Thomas Charles Brundage

Thomas Charles Brundage

Tom Brundage of Arcata, CA passed away peacefully on Monday morning September 14th, 2009. Tom was born in 1947, in Eureka, CA to parents William and Katherine Brundage. He attended schools in Arcata, CA, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology from Humboldt State University. Tom also spent time as an officer in the Coast Guard working as a Dangerous Cargo Inspector in San Francisco. As a licensed Geologist, Tom worked with local companies SHN and Pacific Watershed Associates, and worked for many years as a private consultant in his field. He gained an esteemed reputation as a professional for his knowledge, his integrity, and his ability to work with many different people. His expertise proved invaluable throughout his tenure as a volunteer board member of the Sanctuary Forest Land Trust.

Tom, throughout his life, loved to hike, backpack, and explore the mountains and high peaks in the Trinity Alps, the Lake Tahoe area, Mount Shasta and the Sierras. Friends hiking with Tom will remember that he had a passion for getting to the highest peaks and ridges which were always “just around the corner” on the path. Strong willed, gentle, and intelligent, Tom often surprised close friends and family with his sense of humor and ability to find joy even in the face of difficult health issues.

Even in semi-retirement, Tom had numerous projects in the works: developing a community garden near his home; building a retreat cabin with friends in Trinity Village; upgrading rental property; and managing a community water system. Tom was a member of the Arcata 8:05 Group, a Men’s Group, a local Business Group, the Northcoast Regional Land Trust, and was involved in the Northern CA Shambhala Sangha.

Tom was a student of Buddhism, and discovered through his practice that if he treasured his life as an opportunity to grow in wisdom and compassion, there was no need to fear death. He will be profoundly and deeply missed by his wife, his friends and his family. Tom is survived by his wife of 24 years, Diane de Ford, his brother in-law Kirk de Ford, his step-daughter Summer Daugherty and granddaughter Nicole Lannom, his brother Eric Brundage and wife Maureen Brundage, and their children Kim McAlister, Jill Lorenc, Michael Meagher, James Meagher, John Meagher, Phillip Meagher, Katie Brundage, Angela Brundage, and spouses, grand nieces and nephews, Aunt Irene, numerous wonderful cousins and their families, and his large family of close friends and associates.

Those who would like to recognize Tom’s passing are encouraged to make a donation in his memory to Sanctuary Forest PO BOX 166 Whitethorn, CA 95589. A Memorial will be held in Arcata on Sunday, September 27th, 2009.

Please sign the guest book at www.times-standard.com.