Thomas Michael Todd

Thomas Michael Todd passed away on October 12, 2025, at the age of 86 — leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and more sports trivia than most of us could ever hope to remember. Born on September 6, 1939, in Pierre, South Dakota, Mike made his entrance into the world just ahead of his twin brother, Pat — a fact he may or may not have reminded everyone of for the next eight decades. He was the beloved son of Loretta Kappenman Todd and Thomas Raymond Todd. As World War II came to a close, the Todd family moved west to California and Oregon before settling in Arlington, Virginia, in 1947, where they joined their dad after his service in the Navy. Mike graduated from Gonzaga High School in 1957 and went on to earn a degree in Economics from South Dakota State University — solidifying his lifelong devotion to the Jackrabbits. Later, he earned a master’s degree in counseling from Troy University in Alabama. In 1963, Mike entered the Air Force Officer’s Training Program and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. His service took him from Bunker Hill Air Force Base in Peru, Indiana, to Turkey — where he met his wife, Virginia (Eichhold) Todd. Together they built a beautiful life and raised two children, Michelle (Todd) Snyder and Jeffrey Todd, and he became a very proud grandfather to Reilly Snyder, Ava Snyder and Juliana Todd. Mike was adored by his family — and the feeling was mutual. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and anyone who was lucky enough to be part of his world. His affections were matched only by his loyalty to his favorite teams: the Gonzaga Eagles, the SDSU Jackrabbits, and Washington Commanders — though he’d be the first to admit that his enthusiasm depended on whether they were “any good that year.” A lifelong counselor, coach, and encourager, Mike never stopped mentoring, cheering, or occasionally embarrassing his loved ones by “attempting” to perform actual cheers. He coached soccer, offered advice freely (and usually wisely), and was the ultimate cheerleader in every sense of the word. He was also known for his famous “60-second calls” — quick daily check-ins to relay the day’s sports schedule, share a bit of family gossip, or simply remind you that you were loved. Every call ended the same way: “Give so-and-so (or the dog) a hug for me.” Mike’s passing leaves a deep hole in our hearts, one that no amount of cribbage rematches or sports commentary can fill. His kindness, humor, and unshakable optimism will echo in every phone ring, every game day, and every small act of love we share in his honor.

Tributes

Thomas Michael Todd

October 12, 2025