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Thomas Cutting Obituary
Aug. 9, 1924 - May 20, 2013
Resident of Scotts Valley
An exceptional man passed away May 20, 2013, Thomas W. Cutting. My father, my mentor and the finest man I will ever know. Born in Redwood City, Calif. in 1924, he was 88 years old. Dad grew up in Redwood City and enjoyed a bountiful childhood. His college career was interrupted by the outbreak of WWII where he served his country in the US Army as Staff Sergeant in the 96th Infantry Division. The division was nicknamed "the dead eyes". He survived several beach landings including Okinawa, and was a decorated hero earning two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star and a Presidential Citation for extraordinary heroism. His humble nature and solemn dedication to his family, friends, community and his country will be forever remembered. He was a true hero, but never spoke of his heroics or military decorations.
He returned from the war and finished his college career at San Jose State earning a Bachelor's degree in business, and charmed one Marylynn Bacon into becoming his wife. They graduated college, moved to Santa Cruz and started a family. My father took a job at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk as manager and stayed at the Seaside Company for almost 30 years. It was a great childhood growing up on the beach, my sister and I were blessed by such a life. Upon leaving the Seaside Company he went on to become a successful retailer in Downtown Santa Cruz operating Pants Plus for many years.
My father was not content to just do his job, he tirelessly gave his time to the community that he loved. He was involved in so many service groups including the Lions, Elks and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. For many years he was involved with the Miss Calif Pageant, serving as its Executive Director, a position he truly was passionate about.
Fifty years of marriage to my mother ended with her passing and he remarried longtime family friend Beverly Mork. After her passing he moved back to his home in Montevalle Park in Scotts Valley where he met Marilyn Gideon who he fell in love with and she became his loving companion to the end. His talents and integrity were in demand again, and he once again gave his time and energy to his Park community.
He leaves his son and daughter in law, Steve and Debbie Cutting and his grandson Shawn Cutting all of Friday Harbor, WA; his beloved and caring daughter who was with him till the end, Sally Ann Cutting of Scotts Valley, and his loving companion, Marilyn Gideon of Scotts Valley.
One of the 'greatest generation' this country has ever known will be laid to rest with full military honors at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington. He was a true hero, best friend, loving father and tireless community leader, he will be missed beyond words....Love you Dad
Please visit the online guestbook at www.pacificgardenschapel.com and share your reflections with the Cutting family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Cutting
Ingrid Shoden Pardee
July 14, 2013
We've had the Best Dad's haven't we ?
Sally, thinking of you and remembering such fun, old times with you,and your parents
Susanna Paris Eaton
June 2, 2013
Dear Steve and Sally ~ I have so many fond memories of both your parents and our years on Crestview Terrace. Your dad was such a lovely man and I was always so happy to see him. We would laugh and share stories of those days. That was a great tribute to a fine man. Kind regards from your former babysitter.
May 31, 2013
To Tom's Family & close friends: We'll always remember Tom
as a, " True Gentleman." He was a respected resident of
Montevalle. Some our happiest days were traveling with him
in our Travel Trailer Club. We'll miss him. DAVID & MURIEL
Dave & Judy Bengtson
May 31, 2013
Tom was a beautiful and gracious person. Due to his humbleness, many of us did not know of all his worldly accomplishments. I was however able to know him as a Montevalle neighbor, a member of our MV Chef's club, the travel manager in our Seniors in Retirement or SIRS organization and very importantly, a faithful attender, with Marilyn, at our Valley Vineyard Church. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Deborah Maddock Elston
May 31, 2013
Steve and Sally my sincere sympathy to read of your fathers' passing. He was a special man and a person I have good memories of growing up with him in Lions, Elks and Miss Cal. Sally what a special tribute you wrote for him. Hugs and prayers,
Fond memories from the Bacon Family
Diane Bacon
May 29, 2013
The family's gravy man!
Diane Bacon
May 29, 2013
Steve Mendoza
May 27, 2013
Steve, Sally, family,
I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He sure was a good man and I have fond memories of him, your mom and both of you. Those were good years back in those days. May you find comfort in the condolences of those who knew your dad... For his service to our country, his dedication as a father, a community leader, and one great guy. May God give you comfort in your grief and loss daily.
Mary Peters
May 26, 2013
Tom was a great friend of our family, We lived across the street from him, in a time when neighbors were friends. I often think of Sally and Steve and the glamorous Marilyn.
It was a good time and Tom was a funny, sweet and charming man. He was blessed with such a loving family.
Kandi Carbone-Lippert
May 26, 2013
Steve & Sally Iam so sorry for your loss, I remember your father and your mother so fondly, I remember when Aunt Shirley and your mom would take us all to the beach and to the Garden of Eden swimming, I didin't know your mom had passes also, i remember when she played cards with Aunt Shirley, remember good times with both of you, your father was a very kind loving man, have fond memories of him and your mother. they both have a place in my heart and memories. God Bless you Both. Kandi Carbone Lippert
email [email protected] phone 831-854-2032
Wayne Fravel
May 26, 2013
Sad to hear the news regarding Tom. The well written obit says it all. I grew up admiring Tom and he never greeted you without flashing that unforgettable smile. His distinguish appearance coupled with his impeccable chatacter made him a man I will never forget. Steve and Debbie, I am sorry for your loss but what a blessing to have had a father like Tom Cutting.
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