Charles Thomas "Tom" McKaig, age 85, passed away on Friday, March 19, 2021, a resident of the San Diego area for over 60 years, currently residing in Riverside, California near his son Mark and daughter-in-law Renee.
Tom was born March 23, 1935, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Charles (Chick) and Eleanor (Ellie) Dudley McKaig. Tom was a graduate of Lansdowne High School and Drexel University. Tom and the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Blackburn McKaig married on 12/29/1956. In 1959, Tom accepted a job offer from General Dynamics in San Diego and there he built his career in Human Resources, lived his life, and raised his family. Though he was always one to return to the East Coast for family gatherings and high school reunions, Tom and Betty lived their life enjoying San Diego and never looked back. Tom was a devout Catholic.
Tom is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty, children, Diane McKaig Pierce (Larry), Mark McKaig (Renee), Drew McKaig (Terry) and Suzanne McKaig Laber (Mark), 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, brother-in-law, Kenneth A. Blackburn (Louise) and sister-in-law, Eileen Blackburn Barker, cousin, Eileen Dudley Thompson (Robert), and other beloved family, including nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends.
Tom worked at General Dynamics, Convair for 37 years, wrapping up his career as Director of Human Resources. In retirement, Tom loved caring for his plants, pool, and being a Pop-Pop. He and Betty enjoyed traveling the world with friends for many years, their favorite destination was always Maui and the other Hawaiian Islands.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Eleanor McKaig, and his brother, William (Dud) McKaig. Graveside Burial will be at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial donations made to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Lymphoma Society (LLS), Make a Wish, or Vitas Healthcare/Hospice of Riverside.
Thank you to all those that knew, worked with, and cared about Tom through the years. He was loyal and faithful to his family and friends, well respected and liked by all that knew him. Tom had a well-lived life; we will miss him and his humor. "May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. And rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand." Irish Blessing
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.PierceBrosCrestlawn.com for the McKaig family.
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