Please join us in remembering Thomas Drouet (July 16, 1931 – April 8, 2017)
A message from the family:
Thomas L. Drouet (July 16, 1931 – April 8, 2017) was a kind-hearted, life-long teacher, and volunteer who helped many people reach for their dreams. He loved teaching and always did so with witty humor and humble pride, whether he was: instructing as a math professor; discussing the stars and universe as an amateur astronomer; sharing his love for concert band music as a devout musician; pointing out birds as an avid nature lover; or chatting about the games of baseball, football, and basketball as a sports enthusiast.
Tom was a life-long Southern Californian. His stories of the orange groves of yesteryears and his love for his own orange and fig trees could make anyone wish for days gone by. His excitement and aggravation for the Clippers and Lakers as well as the Angels and Dodgers could make anyone a fan: he always said, “You only really have to watch the last two minutes or innings, but hey why not watch the whole game.”
Above all else, he completely adored UCLA football – well, anything UCLA.
Tom loved performing as a clarinetist with the Los Angeles Police Band (now COPS), Covina Band, and UCLA Alumni Band (30+ year member.) He was a committed supporter of Los Angeles Astronomical Society, Orange County Astronomers, and Griffith Observatory and often brought his telescopes for the public’s use in viewing the stars above. He also participated in astronomy outreach programs at our local schools, enthusiastically sharing the wonders of our sky with the scientists of tomorrow.
We love you so very much Dad and will miss you every day. We are thankful for you and we know you are now a star shining down on the City of Angeles that you loved so very much. Thank you for everything you did for all of us and for showing us how to live life to its fullest.
Tom is survived by his sister Pauline Ide and his two daughters, Marie and Louisa Drouet. He passed away peacefully in his hometown of Whittier, California at the age of 85. Celebrations of his life will be held privately.