Thomas H. Birmingham

Thomas H. Birmingham, Jr. of Gladstone, MO, passed away July 2, 2024. He was born June 16, 1943, in Leavenworth, KS to Thomas H. Birmingham, Sr. and Catherine (Kersten) Birmingham.
After graduating from the University of Kansas in 1965, Tom moved to Kansas City, MO, where he taught math at Oak Park and Winnetonka high schools for 15 years. He then moved to the private sector where he used his teaching skills as a training consultant and technical writer. At the end of his career, Tom returned to the classroom and taught math part time at Park College.
For many summers, Tom could be found sailing his boat on Smithville Lake with family and friends. He and his family frequently vacationed in Rocky Mountain National Park and explored the West Coast whenever they could. Tom made friends everywhere he went, and especially enjoyed meeting new people in local pubs when he traveled. He spent many hours gardening, paying special attention to the dozens of hosta plants spread around the backyard. But his real passion was woodworking, a skill he learned from his father. From his workshop, Tom created everything from simple cutting boards to complex and beautiful pieces of furniture.
Tom leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Patty, and his two sons, Kiley (Brenda Helmbrecht) of San Luis Obispo, CA, and Brad of Gladstone, MO. He also leaves two brothers, Mike and Charlie (Leslie), as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Judy Stirling, and his nephew Brian Stirling.
At Tom's request, there will be no formal services.
Tom often found peace in nature. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in his name to the National Park Foundation (nationalparks.org).