Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Thomas Kettlewell Obituary
denly on March 16, 2007. Born on December 4, 1955, in Tucson, Arizona, Tom spent his first days as the only eight pound baby in an incubator. His lungs wouldn't expand. Once he left the incubator he never stopped making noise. On his first day of school, Tom told his teacher he could count to 100. When he got to 67, the teacher told him to shut up. That was the first sign Tom was a mathematical genius. Tom graduated from Palo Verde High School in 1973, where his 5'2" frame wrestled in the 87 to 110 pound weight class. After high school Tom joined the United States Air Force, where he served for six years and fortunately grew to his adult height of 6'5". Tom graduated from the University of Arizona in 1987 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Tom worked for Intel Corporation in Chandler for fifteen years and in 2003 took a new position with ON Semiconductor. Tom traveled the world for Intel and ON, and was unique as an engineer because he possessed outstanding technical abilities as well as people skills. He was a wonderful storyteller with great comedic timing, and could entertain for hours. Tom achieved his career goal when he was recently named Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Digital and Consumer Products Group at ON. Tom's world was his family, who he loved and cherished, and those sentiments were absolutely reciprocated. Tom was incredibly proud of his family and spent his free time tutoring his kids in math, coaching their Pop Warner football teams and skiing with them at his favorite place—the White Mountains. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Kristi, his children, Lindsey, David and Kadie, his grandchildren Riley and Gannon, his brother Bob, his sisters Patti Bersbach, Susan, and Judi (Jeff) Snavely, his brothers-in-law Mike (Carol) and Jeff (Lisa) Freeman, his mother-in-law Karma Freeman, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jean Kettlewell, and his father-in-law, David Freeman. A celebration and remembrance of his life is scheduled for Thursday, March 22, 2007, at 5:00 p.m., at Ashley Manor, 1380 South Price Road, Chandler, Arizona.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Kettlewell
Sponsored by family and friends of Tom.
Bill Steiner
March 22, 2021
I was thinking of Tom last week on 3/16/2021 as I planned my trip from Denver to Tucson. I said to myself I am going to stop by and see my friend Tom. I googled his name and was very surprised to see my pal had passed away. We had been out of touch since 1996. That was the last time I saw him at his home in Chandler. I got laid off from Hughes Aircraft Co. and he had me bring my resume up and he gave me the Grand Tour at Intel. We then went to his house and had lunch. So much for that.I am very sad that he is gone. I will miss his laugh and good natured personality.
I met Tom in the early spring of 1982 in the hall way of Bldg 801at Hughes Aircraft as we took our early morning break. We were both 6'4" so we couldn't miss each other. I had long hair and he asked me if I was in a band. After that we we really hit it off and became great friends. We found out that our birthdays were both on December 4th. He was 1955 and I was 1957. Then we both found out we both were in inqubator's the first couple of weeks of our lives. How strange was that. I told him my mother worked for the law firm of Miller,Pitt and Feldman downtown. He told me his sister was an attorney and wanted to be a judge. I met her once. Well we became great friends over our days at Hughes and went out to the clubs a few times and hung out at each others houses now and then. He was a great guy. All we ever did is laugh constantly. He moved across the street to Bldg 808 to get into Engineering in 19 84 and I went to Bldg 841. So we started seeing less of each other but always kept in touch. I moved to Denver in 1986 and he wound up in Chandler. Well I am very sorry I won't get to see him again. Tom I guess I will see you in Heaven. I Love you my Friend.
Bill Steiner Denver, Colorado
Judi Snavely
February 18, 2016
I smile when I think of you. I miss your wisdom and our big brother/little sister talks. I miss your smile.
February 5, 2010
Oh my god..I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing...I knew Tom when I first moved to Arizona in the last 70s...I dated his brother Bob....I don't know how I came upon Tom's obituary..but I am deeply saddened...He was always so much fun to be around....I am truly sorry for the loss of the Kettlewell family.
