Tom Clardy

To a dear friend who recently mused "How do you ever describe that man's life?" I can only say love is all there is. . .

Born to Viola Clardy and Wilson Clardy in St. Louis, Missouri on a cold snowy night just after Christmas while war raged in Europe, Tom lived life guided by his soft heart and insatiable curiosity. He succeeded in many endeavors - as a life-long student, a decorated multi-sport athlete - first high school All-American in football from the state of Missouri - Airman First Class in the United States Air Force, as a musician, historian, bicyclist, writer, as a computer and engineering technician, extraordinary gardener, enthusiastic hiker and skier, voracious reader and, most importantly, as a kind, generous human being, grateful for his good life. He leaves behind his younger sister Jody and her family, his godsons Bret and Andreas Golden, his wife Candy, and countless friends. He will be lovingly remembered and forever missed by all.

Tom was exceedingly thankful for Dr. Michael Graham (of Portland, Oregon), who performed a risky and successful spinal fusion on him while stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida, and for Dr. James Rosenbaum at OHSU who managed his painful arthritic condition for the past 40+ years.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held at River View Cemetery on April 3, 2026.

Suggested contributions in his honor to the OHSU Foundation, Oregon Historical Society, Planned Parenthood of the Columbia-Willamette or a charity of your choice.