Thomas McGillivray
Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Tom McGillivray was a proud Scotsman but even a prouder American. He married Sally Armour February 15, 1952 in Glasgow, Scotland and enjoyed 61 years of marital bliss.
Tom was born into a large, loving family and was the 12th of 13 children of Hector and Catherine Cameron McGillivray of Oban, Scotland. His parents relocated from the Highlands of Scotland to the industrial city of Glasgow after Hector returned from combat in the trenches of France in World War I as a member of Scottish Highlanders.
"Big Tam" as he was known within his family is survived by this brother Alan and numerous nieces and nephews spread throughout England and Scotland. Tom and Sally immigrated to Portland in 1954 set for adventure and opportunities that awaited them in their future.
After satisfying the required five year waiting period, they proudly became U.S. citizens. It was a memorable, defining life event for them and they welcomed the endless opportunities found in America. They had one son, Russell Thomas McGillivray and two beloved grandchildren, Colin Thomas McGillivray and Bryna Elizabeth McGillivray. Both were a Godsend to "Papa" and his pride and joy. "Papa" was a doting grandfather who appreciated and loved Colin and Bryna with all his heart.
In later years, he enjoyed watching his talented grandson play football and his granddaughter run track. It brought him tremendous pleasure and joy to know that they had found their athletic passions and underlying confidence that both have a great start on life.
Tom was a highly skilled Electrician, overseeing many of the largest construction projects in the Portland Metro area including the Portland Airport expansion and the building of the Portland Convention Center. He displayed a quiet leadership and appreciated the high performance of his teams. Tom was a proud member of IBEW Local#48 for over 50 years.
The McGillivray Family would like to express their love and gratitude to the many friends that were an important part of his life in his final days bringing good cheer and best wishes. Thank you to both the Kaiser Palliative Care Nurses and the home care givers from Willamette View Home Care that provided him with comfort and care and allowed him to spend his final days at home surrounded by those he loved. His generosity, dry humor and simple manner will be missed by all. He was a caring gentleman into his final hours.
At his wish, there will be no memorial service but Tom leaves this world with much love to his beloved friends and family. Those wishing to remember him may make a contribution to Shriners Hospital in Portland or St. Judes Hospital for Children.
Brother McGillivray was initiated into Local 48 on May 16, 1957. He retired January 1, 1992.
