Thomas Lanford Hammond

On Wednesday, July 15, 2020, Thomas (Tom) Lanford Hammond passed away peacefully after a short illness at the age of 67. Tom was born in Denton, Texas and moved to Bakersfield, California with his family in 1966. He graduated from West High School in 1971 and attended Bakersfield College before beginning his professional career in electronics and IT consulting. Tom worked for Kern High School District, AB Dick Office Machines, Carneys Business Technology Center, IKnow Technologies and was the business owner of Copperline IT Solutions until 2015. Tom's intrigue with electronic control systems and computers was fueled by his experience as the manager of The Electric Carousel Arcade in the late 1970's. Old pinball machines or the new arcade technology PONG was his training ground for electronics. If it had wires and relays and electronic connections, he could make it work. Tom was also known for his appreciation of good music. Jazz, Blues, Rock and Roll and a little bit of country was always available for a listen at the Hammond household. Old Blue Eyes was a favorite to sing along with when he was in the mood to serenade his wife of 9 years, Mary Hammond. Tom married Mary in 2010 and filled the house with music and great food for their time together. His foodie side was always experimenting with different recipes and searching for the perfect Chili Verde. In their house, the kitchen belonged to Tom and that was a welcome arrangement. Fast cars, motorcycles, scuba diving and golf were past times that kept Tom active. Monterey Bay was a favorite dive location and trips to the coast on his Harley made for many, many stories to tell. Tom is preceded in death by his father, Robert and his sister, Sue Spigler. He is survived by his wife Mary, his mother, Martha Swain and his brother Bob and his family. Services: A celebration of life will be planned after the current social distant restrictions are lifted. Tom requested music, singing and great food.