Thomas Eric Thorup

1945 — 2021

Longtime Sonora resident Thomas Thorup passed away at his home, on Dec. 13, 2021, at age 76. Tom lived the past 45 years in Tuolumne County, where he enjoyed petrology, fishing, canoeing, philosophy, arts and crafts, chief among them was creating leather moccasins, which gave him his nickname “Moccatom”.

“Moccatom” was a man full of life and adventure, who studied the Iching and Urantia beliefs, and he enjoyed sharing his wisdom with others. Tom was loved by all that knew him, and he shared that love through his generous heart and giving spirit. Tom spent his Wednesdays for two decades volunteering at Interfaith and found deep satisfaction giving back to the community that had given him so much.

Tom’s beloved dog, Scooter, will be placed to rest with him beside his mother, Augustine Barbara Gehammann-miller in Pleasant Hill, California.

Tom is survived by his two loving brothers, Michael and Stephen Thorup, and their families, of California. Tom is also survived by many dear friends and those that he considered family, leaving behind memories that will never be forgotten.

Memorial services to be announced at a later date. In lieu of cards or flowers, the family is asking those who cared for Tom to please make a donation to his most beloved charities, Interfaith of Sonora, or Friends of the Animal Community of Tuolumne County.

“Do not stand at my grave and weep: I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there, I did not die.”