Nov. 26, 1929 – Sept. 2, 2017

Tommy was born in the Danish community of Kimballton, Iowa to immigrant parents Thomas and Nettie. He was one of 10 children. He moved to Glendale and attended Glendale High School and entered the U.S. Army upon graduation in 1948. While serving a tour of duty in Korea, Tommy corresponded with his future wife, Nancella Burks, who took him on as a pen pal as part of a Glendale High School history project.

Tommy was a high-voltage lineman for the city of Glendale and Los Angeles. Always a “kid lover,” he took part in the Adopt-a-School Program that brought power line safety to school children across the Los Angeles basin. Upon retirement, Tommy volunteered at the Discovery Center in Big Bear, pioneering a gold panning activity, a favorite of school children.

To many, Tommy is best known for his coaching. Beginning in 1957, he coached Little League and the Babe Ruth and Connie Mack leagues. He was oft named an “All Star” coach, taking many teams on the road post-season. A tough coach, his titanium exterior covered a gentle heart.

With his wife, Nan, he raised three children, two of whom were inducted into the Crescenta Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame, carrying his talent and efforts into the next generation.

Tommy was both a man of faith and a passionate USC Trojan football fan. He loved teaching Sunday school. A USC season ticket holder since 1960, it is no coincidence that he passed away nine minutes before gametime on opening day of the 2017-18 Trojan football season, catching the kickoff from heaven.

Tommy is survived by his wife of 66 years, Nan; three children: Jim, Judy and Jerry Thomsen; two siblings, Muriel Bacon (age 98) and Gene Thomsen (age 84). He leaves seven grandchildren: Kristy, Amanda, Jennifer, Jason, Pierce, Carter and Trace, as well as four great grandchildren: Eric, Maverick, Piper and Corbin.

Services will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 11 a.m. at The Community Church at Jess Ranch, 11537 Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley, California.

The family can be contacted at 19466 Crystal Springs Lane, Apple Valley, CA 92308.