mental Health Advocate award for his pioneering work with therapeutic behavioral services for children. A very proud achievement.

He was married to the love of his life, Susan for over 30 years and loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Marvin and Elizabeth (ne Atkins) Sodergren, his brother Philip Sodergren, his niece Tina Sodergren and nephew Thomas Edward Sodergren. He is survived by his wife Susan, son Jon Thomas Sodergren of Los Angeles, daughter Caitlin (Zack) Dransoff of Bakersfield, sister Sharon (Jim) Baxter of Carson City NV, stepson Aaron (Carly) Osmonson of Orinda, CA and Eric (Brit) Osmonson of Los Alamos, CA and his seven grandchildren, Beckett, Ella, Miles, Charlie, Jackson, Archie, and Leo, all of whom loved him very much.

A close second to his love of family, was his love of the LA Dodgers and LA Lakers. You could always find him watching the games, whether on tv or in-person.

A celebration of his life will take place at a later date when family and friends are able to gather.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Maria Times on Jul. 1, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Annette Andrade

July 13, 2021

So very sad to hear about Tom going away. I will always cherish the memories of those Super Bowl parties when all the gang would get together with all their families. Tom you will be missed by all. I hope he is with Waylon and throwing rocks for him. Much strength to you Susan, JT, and Caty, at this difficult time.

Moises Rico and Family

July 3, 2021

Deepest condolences to Susan and the family. Tom was a kind, caring and thoughtful being. We had some fond memories when he and Susan lived across the street from us. Tom will be missed.

Nancy Gobbell

July 1, 2021

Sad loss for all of us, he will be missed. Fifty years of fond memories glad we have them.

Kevin A Reeves

July 1, 2021

It was such an honor and privilege to know you, your gentle kindness and sense of humor has left a lasting impression on my heart. I pray for comfort for your family during this time.

Sharon Baxter

July 1, 2021

My brother was the kindest, smartest and funniest person I knew. He always had my mom in hysterics at the dinner table when we were young. I loved him so much. The phone lines will be quiet.

Susan Sodergren

July 1, 2021

He was my constant source of humor.A wonderful husband, grandpa,brother. My heart will have a huge hole where he belonged.

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