In early December, Tom's Dad (Tom Senior) was diagnosed with Seconday Lung Cancer. It was soon after determined that the Cancer had spread to his lungs from either the Pancreas or Bile Duct. Though we all know it was terminal, we held some hope that chemo would have some positive effect. Just last week it was evident that the chemo was no longer working. Dad, with some convincing from the Oncologist determined that since the Chemo was not working AND that the Cancer had significantly increased, it would only make sense to switch to Hospice and live his final days in comfort rather than continuing with a non-productive plan.
On Thursday Tom talked with his Dad. They had a very nice (but short) phone conversation. By Friday, the newly administered Morphine had taken effect and Dad basically slipped into a non-responsive state. By the weekend, Mom knew the end was near. Dad passed away in his own bed on Sunday shortly after 1 pm. Mom whispered in his ear that it was ok to go now and that she loved him. Within a few seconds he took his final breath. On Monday they would have been married for 57 years.
Yesterday, we both sat down and wrote his Obituary. We were honored to do this as it was one of the few things we could do being so far away. I have posted it below. It won't appear in the Bend Bulletin or the Eugene Register Guard for a few days.
Dad, I know you probably aren't reading this blog as Heaven has some great golf courses and I'm sure you're preparing for another round, but please know that I love you and that you've been the best Dad any kid could have ever asked for. I'm proud to have been a part of your life and you mine. I'm thankful I inherited your best traits. I hope I've made you proud and that my daughter and any future children will carry your incredible legacy forward.
Thomas E. Archibald
October 26, 1932 - March 7, 2010
Tom Archibald, a long-time resident of Central Oregon, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, March 7, following a brave battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family.
Tom was born on October 26, 1932 in Huntington Beach, California to Daniel and Kathleen Archibald. The family moved to Eugene, Oregon in his childhood. He graduated from Eugene High School in 1950. Tom joined the Air Force immediately after high school and proudly served his country during the Korean War. He met the love of his life, Bernice Collingwood, in 1952. After a brief courtship and many months of love letters, they were married on March 8, 1953. Tom and Bernice (Bea) had 5 children together. In 1974, Tom and his family moved to Bend, Oregon, where he assisted in the launch of the Bend Bi-Mart and worked as a member of the store management team. In 1988, Tom, along with his wife and daughter, purchased The Pickle Barrel Deli in downtown Bend. In 2003, Tom and Bea, along with family members, graciously opened their home to seniors and the disabled by opening The Garden Villa Adult Foster Care Home.
Tom was known for his sense of humor and immense love for the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, gardener, camper and backroad adventurer.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Timothy, who died in infancy, and a brother, Dan Archibald. Tom will be dearly missed by those he leaves behind, including his wife, Bernice (Bea); three daughters, Cathy Jo Gillice of Clark Fork, Idaho, Chris Kimmel of Bend, Oregon, and Cheri Montgomery of Bend, Oregon; and a son, Tom Archibald of Andover, Minnesota. Tom also leaves behind a sister, Betty Ervin of Auburn, California; and two brothers, Ron Archibald of Yountville, California, and Dick Freer of California. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews and close friends. His entire family and multitude of friends and caregivers will forever treasure the memories and laughter they shared with such a warm, generous and outgoing man.
A celebration of life will be held later this year at Sheep Bridge Campground on Wickiup Reservoir to commemorate his love for the outdoors. Memorial contributions may be made to Partners in Care, 2075 NE Wyatt Ct., Bend, Oregon 97701, 541-382-5882, http://www.partnersbend.org/
