Thomas Cleary Ambrose

Thomas Cleary Ambrose

Thomas Cleary Ambrose, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away at his home in Mount Vernon, Wash., Sept. 22, 2011.  He was 79 years old.

Born in Kalispell, Mont., on March 6, 1932, Tom moved to Eureka in the summer of 1940. His mother, Anne Ambrose, taught fifth grade at Roosevelt Grade School. Tom graduated from Lincoln County High School in 1948 and later from the University of Montana with a degree in journalism.

At age 19, he served as a second lieutenant in Korea with the First Cavalry.  After completing his service, he returned to the United States to work as a journalist with the Spokane Chronicle, where he was business editor.  In 1964 he changed careers and worked in corporate communications with the Weyerhaeuser Company, where he retired after 28 years.

Tom had a quick sense of humor, an unwavering moral compass and a compassionate disposition to do the right thing – no matter how difficult or uncomfortable the circumstances.  He was the most intelligent and giving man we ever knew and we are blessed to have shared our lives with him.

He is survived by Joyce Ambrose, his beloved wife of 51 years, his son Neal Ambrose of Seattle, his son John Ambrose of San Diego, and his daughter Bridget Ambrose of Seattle.

Friends are invited to join the Ambrose family at a graveside service to honor Tom, 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 3, 2012, at the Tobacco Valley Cemetery.