Thomas Arthur Metz

Thomas Arthur Metz November 15, 1944 May 27, 2016 Stayton, Oregon Tom was a happy man who lived a happy life. He and his beautiful wife Joan spent 35 wonderful years growing their love for one another and for God. Tom had many passions in his life. He was a state wrestling and football champion at the high school level as well as at the college level. Tom attended Southern Oregon University, but wasnt afraid to let you know he was a Duck fan. Tom also had a deep passion for Ham Radio and would spend hours out in his Ham shack just meeting people from around the world and talking to them over the radio.  He would come running into the kitchen with a big smile on his face because he couldnt wait to tell us who he just spoke to and what country they were from. Tom truly love his friends, but most of all, he loved his family. Being the devoted father and grandfather he was, when Tom and Joan had finished raising their own children, God gave them the blessing of adopting their grandson, now son, Cole Smith. They raised him and their granddaughter, Paige Smith and enjoyed every minute of it because as Tom said, “you kept us from getting old”. Family was so important to Tom. Nothing would make him happier than visits from his brother, his kids, grandkids, and even great grandkids. One of his favorite moments was talking with his brother, Ted Metz. They would talk of fond memories they shared about family, friends, and everything else that came to mind. Those two could talk for hours and never run out of things to say. Not only did Tom love when family would visit, he had an adventurous side of his own. He loved to road trip with his wife Joan and their dogs, Jessie and Tucker. Although it was never said, Jessie was his favorite. On their last adventure, they drove from Oregon to Colorado, visiting their son, Tim Smith, and daughter-in-law, Robyn Smith, and granddaughter, Tawny Gates. After visiting, they continued their journey to Kansas to visit Joans side of the family and proceeded to head back home.  Tom would practically fill up the memory card on his phone and camera with pictures of every new view they saw, every beautiful sunset, and every cool sign they passed. He lived his life with a smile and truly loved every moment. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Foothills Church in Stayton. Arrangements entrusted to Weddle Funeral Services.