Obituaries

David and Chris, the previous words of condolence speak so eloquently of everyone's love and respect for your wonderful father, I feel inadequate. I worked in your dad's office as a secretary at UT from 1968-1972, and he was also a personal friend via our association in St. John's Methodist and the Allandale neighborhood. No one could resist his kind, loving, understanding, and generous spirit -- or twinkling eyes and smile. People could talk over anything with him, and he listened, with empathy! He represented everything that is good. He loved you so much, and I am so very sorry for your loss of a loving dad, and our/the world's loss of an incredibly special and unforgettable friend and mentor.

As another member of the world-wide choir who sing our praises to Tom Oakland, I echo the sweet memories and words of gratitude shared by so many. Tom generously shared his time and genuinely shared his attention with us. He helped us see the strengths we have, and he carefully suggested ways we could grow. He was a handsome guy with a sparkle in his smiling eyes. He was someone who made us feel special. He was always present, traveling to be with us on so many continents and focusing on us in his tell-me-how-you-are questions. He was generous in so many ways. And he was one of a kind.

Attached photo was taken to accompany a UF press release and news story announcing Dr. Oakland's selection in 2006 to receive the College of Education's Lifetime Achievement Award. The globe in foreground and world map in background are appropriate "props" considering the global scope of Dr. Oakland's work and influence as a scholar and humanitarian. Year:2006

This photo was taken to accompany a UF press release and news story announcing Dr. Oakland's selection in 2006 to receive the College of Education's Lifetime Achievement Award. The globe in foreground and world map in background are appropriate "props" considering the global scope of Dr. Oakland's work and influence as a scholar and humanitarian.

To David & Chris and all who were touched by Tom's work and commitment to children and the preparation of psychologists internationally. David & Chris, you likely don't remember me. I was one of your Dad's students while completing my doctoral work in Austin. My sons, David (also) and Kevin, are about your ages and they played with you two at some UTx School Psychology parties in the middle 70s. Your Dad was a mentor to me while I studied there but became more so during the intervening years up to several weeks ago when we shared an extended phone conversation about international school psychology. He knew my wife, Lynn, well and always spent quality time with us at conferences in the US and internationally. When I first learned of his death it was as if all the air had been sucked from my lungs ... the grief and loss still lingers. Of course, our sense of loss can't compare to that of yours. Yet, I want you to know how important your father was to me and my family and so many others. He always spoke so lovingly of you and his grandchildren. We share your grief and hope to live up to the standards he set personally and professionally.