Obituary: Thomas Harold Denig

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Thomas Harold Denig, age 76, of Eagle, Idaho. He was a friend, mentor, leader, family patriarch, and loving husband of wife Kathy for 48 years. Tom was a remarkable individual whose life was marked by his deep commitment to his family, friends, and business colleagues.  His passing has left many with a profound sense of loss, yet numerous great memories.

Tom was born in Indiana in 1946, to parents Harold and Elizabeth. After graduating from high school, he pursued higher education, receiving a B.A. degree from Valparaiso University, after which he served a tour in Vietnam. As a proud Marine standing 6 foot 4 inches tall, with a commanding baritone voice and confidence to match, he found success after his military service as the President and CEO of Trus Joist, Senior Executive for Weyerhaeuser, founding member of RedBuilt, and numerous industry roles spanning over five decades. He continued his education as a graduate of the Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program and completed coursework in MBA programs at the University of Arizona and California State University.

As a friend and colleague, Tom was unwavering in his support and companionship, and he was a remarkable leader. He had a presence that made others feel valued and understood. He was a source of sage advice and genuine care, demonstrated by his classic deadpan sayings and booming laugh.  Tom possessed a unique ability to bring people together, foster deep connections and create lasting friendships. He believed in the power of lifting others up and creating a supportive community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he influenced. His absence will be keenly felt by all who had the privilege of calling him a friend.

Tom filled his life with family and outdoor adventure, including captaining his vessel “At Ease” and cruising in the Broughton Islands and Alaska. Tom and Kathy traveled the world for business and pleasure. He loved outdoor pursuits such as boating, water skiing, snowmobiling, snow skiing and enjoying the cabin on Cascade Lake. He was an accomplished fisherman and bird hunter.  Tom loved to run the rivers of Idaho, and over the years he patiently taught dozens of kids to waterski.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, sister Nancy, and his dear daughter, Krista Long, who held a special place in his heart. Krista was married to Chad Long for 19 years. Tom cherished their love and he valued the time he spent with his grandchildren Kyler, Bryson, and Jenna. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his son Tommy and his wife Sommar, his son-in-law Chad Long, and his three grandchildren.

Tom’s absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but we find solace in the memories we shared and the lessons he imparted. We invite all whose lives he touched to join us in honoring his memory and bidding him a heartfelt farewell on July 19th at 5:00 pm, at The Riverside Hotel. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to The Idaho Foodbank, in Tom’s name. For more information about Tom’s celebration of life, please visit the Bowman Funeral Parlor website.

Source: Bowman Funeral Directors