Capt. Thomas Robert Spring

Thomas “Tom” Robert Spring, 91, was a devoted husband, father, and American patriot who committed himself to a decades-long career in the Aerospace Industry. Tom peacefully passed away in the evening of June 8, 2024, surrounded by his wife and family, at their home in Woodland Hills, California. Predeceased by sisters Joy (Spring) Bashford (01/27/92), Jacqueline (Spring) Neifing (01/10/01), and Cleytus “Cleo” (Spring) Downey (10/08/20).

Born on September 21, 1932, in Wichita, Kansas, Tom led a remarkable life filled with many personal achievements and professional accomplishments.

Tom's journey in the Aerospace Industry began at the University of Wichita (now Wichita State) where he studied mechanical engineering. While at university, he enrolled in the Air Force ROTC program with the aim of graduating college, entering the service as an officer, and becoming a pilot. While serving in the Air Force, Tom was recruited by North American Aviation (now a division of Boeing) to work on the development of rocket propulsion systems. This was the dawn of the United States space program. Tom’s work with the engineering teams at North American Aviation quickly evolved into what would eventually be known as the Apollo Space Program. Exhibiting a talent and passion for innovation, Tom’s commitment to his work was evident in the precision and expertise he brought to each project.

Beyond his professional success, Tom was a loving husband to Ann Spring and a devoted father to their eight children: Joseph, Tamara, Tiara, Anna, Thomas, Benjamin, Andrew, and Matthew. His children meant the world to him, and he took immense pride in raising and supporting each of them. He was also a devoted grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Christopher, Cole, Hannah, Alyssa, Sadie, Thomas, Joah, Ellie Mae, Lucas, Micah, Olivia, Elias, and Eliana Rose. Tom was also a skilled craftsman who enjoyed working with his hands, so much so, that he designed and built their family home in Southern California.

In addition to his role as a loving husband and devoted father, Tom enjoyed tinkering with engines, both big and small, and held a deep appreciation for architectural design. A loyal lifelong fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Tom also enjoyed simple pleasures like eating roasted peanuts in the shell, listening to talk radio, and taking his family on cross-country adventures in their sixteen passenger Ford Econoline van.

A man of integrity and honor, one of Tom’s proudest accomplishments was serving his country and achieving the rank of Captain as a pilot in the United States Air Force, where he sang baritone in the airmen’s choir. His quiet faith and humble demeanor masked a profound intellect; he was a deep thinker who always took the time to involve others and share his knowledge.

As friends and family gather to commemorate Tom, let us also celebrate a life well lived, a life marked by a selfless dedication to family, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering love of country and an unconditional love for those around him. Though Tom may have left us physically, his spirit continues to live on in the hearts and minds of all who were blessed to know him.

Rest in peace, Captain Spring. You were the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend anyone could have ever hoped for. You are dearly missed and will be eternally cherished in our thoughts.

“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.”

—RONALD REAGAN

Services will be held at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills at the Old North Church on June 27th at 5:00 PM.