Description
Tom and Mary Vander Woude were blessed with a joyful marriage and a family of seven sons. As a Knight of Columbus, Tom was always a man of sacrifice and service, considering it a privilege to care for his son Joseph, who had Down syndrome, embracing him as one of God’s special children. After retiring from a career as a pilot, Tom settled his family on a farm in Virginia, where he remained active in his church and school community as a coach.
On September 8, 2008, Joseph fell into the family’s septic tank and struggled to stay afloat. Without hesitation, Tom jumped in to lift his son to safety, enabling Joseph to breathe and survive. In the selfless act of saving his son, Tom lost his own life, offering a profound example of sacrificial love reminiscent of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Since his death, family members and friends have experienced graces while seeking Tom’s intercession. Recognizing the extraordinary love and heroism of his final act, the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, is investigating Tom Vander Woude’s cause for sainthood.
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