My deepest sympathy...Sharon Snyder
Jim Stagman
March 18, 2009
Well Tommy, here it is 2 years and I am just adding my thoughts. I just got a couple of thoughts that made me smile. One was the softball games and all the fun we had playing them and afterwards. The other was a trip to the horse race track when you were in Penang. as I was driving into the parking lot, as the motorbikes would try to squeeze in front of me I would bump them a little with the car and they would get out of our way. You laughed so hard there were tears rolling down your checks. Thanks Tom so much for being a friend. Sorry it took me 2 years to write in the guest book. Love you man. Jimmy
Lindsey Wicks
March 13, 2008
It has been a year! Sometimes it feels like you were here just yesterday and other days it feels like you have been gone for 10 years. I know you are looking down and are so proud of all of us and what we have been able to accomplish this year. It has been the most rough year of my life but also my most successful because you are my motivation. Miss you and love you!
Judi Kettlewell-Snavely
February 26, 2008
Hey Big Brother, words can't express how much I miss you! It has been almost a year since you went up to be with mom. We're all doing okay, the holidays were hard
this past year. Keep smiling down on us, give mom a hug. Love Ya.
Alan Tinsley
April 2, 2007
I worked with Tom off and on over 16 years at Intel. Some of my fondest memories are the times he would convince me to stay with him at the beach hotel in Penang dispite the long morning commute. It was always worth it. I will never forget his humor & passion. He will be sorely missed.
Jack Gerstenfeld
March 30, 2007
Tom was a good friend in high school. I remember Tom for alot of firsts. The first and only time I ever drowned was in Tom's pool. My first lack of sobriety was with Tom. And, the first time I lost money playing cards, Tom was sitting across the table from me. Mostly, Tom was one of the first good friends I ever had. You know someone like Tom leaves a lasting impression when you haven't seen or heard from him in 30 years, yet the news of his passing leaves you deeply saddened and shocked. Sincere sympathy and condolences to Kristi and family.
Bob Pascente
March 30, 2007
Gramps,
This was one bet I didn't want you to win. You missed the best party ever on Thursday (yours), but you could have toned down the thunderstorm action a bit; very unusual for March. All of your friends, family, and the people you left impressions on throughout your life were there. The rememberances, stories, and "What nots" were exchanged all night long. The kids set up a facsimily of your nightstand, with a pack of Marlboros on one side, and a spent glass of Coke on the other (it wasn't there long enough to make one of your signature rings though....). The slide show of the various stages of your life was entertaining...I am missing you buddy. Peace out-
Janet Holmes
March 27, 2007
I do not know what the year was when I met Tom but I know he loved his cars. I remember him at the stop light at Chandler and Rural. He was in the classic orange Chevy and I was in my Mopar. See I bought the car and did not know how to tune the darn thing and Tom told me to stop by and he would show me. I did stop by and he did show me how to tune the car to peak performance, and then I had to let him drive it. My car had at the time was 1969 Road Runner with a 440 engine and Tom wanted to let those ponies run and I let him. It was the first and only time I had the car that it was driven the way it was ment to be run. So we were at the stop light by chance one day and well he teased me for years for how I choked at the start. I will always remember how kind Tom was to me and how that love of cars we both shared made a long and rememberial friendship which I will treasure. That was the way Tom was.
Tom and friends
Tom Dever
March 27, 2007
Tom was a blast to be around. Whenever we were together there was going to be a story to tell afterwards. I got to know Tom very well from traveling all over the world with him and I can say that he was a great man who loved his family and friends very much. I'm sad to see him leave us. We will keep Tom and his family in our prayers.
Kimberly Emminger
March 26, 2007
I will never look at my pool the same without thinking about Tom. After listening to me for months struggle with my dreaded "green" pool, Tom was able to trouble shoot from afar as we laughed at my absurdity, smoking cigarettes on the patio. Not only was he able to tell me what was wrong, but also was kind enough to give me the part I needed. From that day forward, He became my trusted source of information when I was completely clueless over home improvement. I swear… the man could fix anything! I feel blessed and deeply honored for having the chance to know Tom over the past few years at ON. My heart goes out to all of his friends and family as he will be deeply missed. I don’t think he realized but all of the generous and caring things he did for others really did matter. Tom - every time I empty my skimmer basket...I’ll always think of you.
Louise Williams
March 26, 2007
Tom was a unique man! He was my cubicle neighbor for quite a while and I suffered mandibular pains for laughing so hard at his own, very visual, rendition of events. Mostly, he was a true colleagues, always willing to not only help but teach you how to fish. He delighted in your success. He was not a quitter and he was a role model of patience. Even though, I have not seen him in a few years, I hold fantastic memories of him. Kristi and family, my sincere condoleances.
