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Thomas Lee "Tommy" Paz

Thomas Paz Obituary

Thomas "Tommy" Lee Paz passed away on Monday June 18th while on vacation in Santa Cruz California. Tommy was a loved son, brother, nephew, and cousin. Tommy attended Bourgade Catholic High School and would have been a junior next year. Tommy loved the Lord and shared his faith with many. Tommy was the child of Gary and Cecelia Paz brother to Sammy Paz, Sandra Paz, Christina Paz, and Thomas Combs (Stacey). Tommy had a huge family of aunt's, uncles, cousins, and friends too numerous to list. Tommy was compassionate, loving selfless and humble young man. Tommy loved baseball, football and Saint Louis Cardinals Baseball. Tommy excelled in athletics and in his first year of varsity football was recognized honorable mention all-region team. Tommy could light up the room with his smile. Tommy's life was cut short in a senseless act of violence. Son, you were only with us a short time your spirit will remain with us forever. You are our Superman. A Visitation will be held, Tuesday, June 26, 2007 from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM, with a Rosary to begin at 7:00 PM at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N 59th Ave in Glendale, AZ. A Funeral Mass will be Wednesday, June 27, 2007, 10:00 AM at St. Simon and Jude Cathedral, 6351 N 27th Ave in Phoenix, AZ. Burial to follow at Holy Redeemer Cemetery.

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Published by The Arizona Republic from Jun. 24 to Jun. 25, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Paz

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Patrica Rensing

July 21, 2007

Dearest Gary & Cecelia:

It was with a sadden heart that I learned today of the passing of your son, Tommy. Meeting him, and renewing old friendships during my February visit is a treasured memory.

My prayers are with you. No sense can be made of such a tragedy, but know you will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

I am hugging you now,

Patricia [Patti] Rensing
Hoyleton, Illinois

Brittany Losada

July 14, 2007

Dear Paz Family,

I am so sorry to hear about the lost of Tommy. He is a great person and he soul will always live on through the family, friends, and memories he has left behind. There has not been a day in my life that i dont think of Tommy. He will forever be missed and loved. Just as Tommy was always hear for anyone when they needed a helping hand Tommy is still hear for us today and he will be our guardian angel whenever we need him to lead the way. There is no one in this world that could ever replace Tommy he was so great and wonderful and the passion he had for baseball was unbelievable. I love you Tom and miss you everyday. Paz family we are here whenever you need anything and stay strong. We will always be here to keep you up and to have a shoulder to lean on.

Tommy,
Hey man. I am sorry we didnt keep in touch more like we used to. I think, miss, and love you everyday. You have positivly impacked my life and I am so thankful for every memory I got to share with you. Please watch over me and all and be our guardian angel. We love you so much.

Tina Ramirez

July 7, 2007

Dear Gary, Cecelia, Sandra, Sammy, and Christina,

I am truly sorry that Tommy did have to leave us on short notice. He was only 17 and was on his way to fullfill great dreams. However he was taken away by an act of violence. No matter what Tommy will be missed in everyone for the rest of our school life and lives.
Not only was he a great athlete but also a great person and friend towards others. The fact that Tommy did make a difference in everyone is by making them come closer. It truly is a thing of wanting to believe this or just to know that when school starts that he will be there. He is not going to be there physically but he will be there to guide his class to graduation and to succeed in their dreams and to his family that he will always be around watching and protecting the family that he loves. Tommy will most certainly be missed but he will never be gone from our memories. I'm sorry you left us soon Tommy. You didn't deserve it for you were only a teen who did experience many and great things. Rest in Peace Tommy!!

Tina Ramirez

July 7, 2007

Dear Gary, Cecilia, Sandra, Sammy, and Christina,

I am truly sorry that Tommy did have to leave us on short notice. He was only 17 and was on his way to fullfill great dreams. However he was taken away by an act of violence. No matter what Tommy will be missed in everyone for the rest of our school life and lives.
Not only was he a great athlete but also a great person and friend towards others. The fact that Tommy did make a difference in everyone is by making them come closer. It truly is a thing of wanting to believe this or just to know that when school starts that he will be there. He is not going to be there physically but he will be there to guide his class to graduation and to succeed in their dreams and to his family that he will always be around watching and protecting the family that he loves. Tommy will most certainly be missed but he will never be gone from our memories. I'm sorry you left us soon Tommy. You didn't deserve it for you were only a teen who did experience many and great things. Rest in Peace Tommy!!

