Thomas D. Waldo

Thomas D. Waldo, 84, of Hamilton passed away Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. He was born September 5, 1924 in a cabin at Trapper Creek the son of George and Laura Waldo.

Tom was raised and educated in Darby. After high school he enlisted into the US Navy and served 4 years during WWII in the Pacific Theater. Tom married Edythe M. Abbey on August 7, 1945 in Vallejo, CA. He then attended Montana State University and earned his Bachelors degree. Tom taught a couple of years before attending Washington State University and earning his Masters degree. He taught for 21 years in Montana, Washington and Oregon, retiring in 1977.

` Tom and Edythe also owned and operated Tom's News Stand for 3 years. In 1981 they moved back to Montana and purchased the Rainbows End Natural Food Store in 1985, retiring again in 2000.

Tom was a longtime member and served in many capacities with Gideon's International, he was a member of the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, he served as president of the Hamilton Senior Center for 1 years and was also a member of the First Baptist Church in Hamilton.

Tom loved fishing, hunting and playing cards. He also enjoyed visiting with his many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and 9 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife Edythe of Hamilton; his daughter, Adele Coon and husband Don of Hamilton; 3 sons, Jim Waldo and wife Jeanne of Willow Creek, MT, Dave Waldo and wife Diana of Hamilton and Dan Waldo and wife Ginny of Victor; 7 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

The family suggests that memorials be made in Tom's name to Gideon's International or to the charity of the donors choice.