Tom Barrows

WINTHROP- On March 6, Tom Barrows, 62, finished his earthly journey and was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Tom passed peacefully, surrounded by the family he adored leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and friendship.

Born and raised in Winthrop, Tom's love of nature was shaped by the many moments he spent outdoors with his family while growing up. Some of his happiest moments were spent at his childhood camp on Aziscohos Lake.

In 2002, Tom met Vonda. After their first date, he knew he had found his soulmate. They married the following year and in 2004, they completed their little family when their son Jakob Timothy was born. The two people he loved most in this world were Mrs. B. and Jake. He lovingly referred to all her friends as "her hens" and affectionately welcomed them always. He also loved spending time with Jakob and his friends and used every opportunity with them as a teachable moment.

A physical fitness enthusiast, disciplined athlete, and true competitor, Tom was an avid runner who competed in numerous Tough Mountain Challenges and 5K events, often taking home top honors in his age group. He proudly ran alongside his son in many of these races until Jake left him in the dust.

Tom enjoyed a 30-year career at his family business, Bob Barrows Chevrolet, where he forged many lasting friendships with employees and customers that became like family. When he "retired", he went back to school, graduating from Unity College with a degree in Biology. This led to his true calling: working for 9 years as a contracted fisheries technician for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. He was deeply grateful for the opportunity to do what he loved and for the people he worked with. Cherished friendships were made on the water.

He proudly earned his Maine Guide's license and also taught Hunter Safety courses. His hope was for others to share his deep-rooted love for the Maine outdoors. He was happiest walking in the woods, sitting in a blind, foraging for mushrooms and fiddleheads, bird hunting, or fishing on the water (as long as he could see the shoreline). Many summer days were spent pruning and planting in his garden and orchard. He loved providing for and feeding his neighbors, friends and family.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Maxine Barrows; his twin brother, Timmy Barrows; and his best friend, Kevin Selwood. He is survived by his wife, Vonda, and their son, Jakob; his sister, Cindy Hall and her husband, Gary; his mother-in-law, Sally Tedd; his father-in-law, Ron Chase and his wife Jenn, his sister-in-law, Kimberly Hutchinson and her husband Richard; his brother-in-law, Joel Fernald; his nephew Matthew, and his nieces Megan, Emma, Olivia, Lola, and Lilly. He also leaves behind his legendary cat, Max.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 14th at Hope Baptist Church 726 Western Avenue, Manchester ME