Tom Collins

Tom Collins passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Tom spent part of his early life in Wisconsin, where his father was instrumental in building a town. At the age of 10, following the passing of his mother, Tom and his father embarked on a journey along Route 66 to Long Beach, California, to start anew with family.

Tom pursued higher education at UCLA, earning a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Master of Business Administration. It was during his time at UCLA that he met Karen, his beloved wife, with whom he shared 52 wonderful years.

In 1983, Tom accepted his dream position in La Jolla, California, as Director for Administration and Finance at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. His career flourished as he advanced to Associate Vice Chancellor and Deputy Director of Administration. Upon retirement, he was honored with the title of Emeritus and authored a management book, "The Workplace Family."

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Karen; his three sons, Tommy, Sean, and Seth; and his cherished granddaughters, Kieran, Lyra, and Phoebe.

He was renowned for fostering a familial atmosphere in the workplace, his fervor for science, and his love of blues music. Tom will be fondly remembered for his loving, kind, and warm spirit.