Tom was born in Fort Pierce, Florida. He studied Graphic Design at Kansas University and graduated with distinction in 1966. 

He began his 33 years in advertising at Young & Rubicam Chicago, then at two other advertising agencies before returning to Young & Rubicam, rising to Executive Vice-President and Executive Creative Director.

Tom’s most widely recognized work is the image he helped craft for Crate and Barrel. During a decades-long collaboration with the company’s founders, he created the famous Crate and Barrel logo and distinctive packaging still in use today. His work for the company is included in the permanent design collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

In retirement, Tom brought a passionate intensity to each of his creative endeavors: photography, painting, the design of his home in Lakeside, MI and his home and art studio in Tucson, AZ. He enrolled in the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, taking classes and briefly served on its advisory board while pursuing an active career as an artist.

Chicago Tribune, 2024