Thomas A. Northam Jr.

Thomas A. Northam Jr.

Tom was born in the Walter Reed Army Hospital, Washington DC; the son of a career WWI and WWII infantry officer and a Walter Reed Army nurse.  Eventual military service was a given.

Growing up in the 1930’s and 40’s as an “Army Brat”, he lived on numerous Army Posts.  This nurtured his love for travel and meeting new people.  After graduating from Tennessee’s’ Sewanee Military Academy, he entered the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, class of ’53.  He was destined for a lifelong military career serving his country.  Sports injuries led to his academic failure and eventual dismissal from West Point after completing his “plebe” or freshman year.  He then entered the U. S. Naval Academy, class of ’54.  Again suffering sports injuries that led to substandard academic performance he was dismissed.  This refueled his tenacious desire to serve his country.  He then enlisted in the submarine fleet.  There, he obtained an appointment again to the U.S Navel Academy, class of 56.  Even he admitted he did things the “hard way”.  Upon graduation he embarked upon a long and distinguished career both ashore and at sea.  Among his assignments he served in Italy, Vietnam and Washington DC.  He served on the USS Miller (DD 535), USS Sarsfield (DD 837), USS Hermitage (LSD 34), USS Thor (ARC 4) and the USS Aeolus (ARC 3).  His military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with Combat “V”, Joint Service Commendation Medal and many more citations for meritorious service.

After retiring from the military he worked for GTE on various military contracts and traveled extensively.  He participated in GTEs “Big Ride”; a bicycle ride from Seattle, WA to Washington DC.  The Ride was to raise money and awareness for cancer victims.  After retiring from GTE he moved to Leavenworth, WA and again became active in his community.  He participated in numerous events and parades including lighting the town for Christmas and burying a Centennial time capsule.  Never far from his heart was his commitment to serving his county and as such he was an active member and Commander of the Cashmere VFW post.

Tom is survived by his wife Onie, his children Thomasina Lacey (Russell), Thomas III (Cathy), Patrick and Timothy (Dee Dee ).  His step-children; Laurie Branch (Sheldon) and Brian Treloggen (Julie).  Eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Tom has always contended that his whole life was guided and successful only by our Lords grace.  He can now thank Him for his guiding hand.

A memorial service will be held at Bothell United Methodist Church, 18515 92^nd Ave. NE, Bothell, WA 98011, at 2:00 pm on 30 Apr 2018.  He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington DC.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.