BENT, JR., Thomas William

Thomas William Bent, Jr., 82, passed away January 24, 2004, at Westchester Care Center. He was born in Tucson, Az. on July 15, 1921. Tom graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in mechanical engineering. Upon graduation he took a job with the Salt River Project, becoming the Supervisor of the Mechanical Engineering Department. He retired from there after 27 years at the age of 55. Upon retiring he took a job at the Phoenix Zoo where he worked for another 9 years. Tom has been a member of Tempe/ Thunderbird Lodge #15 F&AM for the past 47 years. He is a Past Master of the Lodge, being the Master in 1964. Tom is survived by his 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Memorial service was held at Carr Tenney Mortuary 2621 S. Rural Rd. Tempe. Burial at Cypress Gardens, San Diego, CA. on Friday Jan. 30th. In lieu of flowers Tom requests contributions be made to the Thunderbird Lodge #15, 552 N. 40th St. Phoenix, Arizona 85006. Published in the Arizona Republic on 1/27/2004.