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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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
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Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel1101 NE 112th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98684
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