Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel

1101 NE 112th Avenue

Vancouver, Washington

Thomas Laidlaw Obituary


THOMAS JAMES LAIDLAW
August 28,1937 ~ September 27, 2017

Thomas James Laidlaw, 80, died on Wednesday, September 27th, after battling prostate cancer. Tom was born in Evanston, Illinois, and lived in the Chicago area until 1981, when he relocated to Washington.
Tom was an electrician by trade, but his real passions were acting and creative pursuits. These pursuits included everything from working as a square dance caller to being involved in community theater.
Tom dedicated much of his later years to historical reenactment and education in the Pacific Northwest. Tom led tours at local historic sites (Fort Vancouver, Oregon City's Oregon Trail Center, Champoeg State Park), and designed educational programs and materials for a variety of groups and institutions. He was an active leader with Road Scholar (formerly Elderhostel Travel Tours) for sixteen years, specializing in Lewis and Clark history.
Tom is survived by his four children and their spouses, his younger sister and brother, as well as ten grandchildren. Of all his endeavors, Tom's family was ultimately his most important one. Tom made time to engage in the activities that were important to his family-even learning how to make skateboards with his sons and grandsons. He passed along his love and knowledge of woodworking, history and science, and the written word.
He will be remembered for his creativity, determination, and love of learning.
Memorial service to be held Saturday, October 7th at 10a.m., at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. Viewing Friday, October 6th, 9a.m.-9p.m.
Please sign his Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.

Published by The Columbian on Oct. 3, 2017.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Laidlaw

Not sure what to say?





2 Entries

I will always remember Tom's absolute love of sharing history at Fort Vancouver. He could hold a crowd on his every word as he brought William Cannon's story to life. Tom and the many fine volunteers always inspired me and still do.

Jon Burpee

October 5, 2017

Tom, thanks for sharing your love of history with the world. Rest in peace.

John Orthmann

October 3, 2017

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Make a Donation
in Thomas Laidlaw's name

Memorial Events
for Thomas Laidlaw

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel

1101 NE 112th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98684

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Thomas Laidlaw's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more