Tributes

Tom started his remarkable 40 plus years in law enforcement as a military police officer with the United States Air Force. He retired after 20 years, then worked several years as a college police officer and as a corrections officer before he ended up at the Fresno VA as a Federal Police Officer. Tom would talk about the Security Forces and how he protected missile sites and how he truly enjoyed doing his job. Many learned a lot from Tom, specifically how to be compassionate and caring in doing our job as a Police Officer. For those of you who knew him, he was a gentle giant willing to help anyone in need. He spent his life being selfless and was a friend to many. He mentored many of the police officers at the VA, as he was their rock and comfort. It was simply running through his veins to be the “Protector". Being on patrol with Tom in the hospital and going to calls and just watching how he protected everyone. Tom had a way of talking the situation down (we all knew Tom loved to talk), I’m sure the Veterans were also looking at him and thinking “I don’t want to mess with him!”. The medical staff would praise Tom with “thank yous” and he would just say, “are you ok?”. I could tell you a lot of the nurses and doctors felt safe when Tom was on patrol. Tom never wavered in being the “Protector”, even right before he retired he worked patrol on the very last day he could. Everyone felt safe when Tom was on patrol. He has been greatly missed at the VA hospital. To Rosa and Tristen all I could say is we are here for you. You will always be a part of the VA family. I know we can never replace Tom, but I tell you he is watching from heaven right now praying for you and protecting you. A scripture from the bible that reminded us about Tom, Psalm 91:14, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.” Our strength in all times good and bad comes though Jesus Christ. He will carry you through this. My Prayers are with you every day Rosa. Tristin, your dad was a great man. I know you will make him proud in being the “Protector” of your mom and your home. Let your dad’s example be your path. Make him proud as you always have. Tom left an unremarkable legacy at the VA hospital. His family should be very proud of Tom on how he touched so many people’s lives and not just at the hospital but he also volunteered coaching at Edison high school. Tom really enjoyed talking about his coaching. I’m sure a lot of you heard his stories about Edison high school and how proud he was of them. One day we will be talking to Tom again, but for now let’s celebrate his memory and remember to always be caring and compassionate to everyone, as Tom did. Tom you are our hero, We miss you!! Chaplin…

Tributes

Thomas Michel Bivings

August 30, 1955 - November 21, 2016