Tom Birkeland's Obituary
Tom Birkeland was born in Seattle on August 23, 1950 and passed away at his home in Puyallup on May 2, 2023. He is preceded in death by his beloved Mom, Virginia “Gram” Birkeland, and is survived by sister Diane (Jim) Martin, niece Danielle Martin, great nephews Elijah Martin-Moore and Xavier Martin-Jones and several cousins. Throughout his adult life, he was never without a cat, and he will be missed by his most recent companions, Sasha and Buddy.
Tom spent most of his life in Tacoma, graduated from Wilson High School and studied at Central Washington University in Ellensburg. He had an exemplary career with the State of Washington, working at DSHS and later Child Protective Services as a Federal Funding Specialist and was often the recipient of awards for his outstanding service in both capacities. He also “moonlighted” for years with a travel agency where he was given the opportunity to travel for the company to hotels and area attractions as prospective additions to travel itineraries.
He became a frequent traveler and spent time in cities across the country, including spending several years in the New York area. In later years, he became a devotee of cruise lines and had the opportunity to explore theme sites. One of his favorite trips was the Titanic Cruise where he was able to observe the lifting of steel grids from the ill-fated liner and share his common interest with those on board. Tom was an expert on the history of the Titanic and amassed an impressive collection of memorabilia of all kinds relating to the ship. He also occasionally gave impromptu lectures in his home, sharing many stories he had learned based on years of extensive research.
Tom led an interesting and full life. He was extremely witty and clever and loved sharing humor. But what he will most be remembered for is his incredible talent as an actor. Making his stage debut at the age of 9 and taking his final bow at age 68, he was a local theatre legend. He was a favorite with directors and fellow actors, and audiences reveled in his portrayals in such hits as “Hello, Dolly!” “The Lion in Winter” “Peter Pan” “Inherit the Wind” and “Wrecks.” He received many awards and honors from numerous theatres, but always considered Tacoma Little Theatre “home” as that is where he began his illustrious career. He leaves behind an enviable legacy as a quintessential actor and a huge body of memorable performances.
There will be a memorial service for Tom at Mountain View Funeral Home in Lakewood on May 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM. A special Celebration of Life will be held at Tacoma Little Theatre on June 24, 2023, honoring his acting career. Recognizing his love of theater and the importance of supporting young actors, a Tom Birkeland Memorial Fund for Young Actors is being established at Tacoma Little Theater. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to that Fund c/o Tacoma Little Theatre, 201 No. “I” Street, Tacoma, WA 98403.
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