Tom D Highland

Tom (Hoogterp) Highland Tom Highland passed peacefully on September 19, 2012. Tom was born May 23, 1915 in Ashton, SD, to Dutch immigrant parents John and Elizabeth Hoogterp. His family traced its history back before the 15th century with ancestors who started rescuing the land from the sea earlier than that. He had his last name translated to English in 1956. Tom joined the Spokane Police Department on October 23, 1950. He and his partner had a knack for catching hold-up men within 15 minutes of the act, at least four, in the time they worked together. Tom caught one hold-up man by himself and later was on National TV after that party had escaped and was recaptured after 20 years on the run. He worked in Wenatchee for the US Forest Service on timber sales until 1942 where he also worked in aircraft and mechanic trades which he apprenticed for between seasons with the forest services. He continued working in the trade part-time after that for another 30 years. Tom was an all-around handyman and able to fix anything in home or on a vehicle. He also had a passion for camping and fishing which he enjoyed doing with his grandchildren. Tom was preceded in death by his wife Esther, in 1970 and wife Hilda in 2001. He is survived by his son, Dale Highland; his grandchildren, Gretchen Coker, Russell Highland, Tamara Brydges; 4 great grandchildren; and his sister, Katherine Uecker. At his request, he asks for no services. Arrangements were handled by RIPLINGER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY Spokane, WA, Tom was laid to rest at Fairmount Memorial Park beside his wife Esther and his father John Hoogterp.