Thomas George Holmes
April 7, 1972 – Feb. 27, 2009

Tom was born in Ukiah, Calif., and was raised in North Bend, Ore. He excelled at many things but was a standout on the football field.

Tom played football at Oregon State University and later for the Arena Football League. He made many good friends throughout his life. His bright smile and wit were hard to resist.

Tom was diagnosed with ALS three years ago. He gave that terrible illness a battle but he did finally succumb to it, with his mother and sister at his side in Friday Harbor, Wash. He will be missed greatly and the love he brought to so many will live long in their hearts.

Tom is survived by his grandmother, Marie Holmes of Willits, Calif.; his mother, Annette Holmes of Friday Harbor, Wash.; his sister, Susan Holmes-Freeman of Medford, Ore.; his brother, Garrett Holmes and his wife Leisha; and his sister, Gidget Walters and her husband, Rob; all of Friday Harbor, Wash.

He is also survived by his nephews, Ben and Bridger; and his nieces, Maggie, Emily, and Katie who were the light of his life.

The family would like to share the following poem with all who loved Tom:

“The tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand,
The sun goes down but gentle warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains …
For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains.” — M. Hughes

Please remember Tom with love and a big smile. He never wanted any sympathy. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, Wash., and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Tom, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.

— Family of Thomas George Holmes