Thomas A. Linthicum, resident of Lafayette, California, died peacefully on July 30, 2009 at age 87.  Thomas was the loving husband of Eunice who preceded him in death last December after 55 years of marriage.  He was also the caring father of suriving sons Thomas W., Ron, and Randy, and of daughter Donna who passed away in 2002.  Thomas is also survived by six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Thomas grew up during the great depression and had a deep appreciation for hard work and dedication to family.  He worked his way through college and received a bachelor's degree from USC.  He joined the Navy the day after Pearl Harbor and served as a Lieutenant throughout World War II, receiving a Purple Heart for wounds suffered during the battle of Saipan in June of 1944.  Thomas saw action at many battles during the war including Iwo Jima, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa. 

Thomas married his beloved wife Eunice in 1954 and spent the remaining years of his life dedicated to life with Eunice and his family.  One of his greatest pleasures was spending time with the family at the family home in Lafayette and the family cabin at Mount Hermon.  Thomas loved both watching and playing tennis and was a long-time member of the the Berkeley Tennis Club.  He also loved watching USC football games.  Thomas supported his family as a self-employed real estate broker; he was a long-time member of the Berkeley Board of Realtors.  He was a 33rd degree Mason and was a member of the Masons for over 65 years.  He was a positive source of support and inspiration for his family up to the time of his death, despite suffering from many physical problems over the last several years.  During his long illness he remained optimistic and positive despite his own discomfort, often encouraging and inspiring other patients with whom he came in cotnact.  He was a great role model to his children and his wisdom will be missed.

Inside Bay Area, August 9, 2009