James Thomas Hildesheim

James Thomas Hildesheim (Papa Tom) was born January 1, 1937 in Pine Bluff Arkansas and passed May 15, 2025 in Post Falls, ID.

At the age of 13, Tom and family moved from Arkansas to Washington where better opportunities were available. Tom graduated from Mead high school where he excelled at sports and academics. He married his sweetheart Betty Garrett in 1955, and they remained by each other’s side for 65 years. Tom and Betty had 4 children, (Sharon, Mike, Patty and Jeff), 8 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Tom was the original adrenaline junky and loved anything to do with motorcycles, speed, explosions, and loud motors. With the help of his best friend, Roy Basler, he started the Brush Bunch Motorcycle Club in 1970. Tom stayed an active hall of fame member into his late 80s, notching his last ride at the age of 87.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife Betty, son Mike, brothers Richard and Marvin, and sisters Mary and Betty. There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at 1:00pm at English Funeral Chapel on Spokane St. in Post Falls, ID.