Tom Franklin

I had the honor of being Tom ‘s and Anna’s next door neighbor in Portland. Tom was a wonderful person, always so neighborly and enjoyable. I welcomed his conversations about social justice, and enjoyed his gift of chocolate biscotti at holiday time! He will be truly missed.

Anna!  Kim and I are so very sorry to learn the news about Tom. Proud that we got that one chance to meet the great guy. The holes that get blasted into our lives are so deep. They can, eventually, turn into a kind of well, but painfully, slowly.  Damn. When you are in or near Portland, we really want to see you!
Dick Sewell - and Kim of course!

Tom was a delight to know. Always a smile on his face, a sparkle in his eyes, and a clever conversation to share. I was so grateful to get to know him through Anna. The first time I met him he did an act of great generosity, offering me a bed and he took a couch when we were all snowed in together for a Synergos retreat. During our meetings, I could always count on Tom for an adventure including a funicular ride and hike in Switzerland and a glorious walk to the bird market in Hong Kong.
My warmest wishes and comfort to his family and friends.

Sandy and I grew up with Tom in Champaign,Illinois. He was President of our Senior Class, leaving us well prepared to meet the challenges he would find in the Northeast. The tributes you all have shared here confirm the Respect, Love, and Admiration we all remember for Tom. The phrase, “A life well-lived “, is made for Tom. Blessings to
his family.

I always enjoyed Tom's company whenever we saw him at Chris and Julie's home next door.  Chris' family has become part of our own.  We adore Chris and Julie, and their highly evolved children, Riley, Jesse, and Jacqueline.  I am particularly sad for these beautiful children who have lost their beloved grandpa.  And my heart goes out to Chris for the loss of his dad.  Losing a parent is impossibly painful.  Tom promised to take me sailing, but I never made it onto the boat.  I expect him to make good on this promise when we meet again in Eternity, where the seas are endless and the winds are always gentle and coming from the best direction.