Thomas Francis MORTIMER Jr.

Thomas Francis Mortimer, Jr., 61, passed away unexpectedly on November 26, 2025 of natural causes after a morning spent surfing in the ocean he loved with the sun shining on his face, the wind at his back and swells from the south. A true waterman, we take comfort that Tom returned to the ocean where he found peace and joy on that final day.
"Morty" was instantly recognizable for his booming laugh and beaming smile, signature dance moves, "matador" surfing posture, and genuine warmth. He was also a man of great depth and virtue. He could talk knowledgeably on topics ranging from Neruda poetry to current politics, with a Jeopardy-worthy recall of obscure facts. As a lawyer, Tom was relentless in his pursuit of justice and a fierce advocate of his clients' causes, but always a gentleman. A life-long seeker, Tom had a deep and abiding relationship with God, a profound respect for his fellow-man, a passion for art and music, and a restless spirit that propelled him on adventures all over Los Angeles and the globe, but he always returned home to his community in Manhattan Beach and his great loves, his wife Kathleen, and his son, Sean, who were the North stars in his night sky. Tom is also survived by a sister, Ann Marie and her husband Michael, brother Chris and his wife Ellyn, and loving family Sukanya, John, Shelley, Jai, Erina, Michael, Flynn, Ryan, Nick, Eva and Lily. He joins in eternity his loving parents Thomas and Helen and father-in-law Kris.
A paddle-out to honor Tom in the water he loved and with the ocean as our witness will be held Saturday, December 20th at 10:00 am at Bruce's Beach – 26th Street, Manhattan Beach. Supporters on the beach are also welcome.
Tom's funeral service will be held Saturday, January 10th at 10:00 am at American Martyrs Catholic Church, Manhattan Beach.
There will never be another Morty. The depth of our sorrow is matched only by the love he gave. Until we meet again, Tom.