Monday, July 4, 1988
Tom was a friend, mentor and a guide. - July 4, 1988
Posted: July 11, 2013 | Last Revised: July 11, 2013
To me, Tom was a friend, mentor and a guide. He was a very analytical person and has provided me with much insight and help in defining the man that I have become.
While in high-school I had the opportunity to travel in the Rocky Mountains with Tom. He shared with me his passion for the outdoors, camping, shooting, music and photography. On those trips we often spoke of his high-school days and the good times (not always legal) he had had with my father and his other friends. Tom also shared stories from his time in Viet Nam, college, and his work. On one trip we spent a few days with John in Utah and Colorado and did some 4-wheeling.
Tom also introduced me to Bill and Janet Howles, and their family. With whom I spent a couple years working in the gas-fields with Jason, and in the cheese-shop with Kim and Kate. Just one example of how Tom was able to expand HIS extended-family; which was made up of blood-relations, friends, acquaintances, and whomever was lucky enough to be worthy of his time.
With a kindly worded letter from Tom to the admittance department, I was able to attend the college I wanted to (my grades were not what they could have been). And in the years that followed we shared many long conversations while I sat in the hallway of my dorm, sharing my experiences and what I was doing in class (I was science major). I often listened as Tom told me how my hard-work now would pay off later, and how insane it was to even consider postponing my college work to enlist during the first Gulf War.
Tom and I also went on a trip out West after I had graduated from college and was beginning my own career. That was probably the last real trip that I can remember taking where I did not have to worry about wife, kids, home, work etc., while away. He and I "just were", where we were and when we were. And if that wasn't working, we altered things. I have great photos that we took on all of our trips.
In the years that followed, Tom and I would talk less frequently. But we would always be able to pick up where we left off. We talked about life, work, the outdoors, etc.; and even though we would both complain about politicians and how 'the man' was bringin' us down', I always enjoyed my time with Tom.
Tom freely shared his experiences and what he learned from them. I am glad that he did. I am sure we have all had times when we were able to glean some insight into a problem or issue from Tom.
I know that my life would NOT be the same if it had not been influenced by Tom Rohr.
Tom, you will be GREATLY missed.
Greg
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