Obituary of Thomas H. Carter

Thomas H. Carter passed away on Sunday, November 25th, 2012 in Fresno, California after a lengthy battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Tom was born on June 21st, 1944 in Santa Cruz, California to Harmon and Flora Belle Carter. At the age of eight, Tom, his parents and sister Joanne moved to Gilroy, Ca. where he graduated from Gilroy High School in 1962 and met his wife Claudia. After graduation he served his country for 4 years in The United States Navy as an Electronic Technician reaching the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. While in The Navy he spent a year in Adak, Alaska as a radio mechanic and then wrapped up his service on The USS Kearsarge where he obtained The Vietnam Service Medal & National Defense Medal. After the Navy, Tom went on to graduate from Cal Poly where he received his degree in Electrical Engineering in 1972. He then immediately received a job working for PG&E where he would remain for 25 years as a Service Planning Supervisor. Tom never forgot Claudia, the girl he took to prom in high school, so he married her in 1973 and they soon gave birth to their daughter Andrea. After a few moves throughout California, Tom and Claudia planted roots in Fresno, Ca., in 1978. In 1982 they give birth to their son Tommy. After 25 years with PG&E Tom retired but soon became restless. On the suggestion of his wife he took a job teaching Math, Electronics & Physics at Heald College Fresno. It was one of the most fulfilling times of his life and his students adored him. More importantly they learned from him. He had the patience of a Saint. Tom was known for his incredible intellect. It was not uncommon for people to comment "you can see him thinking" or "he's the smartest man I've ever met in person". After 10 years at Heald College it was time to take on his two biggest passions full time. Golf & cars. He restored a 1970 SS El Camino to show quality where he proceeded to win many awards. He was also a beloved member of Fig Garden Golf Club. Tom was an amazing golfer. Golfing with his buddies was his favorite thing in the world to do. Tom Carter loved life and he lived it, everyday. He worked hard, played hard and never met a person he didn't like. He was funny, smart, caring and he loved his wife and children. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Harmon and Flora Carter; his father-in-law, Tony Cadile; and his brother-in-law Tom Cadile. He is survived by his wife Claudia, daughter Andrea and son Thomas; his sister Joanne Churchill; his mother-in-law, Eileen Cadile; his sisters-in-law, Naomi Sandoval and her husband Dan, Donna Oliver and Dale Cadile; his brother-in-law Anthony Cadile; many adoring cousins, nieces and nephews; countless friends and his golfing buddies at Fig Garden Golf Club who are like family. A private Funeral Service will be held in Santa Cruz, Ca. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Hinds Hospice Home at 1416 W. Twain Ave., Fresno, Ca. 93711.