Calvin Thomas Ethington, Age 72, passed away peacefully at his home in Ahwatukee, Arizona, on December 22, 2024, during the winter solstice, a fitting departure in true Irish fashion.

Calvin, affectionately known as "Tom," was born at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, and raised in Casa Grande. He was the beloved husband of Catherine Ethington, devoted father to Calvin Thomas Ethington II and Laura M. Ethington, and proud grandfather to his three cherished pups, Gianni, Mimi, and Pippy. He was predeceased by his son, David P. Ethington, whose memory he carried deeply in his heart. Tom is also survived by his loving mother, L. Jane Ethington.

Tom was larger than life, with an infectious personality that could light up any room. Whether he was chatting with a stranger or sharing a laugh with friends, Tom embodied the Irish "gift of gab," a master conversationalist who left an impression on everyone he met. He never missed an opportunity to enjoy an Irish coffee, always sharing the whipped cream with his beloved pups.

Tom was raised in a family deeply rooted in the Casa Grande community. His lineage was one of service, faith, and leadership. His grandfather, Peter Ethington, was a rancher, businessman, cotton farmer, and one-term Arizona State Senator. The family's legacy included collaborating to establish Trinity Baptist Church and contributing to institutions such as Grand Canyon College, where Ethington Memorial Arts Center is a tribute to their enduring impact.

Tom's high school years were filled with music, joy, and camaraderie. As a member of the band Microwave Dilemma, he and his friends shared the stage with notable acts and filled venues with their renditions of popular hits. From semi-lucrative gigs to late nights cleaning up, these moments shaped his love of music and his knack for turning ordinary experiences into unforgettable memories.

Professionally, Tom's career was as diverse as his passions. From insurance brokerage in Casa Grande to special events coordination with Easter Seals, communications at the American Heart Association, and success as a realtor with Coldwell Banker's Million Dollar Club, Tom brought dedication and charisma to every role he undertook. Later in life, he found joy in home repair and painting, lending his talents to others.

Tom met the love of his life, Cathy, in 1983 during a bike ride from Tucson to Phoenix sponsored by Easter Seals. He was driving the "sag wagon," but their journey together truly began after that ride, culminating in their marriage in March 1985. Together, they built a life filled with family, love, and shared adventures.

Tom's passions were as varied as his talents. A fitness enthusiast, he could often be found at the gym or cycling around Ahwatukee with his family. He was a master chef and BBQ king, always searching for new recipes to share. His joy in cooking and hosting reflected his larger-than-life spirit, a man who loved deeply, lived fully, and brought people together.

Tom's legacy is one of laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. In his honor, the family invites everyone to carry forward his zest for life, his kindness, and his unwavering ability to make others smile.

Tom's life will be celebrated later in the spring with details to come later. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Family Promise (familypromiseaz.org) or simply raise an Irish coffee in his memory and share a story that makes you smile.

Rest easy, Tom; you were truly one of a kind.