Thomas Edward Bishop Jr.

Thomas Edward Bishop Jr, of Mesa, AZ, passed away, May 22, 2020 at the age of 64. He was born September 14, 1955 to Thomas Edward and Patricia [Connelly] Bishop in Long Branch, New Jersey. He attended Madison Township High School in Old Bridge, NJ and graduated in 1973. On June 29, 1978 he was married to Barbara Mae Taubman and the two started their life together. Tom worked for CPS Chemicals in Old Bridge, NJ for 20 years and continued in that job after it was taken over by CIBA specialty chemicals. He also volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician for 20 years and was a member of the Fire Brigade for CPS and CIBA. At the time of his passing, he was a proud employee of the City of Scottsdale Water Treatment Department, where he received an award for innovation. Tom was very proud of his involvement in the dog show world. When Tom met Barbara he became the owner of a Lhasa Apsos and a Komondor. After they passed he fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning a Bull Terrier named Roscoe. His crowning glory was being the owner of the 2006 Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show winner Rufus. Tom was a member of many dog clubs over the years such as, The Bull Terrier Club of America, The Central Arizona Bull Terrier Club, The Morris & Essex Kennel Club, Superstition Kennel Club, and The Saguaro State Bull Terrier Club. Tom was a “one of a kind man” who was meticulous in everything he did. He would not take on any task unless it was done thoroughly and correctly. To many, he was known as “by the book bishop”. He also loved anything to do with Harley Davidson. Tom owned two Harley Davidson Motorcycles, a 1996 Fatboy and a 2003 Ultra Classic. He would spend countless hours in his garage working on his Harleys, and was also a long time member of the Harley’s Owners Group (HOG). In 2014 Tom and Barbara moved to Mesa, AZ and joined the Central Arizona Bull Terrier Club where he was appointed as Secretary. Tom spent his finals days living a life filled with love and accomplishment. Tom is survived by his loving wife of almost 42 years, Barbara Bishop; his stepsons Paul Soldo and Frank Soldo; grandchildren Nick Soldo, Paul Soldo, Frank Soldo Jr, Samantha Soldo; his great grand daughter Savannah Soldo; as well as his siblings, Kevin, Timmy, Stephen, Jimmy and Patti. His family and many friends, will miss him dearly.