Another one of our young men has died tragically in an auto
accident. We first met Thomas back in 1989, when we moved to
Hollister. He was just a little boy then, but over the years, he
and my son, Christopher, and our neighbor, Christopher, spent much
time playing and growing up. In the earlier years, they played
together in the sandbox, and later all over our rural properties,
dressed in camo, and playing soldiers in combat.
Dear Editor,
Another one of our young men has died tragically in an auto accident. We first met Thomas back in 1989, when we moved to Hollister. He was just a little boy then, but over the years, he and my son, Christopher, and our neighbor, Christopher, spent much time playing and growing up. In the earlier years, they played together in the sandbox, and later all over our rural properties, dressed in camo, and playing soldiers in combat.
Thomas always greeted us as Mr. and Mrs. Andersen, and if you ever had to correct anything he was doing, his response was always, “yes ma’am” or “yes sir.” Thomas had a unique sense of humor that made you wonder if he really was his age. In fact, I’m sure, that to his seven other siblings, Thomas was the jokester of the bustling household, but he was also a serious student and a remarkable athlete. I don’t think that a sport exists, that he didn’t try his hand at. When Thomas and my son Chris were freshmen, they both ran their hearts out on the San Benito Cross Country team. Thomas may not have been the fastest, but no one could say that he didn’t run his best. He always seemed to put his best effort into whatever he tried.
The world will surely be a more empty place without Thomas. None of us knows what he might have achieved in his later years, but those of us who believe know that God has a greater purpose for Thomas. Our family, and many others who knew this one of a kind kid, will miss his presence in our homes, on our teams, around the neighborhood. His memory will always evoke a chuckle as well as a tear. Thomas, you were truly loved by your family and friends, and you will always be remembered fondly by all who knew you. You touched every life you came in contact with in your short seventeen years. Go with God, in peace.
Nike Andersen, Hollister
