1974
2022
Tom Bollen, 48, of Lake Stevens, passed away very suddenly on Wednesday, November 2nd . Tom leaves behind his wife, Brandy, of nineteen and a half years; his dear mother, Cheryl Johnson; Sister Sue, and Brother-in-law, Jerry Kimball. Tom also leaves behind his nephews Jesse and Christopher Kimball, Brendan Oquist, as well as his niece Katelynn Oquist; Sister-in-law and Brother-in-law, Shannon and Nils Oquist, and his In-laws Harold Skidmore and Debra Chism. Tom also leaves behind his beloved fur babies Harley, Bella, and Tia AKA Bitsy. He had far too many close friends to name, but he loved each-and-every one of them.
Tom started working for the Department of Corrections at Monroe Correctional Complex in 1998. Starting first as a Correctional Officer, later moving into a position he loved as the Motor Pool Supervisor. Tom was a brilliant master mechanic and he loved all things mechanical. As a curious child, Tom started taking apart appliances around the house just to figure out how they worked. Later in life, he loved to share his incredible knowledge with the guys he mentored on the job, as well as anyone who wanted to learn. In doing so, he touched many lives along the way.
Tom loved animals, especially dogs. He had many beloved dogs over the years (Bailey pictured with him), but his pride and joy was his little Chihuahua, Bitsy. It was quite a site to see this big guy carrying around his 2.5 pound dog. Bitsy loved to sit on his shoulder like a parrot, while Tom was sitting scrolling through his computer.
Tom was a guy's guy. He loved riding his motorcycle, shooting guns, going out crabbing on his boat, fishing with his friends, cooking for everyone, and music. When Tom would cook his ribs, everyone would be salivating. Tom had a wicked sense of humor and quick wit. Tom could make you laugh until you cry with a straight face and without even trying. He was an old soul and truly one of a kind. They just don't make 'em like Tom anymore, and never will.
His friends and family will be gathering on Friday December 9th , to remember and celebrate Tom. The Celebration of Life is being held at:
Angel of the Winds Casino Resort Rivers Run Event Center, next to Strikerz Bowling alley. Guests to start arriving between 3:30-4pm. We ask that all those who knew and loved Tom come ready to share any pictures, stories, and memories of Tom with us.
Angel of the Winds
Casino and Resort,
Rivers Run event center
Room 1
3438 Stoluckquamish Lane,
Arlington, WA 98223
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Nils Oquist
November 20, 2022
This will be the first Holiday Season in 20 years that I won´t have my wisecracking brother in law there. It will never be quite the same. I´m going to miss you Tom.
Shannon Oquist
November 20, 2022
Tommy,
The words do not come easy right now. I truly hope you knew how much I loved and appreciated you. If anyone had car trouble, call uncle Tommy. You want the best food in town? It was you. Thank you for always being such an amazing provider and life partner to my sister and for being the best uncle and brother in law anyone could ask for. Losing you has placed a huge hole in all of our hearts. I hope you knew how very much we all loved you. Please tell Bailey and Chester hi for me. Until we meet again
Cyndy Kelly
November 20, 2022
My dear brother, I will miss you so much. Words just don't express it. RIP my brother, my friend.
MARY SMITH, Cheryl is my cousin, his mother.
November 20, 2022
Tom had the best hugs, he just enveloped you and you would know you were loved. He was a great cook. Not only for ribs, but the best hamburgers and hot dogs. Rest in peace my hero.
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