Sadie Morales

July 5, 2007

I would like to express my condolences to the whole Paz
family. I was watching 12 news this morning and was listening to the story about the 4 Paz children being adopted.
I myself adopted two children and realize what a gift it is to be able to raise children. Adopted children are special. I cannot imagine what the Paz family is going through.
May God extend his arms around all of you and give you strength in the days to come.

Nick Sawyer

July 3, 2007

Tommy you were always such a good friend to me. Whenever i seemed to be down you would ask me whats wrong and talk to me about it. I wish i could talk to you one more time but the good memories of you and the volvo will have to do hahahahaha. Ill miss you man i love you RIP.

To the Paz family, you guys are a great family and this should have never happened but due to this stupid act of violence your son and my friend was taken from us. But as i have heard Gary say before we should not mourn his passing but remember how great a person he was. I love you all.

Brittany S

July 2, 2007

Tommy,
I am so sorry tommy that this happend to you. You did not deserve this at all. You were a good guy n it was not your time. I am really going to miss seeing your smiling face everyday coming to our lunch table just to say "hey". I love you Tommy and you will be greatly missed. Rest In Peace!!

Dona Rae

June 28, 2007

To the Paz Family~~~
You don't know me...but I feel the sorrow with you.
When I heard of this tragic news, through friends in Santa Cruz, my heart immediately broke for you all.
I am so VERY sorry such a senseless loss of such a beautiful life has taken place.
You are in my thoughts and prayers...

Camille

June 28, 2007

I didnt know tommy very well but my little sister went to school and grew up with jyler. I am so sorry for your loss no parent deserves to have to put their kids to rest in such a way. Know that the city of santa cruz is mourning for your loss as well, May the lord bless you and keep you!

Donna & Kristi Scott

June 28, 2007

Dearest Paz Family,

Our love and heartfelt sympathies go out to you in the loss of Tommy. Tommy will be remembered for the wonderful friend he was to so many students at Bourgade Catholic. May God Bless you and keep you safe. We are here for you.

Nancy Petree

June 27, 2007

To the Paz Family,
May God give you peace and comfort during this difficult time. May you find strength in the memories you have. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Jeanne Brandner

June 27, 2007

Tommy ~

Your tragic death has deeply affected family, friends, and communities. Nobody will be able to "lighten" the mood in Algebra class quite like you, your smile and laughter will be greatly missed. I hope that everyone will continue to model the compassion and forgiveness that radiates from you and your family. May the wonderful memories of your great life help heal the broken hearts. We are all fortunate to have had you in our life! May you rest in peace as you watch over us. You will never be forgotten!

Gary, Cecelia, Christina, Sammy, and Sandra we are very sorry for your loss!

Aubrie Brandner and Family

Michael Weikamp

June 27, 2007

Dear Paz Family,
I'm so sorry for all that has happened. Tommy did not deserve this. He was one of the nicest and funniest guys i know. R.I.P. Tommy we love u! See you sometime soon.

Reaid & Tanya Leonard

June 26, 2007

We are so sorry to hear about Tommy. Please let us know if you need anything. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you and keep you strong during this difficult time.

the Mitchell family

June 26, 2007

We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Our hearts go out to you. May God shine his light down on your family to help you through this tragic time in your life.

Rachael Mondloch

June 26, 2007

Dear Paz family,
I met Tommy once and he was so nice to me. he gave me and a friend a ride to one of the dimondbacks game. We had so much fun. I wont ever forget that night. He is very muched missed. I will be praying for him and your family.

.

June 26, 2007

I didnt know tommy. Ive never even spoke a word to him, but i remember seeing him around. He was always laughing with friedns, and seemed like a good person to be around. My prayers go out to all his family and friends. Tragedies like these come seldome at Bourgade, but when they do..they effect everyone.