Heidi Kilian
March 23, 2007
Tom thank you for being you and welcoming me into your home always. You will be missed!
Donald Hauser
March 23, 2007
Tommy,
You little son of a gun. We are used to dealing with surprises not creating them. We've had 41 years of creating the stories that you shared with others. 41 years of laughing at adversity. The best part is that we have learned to open our hearts up and share that with others. As I told Suzie, there is no sadness here, you were happy. I am a little put off because I had dreams of buying a place in the White mtns. and having someone to goof off with. Seems that you reached your dreams first.
Always in love,
Donald
Melinda Ball
March 23, 2007
My love goes to the entire family. I so enjoyed working, laughing and always having a great time with Tom and his family. Please contact me if there is anything you need. He will be missed but never forgotten, he brightened my life and made it worth coming to work. Melinda Ball
Mark Smock
March 23, 2007
Tom was a good friend, collegue and best of all a good person. He truly was a person that you could trust and it was an honor to have known him. I know he cared very much for his family and my prayers go out to them.
Bob Baker
March 23, 2007
Tom influenced my life in 1988 while I was working as a tech at Intel. At the time I was working in the lab largely zapping parts for ESD testing. During Tom's visits to the lab we shared our experiences in the Air Force and other various topics. Tom's biggest impact to my life was his enthusiastic suggestion to finish my degree at his alumni, U of A. I did, and we remained acquantances through the years at Intel until I left in 2002. I am greatly saddened, and my deepest condolences for his family and friends.
JJ Roberts
March 23, 2007
It was honor to meet Tom and to have him as a friend. Good People!
My prayers and thoughts to his family.
Karen Gildersleeve
March 23, 2007
I first knew Tom when I was just starting out at UoFA. I was in the same dorm as Susie. I spent a lot of time in the company of Susie, Patty, Judi, and Jean. It was a pleasant surprise when I discovered that Tom and I both worked at ON. I sought him out and we renewed a long ago friendship. I am truly sorry that I never met Tom's Phoenix family. I know that he will be sorely missed and I can only reiterate what I heard so many times last night - live large Tom! Gilders
Vernon Wilson
March 23, 2007
Tom Kettlewell - A Man, a Father, a Friend, a Mentor in the true sense of the words. If you ever met Tom just once, chances are, you are a part of this Man's Legacy that will live on forever.
Thank you for being a presence in my life for 20 yrs. Kristi & Family, my sincere condolences.
Andrea Acuna
March 22, 2007
My deepest condolences to Tom's family and friends. Tom was instrumental in helping guide my career path as my interviewer and supporter for a position at Intel. His guidance and support for a fellow Wildcat will not be forgotten.
Thank you Tom. You will be missed.
JB Quintos
March 22, 2007
I met Tom during our superbowl trip to florida this february, and I could tell that he was caring, fun, honest, and a was person who could carry himself well in any situation. We only stayed less than 3 days for the trip, but I was amazed during the bus ride that the rowdy guys(and one guy they called 'borat') at the back of the bus already knew and were were joking around with Tom, it was like a Saturday Night Live skit on the bus with Tom and those guys. I wish that I got a chance to know him more, I will include Tom in my prayers.
CA Lim
March 22, 2007
Tom is a great partner and counterpart to Penang, we've all the memorale moment spent together back the good old day of PG PDQRE during our microcontrollers, I/O processors, automotive era. His stories, sense of humor and friendship will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences to Kristi and family.
Kelly Stacy
March 22, 2007
I met Tom in 1988 and didn’t quite know what to think at first. I remember playing in a softball tournament then. I was standing next to him in left field during the game with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth and a drink in his throwing hand. I was thinking this guy can’t be serious. Every time the ball was hit to him he’d set his drink down and take off running. He caught everything, threw out a few people and hit safely at every at bat. We became good friends. I had the pleasure to work for Tom after that and he taught me more about life than anyone I can remember. . I remember receiving my performance review in Vegas and trips to Japan to straighten out customer issues. There were no rules or one right way to do anything as long as it is done right. To Tom everything in life was a “guideline” which meant it could be challenged, changed, removed or just down right ignored. I remember all the high school football games, watching Kadie’s Jr. High basketball games and of course all the stories. Tom was a fun loving family man and true compassion for people. Tom taught me that no matter what is happening around you, keep your head and always remember what’s important to you. If keep those things close to you you’ll always be fine. My deepest sincere condolences to his family. I’ll miss him tremendously.
