Donald Philip Thom, a 4th generation Californian, born in 1928 in San Francisco, first child of Andrew and Mary Thom. The family moved to San Carlos in 1939 where he attended Central School. A 1946 graduate of Sequoia High School, he also attended San Jose State College. He met Jocelyn Bauer on a blind date and the couple celebrated 63 years of marriage in August of 2013.

A strong leader, Don was manager and eventually owner of Bruce Bauer Lumber & Supply in San Carlos and Mountain View. Cultivating and solidifying the community-based roots of the brand that Bruce Bauer himself established, Don defined stewardship for what is now a fourth generation, local family business. He was an active member of the San Carlos Rotary Club. Don graced the earth with his kindness and love. The consummate gentleman; Don always greeted you with a smile and trademark firm handshake, listened to what you had to say, and held the door for you whether he knew you or not.

An avid outdoorsman who fished, hunted and camped; a prolific crossword-solver and a jigsaw puzzler, he could also pitch a mean game of horseshoes. Don was a loyal friend, and loving companion who leaves a legacy that is admired by all who knew him. When not hard at work on projects, Don loved adventures—he and Jocelyn traveled the world on tours and explored California on up into Alaska by motorhome. Dearest to him were Memorial Park, the Bauer family cabin on the Oregon Coast where he and Jocelyn honeymooned, and many summers spent on the south shore of Maui including the family reunion they hosted on their 50th anniversary.

Don leaves behind his wife Jocelyn, and three sons: Douglas (Susan), David (Chris) and Darryl (Lori). He was Grandpa to: Adam Krusi-Thom (Jillian), Mike, Nick & Dan Nardini, Brian, Kelly and Joel Thom and Great Grandpa to Madison & Emma Nardini. Also survived by siblings: Phylis Agnelli (Lou), Doug Thom (Libbie), Gini Alexander (Brian), sister-in-law Barbara Bauer and Don's childhood friend of 80 years, James Old, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Don's family and friends celebrate this great man and his enduring spirit.

A Public Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 22, 1:30 PM, Epiphany Episcopal Church, 1839 Arroyo Ave, San Carlos, CA 94070

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association: www.Alz.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jan. 28 to Jan. 30, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Thom

10 Entries

David Thom

February 24, 2014

Thanks to all the wonderful people (there were many) who attended Dad's beautiful service Saturday February 22. Thanks for supporting him, thanks for loving him and thanks for being his friend. He was a great man in a quiet way.

Karen Keady

February 21, 2014

Sending you the love of your Gotter, Wilson, and Keady cousins. We'll be keeping you in our hearts and prayers as friends and family gather at tomorrow's memorial service. Blessings on all, Karen, Roger and family

February 7, 2014

Hey, Don, which of the forts we built together are you visiting now--The bamboo? the palm frond one? How about the one where we hollowed out the haystack--pretty sneezy for you. San Carlos was comprised of dirt roads and hayfields--and the "World's biggest bay tree--great for climbing. Such fun. Loving you forever, Your sister,Phyl

Patricia (Wilder) Polley

February 4, 2014

Dear Jocelyn and Family, My heart goes out to you with sympathy and love. Don was such a gentleman in every sense. Years (and years) ago as a young teenager, when my sister, Linda, and I babysat your boys, Don extended such memorable courtesy and made me feel so special and grown up. I will keep all of you in my heart.

Don Thom Fishing

February 4, 2014

February 3, 2014

Dear Jocelyn, Doug, David and Darryl. I first remember Don when I, as a teenager, babysat the boys. I remember thinking how lucky Jocelyn was to have such a dear husband and how fortunate those 3 little boys were to have such a wonderful role model. I know he will be missed and I hope that many fond memories will make you smile as you think of him. With love and sympathy, Linda (Wilder) Shineman

David Thom

January 31, 2014

My Father was a great role model. Because of him, I have worked at the same job (and loved it) my whole life.

Jeffery Holley

January 30, 2014

Don was charming with stories he told over and over again. The ones of pride and love about his family were the best - he was effusive about his boys. I think of those feelings - just for a moment - and pretend Don and Jocelyn were my own. That love is precious and irreplaceable.

Kathleen & Richard Schump

January 29, 2014

Dear Jocelyn, David, Chris and Family,

Words fall short in conveying the sympathy that goes out to you now. Still, may you know how much we all care about you. Wishing you comfort and peace.

Janet Warzyn

January 28, 2014

Dear Jocelyn and Family - I'm so sorry to hear about Don's passing. Although I didn't know him well, I remember his warm welcome and his caring ways; his kind smile and his gentle spirit. I send my deepest sympathies.

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