Thomas "Tom" Robert Furber

Thomas Robert Furber, a man of fervent faith, steady resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family, passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of cheerful optimism, hard work, and humble service.

Born just a few years before the Great Depression, Tom grew up in rural Florida amidst pine woods and clay roads where he developed a deep appreciation for the blessings of life, both large and small. From an early age, he embraced hard work while raising chickens, fishing in local lakes, and caring for a variety of animals, including a few pet alligators and a flying squirrel!

Through life’s trials, including the loss of his family home to fire as a teenager and heart troubles in his later years, Tom remained steadfast and hopeful. Guided by his parents, teachers, and other professional mentors, he earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Manchester University in Indiana and then a master’s degree in natural science from Highlands University in New Mexico. After finishing his education, he and his family settled in Arvada, Colorado, where he eventually ended up swapping his high school classroom for a twenty-four-year career as a real estate broker and small-scale developer.

A man of enduring faith, Tom was deeply devoted to his church and community and lived his life anchored to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He found joy in simple moments, strength in adversity, and purpose in guiding others. He was always willing to answer his Savior’s call to serve, as evidenced by his volunteer relief efforts after World War II and years of service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including as a full-time missionary, temple worker, and youth leader in his local congregation. Known for his warmth, humor, wisdom, and rich storytelling, Tom will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and true friend. His legacy of faith, perseverance, love, and indomitable optimism will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Richard Furber and Lily Evelyn Pawling, and by his older sister, Margaret Furber. He is survived by his beloved wife of seventy-four years, Patricia Ann Furber, and his three children Michael (Marcia), Lorraine (Steven), and Daniel (Sherrie), as well as eleven grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren.