In memory of Tom...

I can't begin to express how vital Tom and Nancy have been to our small operation here. Although Tom's primary dedication has always been to the dogs of the Tompkins County SPCA (especially the fearful ones who needed special attention), he and Nancy have also been friends of Wildrun. Given how many hours they dedicate to the SPCA, I was always amazed how they fit us in their lives as well. They adopted manic little Paddles (now Gizmo) when they came out to our Holiday party a few years back. They of course picked the hard-luck kitten with the most attitude and physical ailments. Tom and Nancy were the cornerstone of our shelter-building party, that cranked out enough cat shelters to last for years. They fostered kittens this summer, and Nancy has always been there for me--painting shelters, sending out email and stumping for adoptive and foster homes.

Tom passed away unexpectedly this past weekend, which is why blogging has been light. Because I've posted on Tom in the past, I see this blog is getting lots of Google-search-hits on his name, and hope that including this information will put searchers in touch with Nancy and his memorial service.

There is a large hole in the Ithaca community today...and beyond...but it is partially filled with dogs and cats who lives were saved by Tom and Nancy, and the countless people whose lives he touched.


THOMAS KARL
ITHACA - Thomas Karl, 58, of 5011 Dubois Rd., Ithaca, died Sunday, November 26, 2006, at his home. He was born in Bergen County, NJ, son of the late William and Rita Karl.

Tom had spent the majority of his life in and around New York City. He moved to upstate NY in 1994 and to Ithaca in 1997. Although he had been a resident of Ithaca for a few years, he had a tremendous impact on the local community. He was an active volunteer and foster parent at the S.P.C.A. and an avid photographer, gardener and birder.

Tom is survived by his partner, Nancy Cusumano of Ithaca; his brother, James (Linda) Karl of Bainbridge; sister, Denise (Robert) Jenkins of Las Vegas; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Bangs Funeral Home on Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. Burial will be at the Maryrest Cemetery, Mahwah, NJ, on Friday at 1 p.m. A Memorial celebration will be held at the S.P.C.A., 1640 Hanshaw Rd., Ithaca, on Wednesday, December 6, 2006, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory may be sent to the S.P.C.A., attn: Kerry Burns at the above address.

From Donna of the Tompkins County SPCA, to TC SPCA volunteers:

This is a shock to all of us who knew him, and leaves a hole in our lives and the lives of the animals he loved so. Tom was a faithful dog walker, off-site volunteer, fostered MANY shy and fearful dogs - making them feel secure and loved- and ultimately helping them find their forever home. He and Nancy fostered countless kittens, keeping them safe and healthy. Tom led the way in rescueing dogs from Hurricane Katrina and bringing them to our shelter, and Tom cared completely about this shelter and our mission. Whenever there was a need, he was there. He was such a dear friend, to two legged as well as the four legged.

Post-note: The Tompkins County SPCA is closing early today so staff and volunteers can attend Tom's calling hours. This is a heartfelt thanks to the TC SPCA.