Phyllis Rathbone
March 22, 2007
I knew Tom at Intel and as he was transitioning to ON. He was always ready with a joke or a smile and the smile only got bigger whenever he talked about his family, truly a joy to know him. I know he will be missed and I can only wish for his family and friends to know that his wonderful legacy lives on every time they gather and remember him.
Emilio Polo
March 22, 2007
I first met Tom in 1988 when I while I was working in the Burn-in group at Intel. Tom would bring his Qual products to be stressed along with his good stories and sense of humor, even during stressful times. One story from Tom that few people may know is that he taught my cube partner at ATD how to slide down the stairs sitting on the rails (I hope that no one from ERT is reading). That's the kind of person that Tom was. He always have fun, treated everyone with respect and gained the respect and admiration of everyone that met him. He is going to be missed. My sincere condolences to his wife, kids and family.
Bill Brown
March 22, 2007
I will always remember Tom for the stories he told out on the Intel patios...if only those trees could talk! Tom was a fun guy to be around. He was taken from us way too soon, and he will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Alex Rios
March 22, 2007
I'll always remember Tom for his great sense of humor and great personality. He will be sorely missed. My prayers go out to his family. Rest in peace Tom.
Gail Johnson
March 22, 2007
I remember Tom for his laugther, even if he was upset. I would ocassionally run into his orange classic Chevy and honk, knowing the driver would wave back w a smile. Many here at Intel miss Tom. I know he's still smiling!
Judy Schwab
March 22, 2007
I remember when Tom joined Intel and our Q&R organization many years ago. What a great addition he was. We became good friends right away. Over the years Greg and I spent a lot of lunches at The Stadium Club with Tom, betting on the dogs, laughing, keeping up with the kids, and telling stories. We now have a couple of favorite restaurants in Tucson thanks to him, and a number of Indian rugs and baskets in our home thanks to him. Kristi, Lindsey, Dave, and Kadie we all share in your loss.
Don Hardenbrook
March 22, 2007
Tom always seemed to be having fun and had a twinkle in his eye. I will forever picture him in his orange Chevy muscle car heading out of the Intel parking lot to something fun and crazy. I'm saddened that I never got the chance to know him better.
Paul Lang
March 22, 2007
I had the pleasure of working with Tom for many years at Intel. I will always remember his positive outlook, seemingly unending supply of rich and funny stories and his incredible work ethic. Tom had the rare ability to "connect" with most everyone he encountered. My thoughts and prayers to Kristi and all of Tom's family and friends at this difficult time.
Steve Orokos
March 22, 2007
Like Tom, I also started at Intel in 1987 and soon afterwards had the wonderful experience of being his cube mate. He was such a powerful influence on me in those early yrs, taught me that work can be rewarding and fun at the same time. I remember one trip we made together to Santa Clara in 1990 for Trillium training, we breezed through the classes in the morning and in the afternoon we explored north of the golden gate bridge tracing some of his earlier steps where he delivered flowers to the likes of Grace Slick.
Brian Bingold
March 22, 2007
Tom,
20 year friends, college co-travelers and co-workers. You took me under your wings as a summer intern at Hughes Aircraft Company and taught me many lessons about life along the road we traveled. Together with our wifes, we have many great memories of times we were together playing silly games (pass me by..) and watching each others children grow up into wonderful young adults. You leave a legacy of life lessons for those that were fortuntate enough to have known you. Lessons about leadership, friendship, loyalty, and how to have fun in all you do. We will miss you and your natural gift to laugh, help and to lift others.
God Bless you and your family. Will miss you.
Michael Intrieri
March 22, 2007
I will always remember Tom as a passionate person in everyting he did. In each momemt he was vibrant in his beliefs. He has left me with this legacy and I sorely miss him. I will always count him as a friend. My condolences to Kristy and family.
