Thomas Hardy Pedler
January 30, 1946 – May 9, 2012
In January 1946 Tom became the third of what would be five children born into the wonderful family of Richard and Marjorie Pedler of Muskegon Heights, Michigan. Last Wednesday he became the fifth of that family to pass away, following his sister Amy and his mom and dad, as well as his brother-in-law Sid.
Life took Tom to Grand Rapids, San Diego, Las Vegas, Ann Arbor and Denver before his final earthly residence near Wiggins.
He had a naturally likable personality that seemed to fit in wherever he lived. That did not change when he found Jesus, but it did change the effect he had on others. Suffice that countless people are immeasurably better today because Tom entered their lives.
When he heard his “death sentence” last June – that he probably would not live to see June of 2012 – it was, in his words, “the happiest moment of my life.” He knew he was going to see Jesus, plus other family members and friends who had passed before him. His only concerns were for the loved ones he was leaving behind, and the possibility of unbearable pain before he died.
He needn't have worried about the latter. The wonderful care he received from the blessed hospice people in Morgan County and the many kind members of his “Wiggins Family” prevented his pains from being unbearable.
His first fear has come to pass. Those of us who loved him – in Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, California, Ohio, Michigan and elsewhere – do miss him dearly. But we know that it was his time, and that he's in a better place.
Tom, your life and your death were an inspiration. We will always love you!
