Eric Thom

March 14, 1958 - May 1, 2024

Eric Thom was born on March 14, 1958, in Chillicothe, Ohio, to Joseph Thom and Lillian (Rosenstein) Thom. On May 1, 2024, he died at his home, under the loving care of his husband, Michael Curtis, and brother, Sam Thom.

When Eric was a toddler the family relocated to Setauket, New York where he attended public schools, graduating from Ward Melville High. With a keen interest in radio and communications, Eric enrolled at SUNY-Fredonia. During his time at Fredonia he became the manager of the student radio station, WCVF AM & FM. After graduating, Eric's first job was with the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) in NYC, where he opened the door for many Fredonia interns. In the mid-1990s an offer to work for KING Broadcasting brought Eric to Seattle where he became the marketing director for KING AM and FM. Sale of King Broadcasting provided the opportunity for exploring other job options, including employment with the Puget Sound Blood Center. The start of a new millennium found Eric launching what would become a highly successful career in non-profit development. Over the following 20+ years, Eric's efforts were instrumental in raising millions of dollars in charitable contributions for KPLU, KUOW, the Seattle Men's and Women's Choruses, HopeLink, Habitat for Humanity and Food Lifeline.

Eric first met Michael in an AOL chatroom. Not one to linger on an opportunity, he asked Michael out on a coffee date for later that week. That was the beginning of a 25-year relationship, including their 2003 marriage in Vancouver, BC.

Upon moving to Seattle, Eric joined the Seattle Frontrunners. He successfully ran the Vancouver Marathon, the Hood to Coast Relay, the Kona and Mercer Island half-marathons and multiple 5k and 10k fun runs. A favorite event was the Warrior Dash, where he fully embraced the costume/body paint element of the run. His greatest athletic achievement was conquering the Men's Health Urbanathlon, with his friends from Elite Fitness. As a scrawny, unathletic, often-bullied kid growing up, he never would have dreamed that someday he'd be participating in an event requiring the athleticism of the Urbanathlon let alone with a group of athletes that fully embraced him as a member of their team.

Eric led a life directed by a strong moral compass. Not one to suffer fools, he was known for the truth he brought to any and all experiences, often reflected through his sharp wit and biting cynicism. His candor was only surpassed by his integrity and his commitment to being an asset to society. Facing multiple health challenges, the last three years of his life underscored his grit, toughness and courage.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his husband, Michael; his brother, Sam; stepchildren Erin Newton (Charles) and Paul Curtis; and in-laws, Jeff Curtis (Lisa) and Greg Curtis (Joan). "Pop" also leaves behind his two beloved grandchildren, Neko and Cody; as well as multiple nieces and nephews. Other special friends include: Pat Meany (Zar Zarenski), college mentor Dan Berggren; and his WCVF Fredonia alumni buds. The family "furs," Maggie and Gnocchi, miss cuddling up at his side.

A life celebration is planned for a future date. If so inclined, donations in Eric's memory may be made to the National LGBTQ Task Force or to the Fredonia College Foundation for the Dan Berggren Excellence in Audio and Radio Award (an award co-initiated by Eric in 2005).

Please share memories, condolences, & photos on the Tribute Wall, located above.

Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle