Thomas Haynes Brundin III was born on January 19, 1952, to Thomas and Ellen Brundin in Crescent City, Ca, and said humchi (goodbye) to his loved ones on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Tommy was a contemporary traditionalist, warrior, artist, and bigfoot entrepreneur. A brother, cousin, uncle, friend, dad, and husband, he impacted the lives of many. He was a keeper of good company, and his values of honesty, integrity, and protection were known by those whom he welcomed into his life. Tom had the best stories, especially ones rooted in Tolowa teachings and legends. He lived a sustainable life, one that was kind and gentle to the earth.
Tom was recognized for his fine craftsmanship and was a prolific and prominent regalia maker for the Tolowa and Yurok ceremonies. His signature necklace style could be spotted by anyone who knew good work. Tom showed his love through his regalia making and was generous with his love to his family, and community through honoring his Tolowa heritage. He was Influential to his family, through his art, philosophies, love, and protective, and supportive nature.
He is survived by his wife Stacy Brundin and their children Aspen and Aeri (Kai), and his pup Jacky. His aunt’s Irene (Huffman) Reidel, and Viola (Bill) Richards, siblings Kara (Rob) Miller, Marta Brundin, Luanna Scott, and Eric Brundin. Known as Uncle Tommy to Kurt (Megan) Miller, Sara (TR) Samples, Brie (Koiya) Tuttle, Aleah Smith, Brady McConaghy, Kara (Hawk) Mattz, Karlie Scott, Ericka (Elise) Brundin, Laura (Ben) Valley, Kimberly Brundin, Thomas (Edie) Brundin, and Andrew (Monique) Brundin, and cousin to John (Wanda) Green and many other cousins, father-in-law Lee Burges, step-mother Ellen (Paul) Hardman, Brother-in-law’s, Westley (Kristy) Burgess, Darren (Sonja) Burgess and sister-in-law Charmell (David) Camacho and many more family and friends.
The void left by Tommy’s departure on his journey is immense, and he is already deeply missed by his devoted wife Stacy, and his loving cherished family. His memory will forever serve as a beacon of trust, love and diligence that will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He lived an amazing life and enjoyed being a stepfather and father.
Pallbearers include, Kurt Miller, Koiya Tuttle, Thomas Brundin, Andrew Brundin, Juan Amador, and Aaron Newton. Honorary Pallbearers include Eric Brundin, John Green, Rob Miller, Willie Thompson, Westley Burgess, John Hunt, and Asa Mattice.
Thank you to Three Rivers Medical Center and all medical practitioners for the care showed to Tom, his wife Stacy and family. In lieu of flowers please consider a gift to support his daughter Aeri.
A wake will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, from 7 PM to 7 AM at the 1910 Indian Shaker Church at 101 Indian Ct, Smith River, Ca. Services will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 11 AM at the 1910 Indian Shaker Church with graveside services to follow at the Howonquet Indian Cemetery. A potluck and celebration of life will be held at Elk Valley Rancheria, 2332 Howland Hill Rd. Crescent City, CA immediately following graveside services.