Tom's passing happened all too quickly. After many years having been gifted to know him, he suddenly took flight after I'd only just begun opening the window into his story.
As my PhD advisor, he influenced my choice to do fieldwork in Bolivia and he guided me to dig deeper. His archeological dives into history and the legacies of colonialism were an inspiration. After we became colleagues in Anthro, I only wish I had walked up that one flight of stairs to his office to chat more often, but I relish the conversations we did share.
Spending time with Tom and Beth at their home in Toro as they graciously hosted me and Melvin was a joy. Their enthusiasm for Spain was infectious. It was a meaningful, special visit as they prepared Melvin and I to walk part of the Camino, an ancient pilgrimage. We had a lot of stress to let go of and they were a calming force. Over some amazing meals (needless to say, Tom's being a foodie and wine connoisseur meant the best!), they provided us with practical info since we were so unprepared: lending us hats and important advice on how to navigate the journey--including slathering Vaseline on our feet to avert blisters, covered with the wool socks you also lent us!
Tom was the Camino, ‘The Way’ for dozens of his former students and his friends -- with wisdom and guidance. Thus, his “pathways”, as he titled one of his own previous books, will continue far into the future. Buen Viaje, Tom!
