THOMAS McDOUGALL

Tom passed away on Saturday, January 26, 2013, with his devoted wife by his side. He was born 73 years ago, on September 22, 1939, in Santa Barbara, Ca. He was the son of Taylor and Alice McDougall. Tom was known for being a fun loving social kind of guy that enjoyed life. After growing up in Santa Barbara, and completing a degree in Fine Arts, Tom moved to Fresno to teach at California State University, Fresno. Known as the "Ceramics Professor", he taught thousands of young students the basics of molding clay for the next 34 years. As a young man, Tom played many rounds of golf with friends and family and always enjoyed a good doubles game of tennis with his best friend, Tom Smusz. Although he was unable to keep playing tennis after retiring from CSUF, he continued to golf for a few more years. Retirement also gave him more time to relax and be with family and friends. He especially enjoyed losing himself in a good book or watching the latest sports event. Tom is preceded in death by his parents; and his older brother, Don Knapp. Tom is survived by his wife Claudine; his cousin, Margie Mixsell, of Santa Barbara; sister-in-law, Joy Knapp, of San Diego; nephews, Gary Knapp and his wife Gail of Escondido, Rand Knapp of San Diego, Scott Knapp and his wife Pattie of Sylmar; step-children, Tamara and Dan Peccorini of Windsor, Jason and Eileen Edwards of Sacramento, Jeremy and Theresa Edwards of Fresno; also four sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; six grandchildren; and several nephews and nieces. A special celebration of Tom's life is being planned and once confirmed, his friends and family will be notified. In lieu of flowers, Remembrances may be made to donor's favorite charity. Chapel of the Light, 1620 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, California (559)233-6254