Thomas Floyd Zirkel was born on May 20, 1933 in Clatskane, Ore., to Floyd and Dorothy Zirkel. Tom graduated from Burns High School and was a veteran, serving in the military during the Korean war. Tom attended college at OTI in Klamath Falls. Tom completed his Associates Degree and became an electrician.

After Tom met and married Leanna Gullett and together they had two, sons Jerry and John. Tom and Leanna raised their two sons in Hines. His wife Leanna passed away in 1978.  Tom and Jean met and married in 1980, they lived in Hines until Tom resigned at Edward Hines Lumber Company. 

Tom and Jean moved to Scio, Ore., in 1984, Tom worked as an electrician for Morris Brothers until he retired. Tom enjoyed living on their farm, traveling, visiting kids and grandkids. Tom loved fishing, trips to the coast,and farming on their 40 acre piece of heaven.

Tom and Jean enjoyed their happy 42-year marriage together. Tom passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 30 2023, at the age of 89.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Dorthy Zirkel; sister, Patty Behrends; first wife, Leanna Gullett; two sons, Jerry, John, and granddaughter, Amber. 

Tom is survived by his wife, Jean Zirkel; daughter-in-law, Heather Zirkel of Springfield Ore.; four step children: Tamera Higgenbotham of Tillamook, Teresa Imel of Scio, Robby Pepperling of Hawaii, and Bill Pepperling of Grants Pass; grandchildren, great-grandchildren; great-great-granddaughter, extended family and friends.