Tom's Dad

Pastor Tom lost his dad today. I didn't know Tom's dad but I do know a couple of things about him. I know that he was very well loved and respected by his family and this Portage community that he called home. I also know that he had a wonderful son (forgive me if he had more sons), of whom he was very proud.

I went to school with Tom McKee clear back as far as grade school, I think. We didn't really hang with the same crowd but I always remember his smile and warm personality. He impressed me even as a teenager, when those kinds of character traits often go unappreciated. Not to say that Tom wasn't cool. Anyone who knows him knows that Tom was and is a cool cat. These days, we have reconnected, as with a lot of old friends, on Facebook.

Tom and his wife Marlene have been key in coordinating luncheons and various get togethers for all of us old friends to meet and talk and laugh. Even though I have known Tom a long time, I don't know him all that well. But I hope to get to know him and Marlene better. And I do know this: When Tom comments on any subject, he goes to the truth of the matter, striking somewhere between the heart and the gut. He is a source of comfort to his friends and family, even us who are lucky enough to be Facebook friends. My hope is that we can support and comfort the McKees now, in their time of sorrow, half as much as they have done for their friends.

Tom and Mar, your Facebook and PHS '75 family love you guys and want to know that our prayers are with you today. Our condolences to you and your family.

Lynne Monacy and Your Fans