Elijah Barrera

June 26, 2007

Dear Paz Family,

I have known all of you for about 7 years now and have attended St. Louis the King and Bourgade with Tommy. He was an amazing young man on and off the playing field. I have had the privilege to play sports with Tommy all throughout these seven years. It is sad to see him go at such a young age. He had a bright future ahead of him and just like that a random act of violence took that from him. I know that he is looking down and watching over us. I just want to say that I am truely sorry for the loss of your son and brother. I will keep you all in my prayers. If you ever need anything please feel free to contact me. May God Bless You And Your Family.

Paul Demarbiex and family

June 26, 2007

Even though I didn't really know Tommy, after hearing everyone talk about him, I kind of feel like I know him a little better now. May you rest in peace now Tommy

To the Paz family,
I am very sorry for your loss. May God grant you peace of heart and hold all of you close to him at this time of mourning.

R.I.P. Tommy

Luis Montes

June 26, 2007

Man this is so much crap that your gone Tommy. But you will be rembered by everyone. and baseball and football at bourgade will remeber you everytime we step onto the field.

Ian Herrera

June 26, 2007

To the Paz family,

I am very sorry for your loss, Tommy was a great kid Bourgade Catholic High School ever had. He will be missed by many.
My sympathy and sincere condolences go out to all of Tommy's family.

May Tommy watch over all of us who miss him deeply especially to all of the Paz Family.

Ian Herrera (Goodyear, AZ)
Current student at Bourgade Catholic High School.
Soon to be senior at Bourgade.

Tangela

June 26, 2007

Words cannot describe the way I feel at this moment... I am still overwhelmed by the loss of Tommy. Although he is gone, his spirit will be with us until we are reunited in the after life. To the family of Tom- stay strong. You will be in my prayers.

Phillip Turner

June 26, 2007

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

George and Lisa Vyles

June 26, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please know that we think of you and pray that God will comfort you at this time. All of our love, The Vyles Family

Siboney Garcia

June 26, 2007

To the Paz Family:
We are very sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to your family. You are in our prayers.

Tommy was a great, funny, loving guy. I didn't know him that well, but i did know he was a great friend. He always cheered people up and didn't like to see people sad. He will be missed.
-Alexandria Celaya
The Garcia/Celaya Family

Pattie Figueroa

June 26, 2007

Dearest Paz Family,
There are no words to discribe the loss you are feeling... Our daughter Rachael just graduated from BCHS last month and we have son who is going into the 5th grade
at Saint Simon and Jude School...
I myself have been on the School
Board at BCHS for the last 3 years.
I feel God wanted Tommy back to do
even greater things for him...
He is not gone he lives on in spirt
and will always always be there.
I know its easier said then done,
I lost my father a few years back...There are no words to describe that feeling....Please remember your family are in our prayer's and we ask God to help you
in all that you need.

Peace and Blessings
Mike, Pattie, Rachael, Matthew,
Alex Figueroa.... And Mickey Bruns

Veronica Obregon-Meyer

June 26, 2007

Paz Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Tommy was one of the most wonderful young men we have come across in such a long time. We had the honor of meeting him thru my little sisters (the twins). He always made me laugh and would be so sweet when he would ask for a ride home. Yes, I would give him a hard time and tell him there would be a fee and he would pay me in hugs. He was with you and all of us for such a short time but has left an impact that will last a lifetime. You should be proud of the wonderful young man you brought into all of our lives. May God bless you during this time.
Tommy, you will be missed and will remain forever loved. May you rest in peace sweetheart.

Veronica and Johnathan Meyer and Family

Katherine Schindewolf

June 26, 2007

Gary, Cecelia & the entire Paz family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I wish I could compose the right words to bring comfort to you and to help ease your pain.

With much love,

James & Katherine (Fallon) Schindewolf

Tonie Monarres

June 26, 2007

To All the Family of Tommy. My Sincere Condolences,and Prayers for you all.May you find comfort in knowing that alot of persons care.

