Thomas Wills Livingston's Obituary
Thomas W. Livingston, 80, of Oakland passed away Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017. He was born July 26, 1936 in Oak Park, IL to David and Euphemia Livingston. Tom was the first Peace Corps volunteer to receive an experimental, overseas assignment, teaching English in Ghana from 1961-1963. Upon return, he obtained his PhD in African History at Columbia University and served as a professor at the University of California Berkeley from 1968 to 1975. Tom’s professional career then turned to his passion for antiques and the decorative arts and until his death was well known and respected as proprietor/owner of Thomas Livingston Antiques in San Francisco. He was a kind gentleman and scholar of art and history who enjoyed sharing his knowledge with visitors to his antique shop. Tom, a skilled pianist, and his partner, Karel Wessel, enjoyed entertaining friends in their Oakland apartment which displayed their collection of art and antiques. His passion for the decorative arts is evidenced by his roles as founder, and ardent supporter, of the American Decorative Arts Forum.
Tom is survived by his life partner, Karel F. Wessel of Oakland; his nephews, David (Nancy) Livingston III of Glen Ellyn, IL and Robert (Beth) Livingston of Columbia, MO; great-niece Jenna; great-nephews; Connor, Barry, Seth and Neil; and many dear loyal friends.
A Memorial will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at the Chapel of Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA, with a reception to follow.
Donations can be made at Berkeley Society of Friends, 2151 Vine Street, Berkeley, CA 94709 or at http://www.berkeleyfriendsmeeting.org/donate/
Additional information available at www.ChapeloftheChimes.com
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