Sudhama Shastri
March 22, 2007
In my first conversation with Tom at work, sometime in 2004, he revealed that he had the ability to walk into a meeting and sense hidden undercurrents and tensions. He used this gift to smooth over ruffled feathers and keep an organization motivated and cohesive. I was amazed at the number of people in all levels of the organization that had personal friendships with him. He was humble to a fault - on the day before his untimely passing I stopped by to get a signature and light-heartedly addressed him as "Senior VP," a title that had just been bestowed, for a role he had played for some months. He grinned and said, "I wish they would stop displaying my photo on the company's internal webpage! It is somewhat unsettling to look at myself whenever I fire up the browser." I will miss his bonhomie, his laughter, his booming voice and his sense of humour.
Chris Creamer
March 21, 2007
So many great memories come to mind as I sit here thinking about Tom. I first met Tom when I joined Intel and was looking for a softball team to play on. That was some time ago, now that I think about it 17+ years. Tom found a spot for me and made me feel right at home with his smile and joking ways. Since that time I have worked for Tom, had a few drinks and made a few bets with Tom, played a few rounds of gold with Tom, spent some time at Tom's cabin with some good friends. My most vivid and recent memory of Tom was standing on the sideline at a high school football game at half time. We talked and he told me great stories about many of the players that were now playing for the high school. He had coached many of them when they were youngsters playing Pop Warner football. Tom remembered all of their names, what positions they played and recalled incidents that happened to them while he was coaching. He had a twinkle in his eye as he told the stories almost as if each kid was his own. He called out their names as they ran on the field and each one would look over and smile. You could see the respect in their eyes. Tom had so much passion for life and for his family. Tom touched so many lives and had so much more to give which makes him leaving us so much harder to understand. I am a better person for having known Tom and will surely miss him.
My deepest condolences to Christy and family for your loss.
Ed Drescher
March 21, 2007
I met Tom when he became a product engineer on the 80960 products and I was the planner, some 18 or so years ago. As everyone else did, I quickly found out that not only was he a really good engineer, but he was a really great guy to know and work with. Whenever I needed someone to explain to me in English what all those technical acronyms and engineering terms meant, he was the first person I called. Tom was always happy to help and he made it fun with his remarkable sense of humor. He was a friend who treated people with humor, respect, and honesty. Tom will always be one of the good guys I remember with great appreciation, a smile on my face, and a pain in his back. He will be missed by everyone that knew him.
John Hall
March 21, 2007
Tom,
We will miss you. You had a way about you that was enviable. It was like you knew all the big secrets and had all this heavy stuff we have to deal with all figured out. You saw the humor in the universe. You left too soon and should have shared that info with us a little better.
Vaya con dios, amigo.
John Hall
Judi Kettlewell Snavely
March 21, 2007
My brother was such an important part of my life. He was a crazy "kid" growing up. Tom taught me several things, how to laugh, to
take one day at a time, not to let
things bother me, how to play craps, and so much more. Tom was always on the go, but if you needed to talk to him or get his advice you would have his full attention.
Tom's with my mom now, and I know they're having a great time together. I will miss Tom so very much, I will hold on to our memories as kids and his wisdom as
adults. Love and kisses Tom.
Lori Suriano
March 21, 2007
I will always have fond memories of Tom. We crossed many paths over the years. We both attended UofA and were in a few classes together. We both worked at Hughes Aircraft in Tucson prior to working at Intel. I worked for Tom in a couple of different groups at Intel. Tom was a pleasure to work for and with. He left Intel a few years before me. I just talked to him a few months ago. Just before I left Intel he called to wish me well and provided words of encouragement. That call really meant alot to me. Thanks Tom! My sincere condolences to Kristi and family and my prayers are with you.
Stephen Whalley
March 21, 2007
I worked with Tom some 17 years ago when I came to the US and Intel from the UK and he certainly made you feel welcome and part of the team very quickly. His smile and laughter was contagious and always made the job fun despite the intensity and deadline pressures. It’s so sad to see a great and much loved guy go ‘home’ so soon. My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family.
Carolyn Ika (King)
March 21, 2007
Tom and I worked together for most of his years at Intel on product validation. He was always intense which made it fun. He was always there when needed and helpded allot on building my Engineering knowledge. I have often thought of Tom since he left Intel.
