MARYLAND – Thomas W. Eklund, 70, passed away at home after a long struggle with cancer on January 13, 2018.

Thomas was born on December 5, 1947 in Stamford, NY, son of Robert and Pauline Eklund. Tom grew up in Davenport and graduated from Stamford Central School.  He then attended drafting school prior to joining the United States Navy and serving during the Vietnam War.

Thomas married Deborah Ingalls in 1999.

For many years he worked as a farm machinery parts manager and subsequently as a cabinet maker. His talents were many.  He could build a house and he could build a guitar. He could fix a toaster or a locomotive.  He loved to travel and explore.  We can remember this by his exceptional photography.

Tom attended Main Street Baptist Church in Oneonta and was an active volunteer for the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad.

Tom lived with integrity. He showed strength and grace through difficult times in his life.  He didn't complain and was always calm in the midst of chaos.  He was witty and had a refreshing sense of humor.  He was hard working, talented and artistic.  He loved God and the beauty of His creation.  He loved his family, his country, the Beatles and trains.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Eklund; son, Michael Eklund (Wendy); daughter, Kerry Eklund (Joseph) and grandson, TJ Roberts; stepchildren, Jesse (Amber) Ingalls and grandsons, Connor and Grayson, Jenny (Charles) Brett and grandchildren, Dionna, Amy, Rea, Makenzie, Hunter and Reuben; Justin (Ashley) Ingalls, and Joanna Ingalls. He is survived also by a brother, John (Melissa) Eklund and nephews, Derek and Dylan; and a sister, Bette Jayne (Richard) Spinney and niece Candi (Scott) Mattice; brother, Robert (Charlene) Eklund, step-siblings, Dan, Larry and Rick Accordino and families.  He is also survived by many other dear friends and family members.

Tom had eyes that saw the best
A heart that forgave the worst
A mind that forgot the negative
He was truly blessed.

Calling hours will be held 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday, January 19, at Main Street Baptist Church, 333 Main St., Oneonta.

The funeral service will be 4 p.m., Saturday, January 20, at Main Street Baptist Church, with the Rev. Gary Bonebrake, officiating.

Interment with military honors will be held at the Maryland Cemetery 1:00 p.m., Friday April 13, 2018.  Please join the family after the service for a memorial train ride on the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad.  The train will depart from the Depot in Milford which is located just east of Route 28 on Route 166.  Address is 136 East Main Street, Milford.  All who would like to honor Tom's life are welcome.

Memorial donations may be made to: Peter Eklund, campus minister at SUCO and Hartwick colleges, www.missionsdoor.org/missionary/eklund-peter or Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad, PO Box 681, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are entrusted with the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral home, 51 Dietz St. Oneonta.