Thomas J. Salgado April 17, 1942 - August 22, 2015

Sisters lost one of its most treasured residents on Saturday, August 22, with the sad passing of Thomas "Tom" J. Salgado after a brave, six-month battle with cancer.

Born on April 17, 1942, and raised in the Inland Empire of Southern California immersed in orange groves, martial arts and muscle cars, Tom was a constant force of goodwill in the Sisters community for over 30 years, a fountain of friendship to those fortunate to have known him, as permanent as the area's towering pine trees and as immutable as the Cascade peaks that frame our Western haven.

Whether making his morning French vanilla coffee stop at Space Age Gas to fill his travel mug, collect the weekly Wednesday donut box for his veteran friends at Sisters Coffee Company, or lending a sympathetic ear to someone down on their luck, Tom was a dynamo of tireless energy who would lend you the denim shirt off his back and the last $10 from his pocket if you needed it, all the while connecting friends, encouraging new acquaintances and networking like an indefatigable whirlwind.

His interest and loves were multi-faceted, ranging from purebred dogs to photography, classic cars, firearms and an occasional apple fritter, Indian salmon bake or some good Chinese food.

Recently inducted as an official member of the Sisters chapter of the Band of Brothers, Tom was recognized as an honorary veteran by the VFW and American Legion for his invaluable service.

His famous Lane Frost photo of the legendary rodeo star riding Redrock hangs in the homes of art collectors all over the region.

He was a daily familiar face around town, a genuine inspiration and a loyal friend and father to all who were lucky enough to cross his path.

He will be forever missed and remains brightly in our hearts so long as our memories remain.

Tom is survived by sons Scott of Bend, and Michael of Lake Havasu, Arizona; daughter Kim of Perris, California and sister Cecilia Edwards of Corona, California.

A Celebration of Life was held last Saturday at Sisters Community Church for friends and family.

Donations may be made to the Central Oregon Veterans Outreach at 61510 S. Hwy. 97, #100, Bend, OR, 97702.