John Thomas "Tom" Birkett Tom, age 60, was born October 22, 1950 in Mount Vernon, WA to John M "Johnny M" and Grace Birkett; he passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 18th in Everett. Tom graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1970. He then attended Skagit Valley College and the University of Washington where he received his Bachelor's degree. He was preceded in death by his parents. Tom is survived by his wife of 35 years, Darlene and his daughters, Megan and Sarah, grandchildren Grady, Wyatt, Callie and Elliot and son-in-laws Matt and Chris. Tom was a loving husband and devoted father and grandfather who will be missed by all who knew him. He loved spending time with family and friends, camping and sports in general but most of all baseball and the Washington Huskies. Tom was a firm believer that getting an education was extremely important and for that reason the family asks that in lieu of flowers please consider making a contribution to the scholarship fund of your choice at Mount Vernon High School, Burlington-Edison High School, Skagit Valley College or University of Washington. A Celebration of Tom's life will be held Saturday, November 24, 2012, 11:00 am at Hawthorne Funeral Home, followed by a reception at the Skagit County PUD Aqua Room.