Jose

June 26, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

Penny Cotter

June 26, 2007

To the Paz Family & Freinds,
Just wanted to send Love and prayers for all of you. I have been thinking about all of you this past week. I am very saddend for what has happened at one of our most beautiful treasured places. I will think of Tommy and your family everytime I visit 26th Ave. beach. Have a peaceful day.
Sending Love from Santa Cruz,
Penny

8th Grade Halloween Dance - St. Louis the King

Eileen & Bryan Burgoz and Family

June 25, 2007

Gary & Cecelia,
Thank you for sharing Tommy's life with so many. I know you are proud of him and proud to be his parents. You are all such amazing people. Bubba has always looked up to Tommy. Gary, you and Tommy were always there for Bubba when sports were his dream, you both kept his confidence high and never gave up. Our daughter, Jacki, idolizes Sandra, and she is extremely saddened for all of you in your loss. I pulled an old picture of Tommy from the 8th grade Halloween dance. Those kids had such a great time. Memories they will carry always.

May you feel Tommy's spirit in a ray of sunshine on your cheek and a breeze in your hair. God Bless You, Paz Family.

Bubba Burgoz

June 25, 2007

Dear Paz Family,
The day I heard of Tommy was tragic. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Tommy was my great friend and my oldest baseball teammate. He taught me so musch as did Gary in my days at SLK. With out you and Tommy I wouldn't be the player I am today. I'm honored to play the same position as Tommy did. He will be missed and I will think of him everytime I step onto a baseball field for the rest of my life. He was a strong and confident young man. I'm glad I had the chance to be his friend. If you guys need anything please let me know. Sammy, stay strong bro. All of you will be in my prayers. I love you guys.

Stacy (Petree) Stavro

June 25, 2007

To the Paz Family,
My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy and mourn the loss of Tommy. Though his life was cut very short, I know that Tommy was blessed with a wonderful, loving family; and the Paz Family was blessed with a fine young man who will truely be missed by all who knew him. May you find comfort and strength in the memories you shared with him. May God give you peace and surround you with wonderful friends and family during this difficult time.

Anni Herring

June 25, 2007

To The Entire Paz Family and Gary,
Gary-As I watched the news the other evening I was deeply saddened and shocked to see you talking about your beloved son that was taken from you much to soon. I cried for you and your family. I am praying that you may find peace in this difficult time. Sending Love, Light and Prayers.
An old friend from the past.
Anni(formerly Craig)Herring

Margie Kelly (McPhilomy)

June 25, 2007

To Gary, Cecilia, Sammy, Christina, Sandra, and big Tom,
I remember Tommy (and all you kids) from the days you first came to your new home, next door to ours. I can't imagine how heavy your hearts must feel right now, but for some reason the Lord must have wanted Tommy Home. Now you have an Angel forever watching over you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help - I'm just a phone call away. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Ernest & Sara Jaramillo

June 25, 2007

Tommy will be greatly missed.
Mr. and Mrs. Paz, you raised a VERY courteous, respectful and loving young man. He was very good to my sisters (the twins) and was always willing to help them through their hard times. He was a wonderful friend to them. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You always. We love you Tommy!

R. David Arrieta

June 25, 2007

I am sorry to hear of your lost. I'm a co-worker of Thomas Combs and if Tommy was anything like Thomas he must have been a great child. Thomas Combs hang in there my friend we are here for you and your family.

Carla Renner, Vector Wealth

June 25, 2007

I didn't know Tommy but if he was anything like his father, he was a great man. Gary, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of grief. Remember the happy times and keep them in your heart forever. One thing that got me through the loss of my fiance was that "God heals through your tears." God bless you and your family.

June 25, 2007

To The Paz Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. My son Marc played baseball on the Bourgade team with Tommy. Marc has so many wonderful memories of Tommy. He says he was a great person. Please let us know if there is anything we can help with.

