Thomas Royal Bispham

Thomas Royal Bispham, 1943-2019. Sun City, AZ - Loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, Tom Bispham, 75, died January 2, 2019 after an eight-month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born April 16, 1943 in Portland, OR to Royal H. Bispham and Winnifred (Bowen) Bispham.
He married Jean Bumgardner, his high school sweetheart, in 1964. Jean was and is the eternal love of his life. Together, they raised three beloved children: Jim, Jeff and Tamie.
Tom graduated from Jefferson High school in 1961 in Portland where he was a student athlete. In 1965 he received a degree in Biology from Portland State University. He was an air quality and pollution control researcher, a career that spanned 31 years - retiring as Executive Administrator with the Oregon State Department of Environment Quality. After retirement Tom continued to work as a consultant for several years. He was a respected and admired professional, known for his fairness and a gentle, considerate way of working with others.
For many years, Tom served as a Director of the North West Disciples Wrestling Club, a volunteer organization for at-risk and disadvantaged youth in Portland. The impact of his selfless service was evidenced in the success of those he tutored and supported. It was a natural thing for Tom to do. He loved helping others.
Tom was a dedicated outdoorsman, a skillful fly fisherman and hunter. He was also an avid golfer, enjoying his "home" golf course at Sun City with many friends. As a naturalist, Tom delighted in visiting Alaska, the Galápagos Islands, the marvels of Antarctica and finally, his wildlife "friends" that visited him in his Arizona backyard.
Tom was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, brother Roger and granddaughter, Hailey. He is survived by his wife, Jean; sons, Jim (Sue), Jeff (Yuko); and daughter, Tamie. He also leaves six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held on January 22, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. at Menke Funeral Home, 12420 N. 103rd Ave., Sun City, AZ 85351. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of the Valley.