Micki King
March 21, 2007
Tom has been such a great friend. We met only eight years ago but it seems like he has been there forever. He has taught me so many things in all facets of my life. Many times I have thought if I could only be as strong as Tom, as companionate as Tom, as forgiving as Tom. He was always someone I could turn to for advice with no fear of judgment. Tom’s life and his words will forever guide me.
Micki King
John McMahon
March 21, 2007
Tom was a larger than life character, and leaves a large void in this world. I have fond memories of many quarteriles, and trips to Penang. I still smile at one of our trips to the Kashmir, baiting the RCG's into hitting on the waitress, the waitress that we used to know when he was a waiter. Tom was also impossible to beat in a drinking contest ! I tried several times to my stupidity. Always smiling, always uplifting. And someone who could appreciate sarcasm :-) Tom has left us with quite a legacy of many happy thoughts and times. He will be greatly and dearly missed. Condolences.
Kelli McNatt
March 21, 2007
Tom was one of the best. After many years in the industry, I have come across only a few who leave a mark like him. His smile and sense of humor will be miseed by all. My condolences to Tom's family.
Heidi Kilian
March 21, 2007
Tom thank you for being you and welcoming me into your home always. You will be missed!
pr patel
March 21, 2007
I was fortunate to have worked with him for many years at Intel. The two of us got to travel together on a Biz trip to Asia and we spent 14 days going thru 7 countries, and stayed at 7 different hotels. On that trip I got to know him more as a person, heard about his family, sat thru a lot of jokes and we did some heavy sight seeing. And we talked about the good old Intel days. The thing i remember most from that trip was when a bunch of school girls at Osaka's Sunday market thought he was Kevin Costner and asked for his autograph (not suprising since he had long hair, was tall and handsome , and he was wearing his trademark long leather jacket). I can see him smiling even today at a smoking patio or i see him driving his orange car down Chandler Blvd, always with a smile. Miss you Tom.
Don Zaremba
March 21, 2007
Over twenty three years at Motorola and ON, I worked with and for many different people. Tom was among the very best. And he drove the coolest car in the lot! I know years from now something will remind me of Tom and a smile will come to my face. My condolences to Tom's family.
James White
March 21, 2007
Tom will be missed by family members and the many friends who were fortunate enough to get to know him. He left a big mark on us and this physical world we live in will just not be the same without him. Although this is a sad time, I can not help but smile when I think of his wit, that never-ending positive attitude, and all those great stories. Tom lived life to the fullest in both his professional and personal life.
Cheers Tom, we will miss you!
Heather Loveday
March 21, 2007
I met Tom at ON Semi in the "smoking garden". Tom always made the girls and I laugh or we were making him laugh. His presence was always joyous. His love for his family and life was ever present. All my memories of Tom include laughter. My prayers and love go out to his family, friends, and coworkers.
Steve Robb
March 21, 2007
Tom was the only guy I know who could pull off being a Senior VP and still be a guy who would stop you in the hall to bull crap. At a spring training game for the D'Backs Tom got me into this betting thing where you would pick some guy and bet a quarter on whether or not he would get a hit. It was a riot and it turned a rather boring game into an event. I won a whole 50 cents but, of course, never figured to collect. The very next day Tom comes up to me in the hall and gives me two quarters. What a kick that he would even remember and that started us laughing about it all over again. Tom was truly one of a kind and I'll miss him terribly.
Ronald Wright
March 21, 2007
Tom Kettlewell, a deeply caring individual. Thanks for all the patio stories!
Brad Didericksen
March 21, 2007
I first met Tom back in May of 1988 at Intel during new employee orientation. I’m sure my first impressions of Tom were very similar to most people that meet him for the first time. Funny, honest, genuine, generous, passionate and a little crazy are just a few words that I can best describe Tom to someone that did not know him. Over the years I have been fortunate to call Tom a co-worker, manager and friend. He was a role model for all managers and brought out the best in his people. He was a great leader and we would follow him into a burning house because you knew you were in good hands. No matter how high Tom continued to climb the corporate ladder he remained the same “old” Tom. He did not treat you any different after all of his success. I have many memories outside work of playing golf, trips to Laughlin, Vegas and hanging out at Stadium Club. I’m so thankful that I was able to have one last golf trip with him and other close friends up at his cabin last September. We all had a great time…… I will miss my friend…… Tom, thank you for all of the laughs and memories over the past 19 years. I will always hear your unique laugh in my head and it will make me smile. I know that I am a better person having known you….
