Thomas Charles Rivard

In Loving Memory of Thomas Charles Rivard

Thomas Charles Rivard, born on July 21, 1946, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Adrian and Mary Ellen (Farman) Rivard, left this world on October 12, 2023. Thomas was raised in Kankakee, Illinois as the oldest son in a large family that included six brothers and four sisters.

Both his 12 years of Catholic School Education, as well as his mother's deep faith, especially after his father's death when he was 14, which left her as the sole parent and provider of his siblings, some as young as 2 years old, helped form the foundation of the man he would become.

Thomas was a graduate of St. Patrick's Central High School - Class of 1964. Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant and became a member of the Special Forces Group, Green Beret’s, in the Airborne Division.

After leaving the Army, Thomas met the woman who would become his wife of over 51 years, Linda, in Kankakee through a mutual acquaintance. Together they would move to California to pursue a higher education. They exchanged vows in Lomita, California on June 10, 1972, and together they were blessed with three wonderful children: Matthew, Timothy, and Samantha.

Thomas dedicated 40 years of his working life to the Southern Pacific Railroad and Union Pacific Railroad, where he served as a switchman and yardmaster. His unwavering commitment to his profession and the respect of his colleagues left an indelible mark on those around him.

When he had the time, Thomas enjoyed the game of golf, especially with his siblings. He also loved fishing with his son Timothy and grandsons Joseph and Gabriel, and when he was younger he enjoyed trap shooting. He also enjoyed gardening. He liked to travel and explore new locations and places - a 4,000 mile trip to Canada from British Columbia to Ontario in a truck camper with his then 3 year old son Matthew; and later a trip to the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee being a few examples.

Thomas was preceded in death by his loving parents, Adrian and Mary Rivard, two of his dear siblings, infant brother James Rivard and older sister Francis(Herb) Barnett, and his cherished angel granddaughter, Gracelynn Faith. His memory will live on through those he leaves behind, who will continue to cherish the moments and experiences they shared.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, their children, Matthew (Dawn), Timothy (Rachel), and Samantha, and his grandchildren, Cassidy, Joseph, Hailey, and Gabriel. Thomas is also survived by his brothers: Joseph(Sherry), John(Gloria), Steve(Chris), Philip(Patty), Mark(Su), and sisters: Marguerite(Albert, deceased) Cote, Catherine(Lee) Hahs, and Mary(Jeff) Martin, all of whom will hold their brother's memory close to their hearts.

A viewing in honor of Thomas Charles Rivard will be held on Tuesday, October 24th, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Weddle Funeral Service. A mass will be conducted at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Keizer on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, with the viewing starting at 9:30 am and the mass to begin at 10:30 am. Following the service, a reception will be held, allowing friends and family to come together and remember the wonderful life of Thomas.

Thomas's commitment to his country will be further commemorated with military honors and burial at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at 11:00 am. This will be a moment of reflection, gratitude, and honor for his selfless service and the mark he left on the lives of those he encountered.

Thomas Charles Rivard's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know and love him. His legacy will continue to inspire and remind us of the importance of family, and service. In his absence, we find solace in the life he lived and the love he shared. May he rest in eternal peace.