A ROAST FOR FATHER TOM

On Saturday, August 30th, I was honored to be a part of my friend Father Tom Moffatt’s “Celebration of Life,” “Roast,” and “Legislative Presentation.” The Master of Ceremonies was Dirk Moffatt, Father Tom’s son and one of my legislative staff. The event, hosted by his friend Earl Mayo of the How How Restaurant, was very well attended by family, friends, and legislators.

The Invitation read, “Now is the time to celebrate Father Tom Moffatt’s life, his achievements, and unique personality. He is in a heroic battle fighting advanced lung cancer. First comes a ‘roast’ (which he so richly deserves!). Come enjoy sharing and listening to funny stories about Father Tom’s political adventures, and who knows what else! Then Father Tom, a man we all love, will receive a special presentation from the Alaska Legislature.” The presentation was an official Legislative Citation signed by legislators from both the House and Senate.

Sadly, Father Tom was too ill to attend. The event was video taped so he could see it at home. Even more sadly, Father Tom passed away on Tuesday, September 2nd – while Marlene and I were at the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis-St.Paul – and he never even got to see the event on tape.

There will be a special separate blog on Father Tom’s remarkable life.