Debbie Compton
March 21, 2007
Tom,
Thanks for all the great talks on the patio and smart remarks in the staff meetings!!
You will be missed by many and cherished by all! Thanks for being such a great person! Oh and by the way – the candy in your office was always awesome!
Vicki Housley Wolf
March 21, 2007
From everyone at PV High School, we are crushed to hear of Tommy's death. What a character he was. Everyone adored him and we will cherish his memory. Our thoughts are with his family at this tragic time. Know he was ALWAYS loved!
Jorge Polo
March 21, 2007
I remember Tom for his laugther, even if he was upset. Until recently, I would ocassionally run into his orange classic Chevy and honk, knowing the driver would wave back w a smile. Many here at Intel miss Tom. I know he's still smiling!
Ryan Hurley
March 21, 2007
I have had the opportunity to work for Tom for the past couple of years and have enjoyed his leadership, character and good natured humor during this time. He was the kind of guy you get to work for once in a life time. We will deeply miss him and our thoughts and prayers will be for his family.
Sue Nee
March 21, 2007
Tom drove a bright orange muscle car with white racing stripes! He didn’t ever just show up, he came prepared to win and have fun while doing it. My condolences to Tom’s family.
Manfred Reysser
March 21, 2007
Tom, when you joined Intel, we both worked for the same guy. It quickly became clear that you were fun to work with, had your head screwed on right and your heart in the right place. You never beat around the bush and you always remembered your friends. It's very sad that you had to leave us already.
Donnie Stewart
March 21, 2007
I saw Tom at work(Intel), however, I met Tom at the Stadium Club. As we got to know each other I developed an appreciation for his thoughts on cars, family and keeping career in perspective. Im sorry to hear about his passing and my prayers go out to his family.
Greg. Schwab
March 21, 2007
I first met Tom when he joined Intel and he quickly became one of the best friends my wife, Judy, and I ever had. Tom had a zeal for life that shined like a light. He was always there to help, whether it was business or personal. I will always carry Tom in my heart as one of my best friends and someone who made a real difference in my life. I miss him. My deepest sympathy to Kristi and family. Although I cannot attend the memorial service, please know that I am there in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike Iannitti
March 21, 2007
Tom was a great person and good friend. I had the pleasure to work with him for more than 10 years and got to know him well. You could always count on Tom to make you smile. He was an honest man who always spoke his mind. He will be sorely missed by all of us.
Jody Robinson/Charter
March 21, 2007
I went thru high school with Tom and knew his family well. I'm very sad to read about his loss of life at such a young age. Tom definitely had an unforgettable character. I will always remember him fondly.
Peter Wilson
March 21, 2007
I will remember Tom as a man that I want to aspire to. Tom had a gift that made you feel comfortable and loved to tell stories. With my own father passing a year ago, Tom was always there when I needed to talk with him. He will be missed tremendously. He was a pleasure to work for and a wonderful mentor. My thoughts and prayers got to his family.
Thomas Bambury
March 21, 2007
It has been a absolute pleasure working with Tom for the last few years. He had the ability to lead with conviction while always maintaining a sense of humor. He will be missed.
Lindsey Wicks
March 21, 2007
Tom was the greatest dad I could have asked for.
Kyle Evers
March 21, 2007
I was blessed to have met and worked with Tom at Intel. Tom's combination of in-depth knowledge, high integrity and passion made it a joy to work with him. His passion for his family and zest for life is definitely an inspiration. Tom, we will miss you!
Debra Cohen
March 21, 2007
Tommy, Tommy, Tommy,
You will be missed so much! I met Tom 14 yrs ago at Intel as his planner on many projects. Tom was so fun to work with, he made the job easier having a fun loving, down to earth Engineer to work with. He shared so many stories, like going outside at home and cracking his whip in the trees to snap off the leaves, he got a big kick getting a rise out of the kids. He shared all of his back problem stories, as my other half had the same surgeries, but he still enjoyed life to the fullest! His back problems didn't keep him down too long. Tom's passion for life out weighed any back problem. Tom's laughter was contagious! Listening to his stories, you could listen for hours. Tom will live through our hearts of many memories. I'm gald I had the pleasure of knowing him, and working with him. My comfort and prayers to Kristi and the family.
