It's impossible to sum up in just a few paragraphs the incredible amount of life that T.J. lived in his short 24 years; there was so much in him that cannot be conveyed through words alone, but he was proud of his achievements and skills, and will be remembered for much.

In High School, T.J. competed in track and field, and wrestling- a hobby he never abandoned even later in life with no referee present- and enjoyed shop classes. He was student of the year when enrolled in ACC welding, and his instructor, Mr. Villareal, credited him with the invention of the program's tradition of hand-welding metal roses, a practice which he says has produced an innumerable amount of welded roses in the class- some brought to prom as flowers, and more than a few that brought many mothers to tears. Mr. Villareal encouraged T.J. to apply for, and complete the extremely selective Local Union 597 Hybrid Welding program. After an intensive 18 week course, he graduated to the apprentice program. On June 1, 2022, he was promoted to journeyman.

T.J. loved adventure and lived life on the edge. Through hiking, climbing, boating, hunting, and fishing, there is likely no public or private land in the Illinois Valley he left unexplored. He was known for his acerbic wit, clever sense of humor, and fierce loyalty to his friends and family. Some people light up a room upon entering; when T.J. walked in, it was more like a small explosion.

He did not get as much time as he deserved, but he did fill every moment of his life with love and thrill seeking in the time allowed him. If you were fortunate enough to be loved by T.J., you know that he loved as hard as he played, and he will be deeply missed by many. TJ's wish to be an organ donor is being fulfilled through Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network.