Sincerely,
The Casas Family

PATRICIA TRIBBY

June 25, 2007

I
DON"T KNOW THE FAMILY BUT READING IT HERE IN TEXAS AND BEING A FORMER
PHOENIX RESIDENT FOR OVER 40 YEARS I SEND MY PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY AS
NO PARENT SHOULD OUTLIVE THEIR CHILD. MY HEART ACHES FOR YOU. DE COLORES

PATRICIA TRIBBY

June 25, 2007

I DON"T KNOW THE FAMILY BUT READING IT HERE IN TEXAS AND BEING A FORMER PHOENIX RESIDENT FOR OVER 40 YEARS I SEND MY PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY AS NO PARENT SHOULD OUTLIVE THEIR CHILD. MY HEART ACHES FOR YOU. DE COLORES

June 25, 2007

TO: KARI PAZ AND FAMILY
I JUST HEARD OF YOUR LOSS AND I AM DEEPLY SADDENED FOR YOU, I HAVE A CANDLE LIT FOR YOUR SON,AND DEEP PRAYERS FOR YOU AT THIS HARD TIME STAY STRONG. YVONNE URQUIZA

June 25, 2007

TO THE PAZ FAMILY OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU TOMMY WAS A GOOD FRIEND AND WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED. JULIEANN AVILA AND DESTINA APODACA FROM BOURGADE HIGH SCHOOL

Anonymous Friend

June 25, 2007

I didn't know Tommy very well, but in the few encounters we had he was a respectful, courteous, and kind hearted young man, something that can be a lot to ask of teenagers these days. Rest in peace Tommy.

June 25, 2007

To the entire Paz Family,

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Tommy was a wonderful person and will be missed greatly. Our prayers go out to you and your family druring this time.

Sincerely,
The Tellez Family (Ss. Simon and Jude)

Alejandro & Keri DeHerrera

June 25, 2007

To the Paz Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. We remember good times with Tommy at St. Louis the King.
Alejandro & Keri DeHerrera & family
Camp Verde, Arizona

Gail Fournier

June 25, 2007

Gary, Cecelia and Family -
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

I only had the pleasure to meet Tommy once, but his father spoke very highly of him as he does all his children. You will be missed.

gloria mullins

June 25, 2007

To the entire family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Steve Rogers

June 24, 2007

Paz Family....we are so sorry for you loss. Your family is in our prayers. Tommy was a sweet young man and just an all around good kid. He will be missed!!!
The Rogers Family (St. Louis the King)

Joanna Gonzales

June 24, 2007

To the Paz family we are very sad for your lost. Tommy was a good friend of the kids and a clssmates. We will keep you in are prayers. your family has a real angel now.
Love The Gonzales Family

Mark La Voy

June 24, 2007

I am so sorry to here about your loss. You are in my prayers. Mark La Voy. (St Vincent de Paul--8th grade)

VINCENT CANEZ

June 24, 2007

TO THE PAZ FAMILY,
I AM VERY SORRY TO HEAR THE TERRIBLE NEWS. TOMMY WAS A WONDERFUL YOUNG MAN AND A DAMN GOOD ATHLETE. TOMMY WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED AND HE IS VERY LOVED! I HAD THE HONOR AND PRIVILEGE OF BEING TOMMY'S LINEMEN COACH THIS PAST FALL. TOMMY WOULD ALWAYS MAKE ME LAUGH WITH EVERY JOKE HE WOULD TELL. TOMMY WAS A NATURAL LEADER AND HE ALWAYS GAVE IT HIS ALL!! TOMMY WILL ALWAYS BE 1 OF MY "TOP HOGS!!" TOMMY KNOWS WHAT "HOGS" ARE! I WILL MISS TOMMY VERY MUCH! I SEND MY THOUGHTS, PRAYERS, AND CONDOLENCES TO THE PAZ FAMILY.
SINCERELY,
COACH CANEZ
BCHS VARSITY FOOTBALL
LINEMEN COACH

Pamela Smith

June 24, 2007

The Paz Family.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to all who were blessed and touched by this Angel.

Your friends,

The Family of Neal and Lynda Coleman, Pamela Smith and Bryan Davis

Gail DeLano

June 24, 2007

Tommy, words alone can not express how much you ment to everyone and how much you will be missed. RIP Sweet Angel, and keep a watchfull eye on all of us left behind.

To the Paz Family, We are here for you! Know that your family and friends will help you through this time. Tommy will always be in our thought and in our hearts. Thank you for being a part of our family, and sharing your son with us. We love you all! The DeLano's Randy, Gail, Randy, Debbie, Christopher, Jenae, Jimmy & Megan

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