Gail Feeny
March 21, 2007
I'll remember Tom with a smile on my face as he always made me laugh. Even when we swapped bad back and surgery stories, despite the pain I knew first hand he was experiencing, Tom always had something clever and up beat to say. Tom will be greatly missed.
Michael Stevens
March 21, 2007
Tom, you lived your life with a zeal and passion that will not be forgotten. I pray your passion is a testimony to all of us remaining behind to cherish our final days. You will be missed my friend!
Tom Cole
March 21, 2007
Tom and I worked together from the time he started at Intel. We had a lot in common, Names, interest in our work, cars, and the break area. We went to his house one time to check the progress on the frame off retoration of his truck. I was jealous that he had that much time to work on it. My kids were older and his were pretty young then. I told him when the kids got older they would take up more of his time. I have recently heard that his truck is still in progress and so is my project car, twenty years later. A few years back, I lost my wife to a car accident. Recently I started to think about doing some of the things I had put off in life. I always had some reason that I couldn't go on the San Diego fishing trip with Tom and some other friends. This year I was decided that I would go. Missed it by one year. I'll miss Tom a lot too.
Alan Ball
March 21, 2007
Tom was a great leader who really listened to those around him. He had common sense, mixed in with a great sense of humer. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Jose Torres
March 21, 2007
I worked at Intel in the same departments as Tom but unfortunately only after he left them. I am struck by the resounding respect and admiration that I encountered and feel for him as a person and his decisions and integrity. I enjoyed talking with him and his invitations to have a beer after work, and the world is a much poorer place without him.
My deepest sympathies to his family.
Let us honor him by doing things he did, and try to do it with the same twinkle in your eyes.
Jim Young
March 21, 2007
My life has been enriched and I am very lucky to have had the chance to know Tom.
Joseph Gaetano
March 21, 2007
Im glad I got to eat with you one last time Tom. I rememeber you had a baked potato , David and I had french fries, and kristy had her fryed cucumbers. You were a real man of the house. I always admired you for that. Goodbye Tom
Pat Heisler
March 21, 2007
I spent many 'breaks' smoking and laughing with Tom. His stories were told with such vigor that one felt like they were a part of the scene. Tom is unforgettable. He left a very big footprint. God bless the family in their grief.
Rosemary Ramirez
March 21, 2007
May memories bring peace
..of the beautiful times
...whisper their way into your heart and bring you peace.
We will miss Tom and all the contributions he gave to his company and his friends here at ON Semi.
with Sympathy
Linda Rogers
March 21, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Ann Heisler
March 21, 2007
I can't say that I knew Tom well, but I did sit and talk with him a few times throughout his years at Intel. One thing that comes to mind when I think of him is... when he talked about his family, his eyes would sparkle. Tom had passion in many areas of his life. He will be missed by many!
Terry Keay
March 21, 2007
Tom was an amazing person and he will be missed tremendously. He was a very compasionate, strong and funny man, both at work and at home! He was a pleasure to work for and with and have as a friend in my life over the past 15 years. I was so fortunate to have been touched by Tom in my life and I will always have wonderful memories of him. My thoughts and prayers got to Kristi and his family.
Jenny Marble
March 21, 2007
Tom,
Thank you so much for everything you have done for us! You will be in my heart forever! Love you
Phyllis Wickware
March 21, 2007
Tom will be remembered by my husband and myself with the fondest thoughts. He was an upstanding, honest man with exceptional integrity. No matter what the situation, Tom would deal with it with both wisdom and humor. A good man that will be missed by many!
Tom and some of his Staff playing golf in early March 07'
Ryan Zahn
March 20, 2007
For the last year I reported directly to Tom at ON. His compassion, humor, humility, and kindness will be remembered by many people. He has taught me countless lessons. For work, first and foremost that you can be a strong leader and yet a compassion, funny, and caring human being. And for life, family always comes first. Tom will be very missed.
Showing 1 - 85 of 85 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Kettlewell's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Kettlewell
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
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 more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Kettlewell'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
