Thomas William Straw

Thomas Straw, age 69, passed away on February 23, 2026, in Laguna Niguel, California, surrounded by his loving friends and family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 4, 1957, in Newport Beach to William and Viola Straw, Tom was the quintessential California beach boy. Growing up just steps from the Pacific, he spent his youth surfing, swimming, and embracing a life of adventure alongside his parents and younger sister.

Tom attended Mariner’s Elementary, Horace Ensign Intermediate, and Newport Harbor High School. Since both his parents worked for the school district, Tom was a naturally conscientious student—a trait he carried through his years at UC Santa Barbara, where he studied Economics and met his late wife, Diane.

Professional and Community Life

Tom enjoyed a successful career in Sales and Marketing, spending much of his professional life with 3M. Known for his integrity and ability to build lasting connections, he was a respected figure in his industry and an active member of several community groups. Guided by a solid foundation in faith, Tom left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Family and Legacy

Family was the cornerstone of Tom’s life. As a devoted father to sons Jack and Robert, Tom was a constant supporter, steady mentor and role model. He actively coached youth sports and led Indian Guides, creating cherished memories through outdoor adventures and shared traditions. He instilled values of hard work, sportsmanship and high moral character, leaving a positive impact on the lives of so many around him. After the passing of his first wife, Diane, Tom found love again and married Catherine. Through this union, he gained three daughters and a beautifully expanded family. At the time of his passing, Tom was the proud grandfather of eight.

Tom is survived by his wife, Catherine; his sister, Susan; his sons, Jack (Diane) and Robert (Meg); and his stepchildren, Angela (Billy), Stephanie (Eliot), and Maria (Stephen). He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Kennedy, Camden, Violet, Wyatt, Ambrose, Theodore, Eliza, and Owen, as well as many dear cousins, friends and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Viola Straw, and his late wife, Diane Dolby Straw.

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Service Information

• Celebration of Life Mass: Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM

o Location: Harbor Point Church (Chapel), 32222 Del Obispo St, San Juan Capistrano.

• Reception: To follow at Young’s Beach Shack, 33333 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

• Interment: A burial at sea will take place at a later date, returning Tom to the waters he loved so much.