It's with great sadness that I pass along the news that Arizona Highways contributor and wildlife photographer Tom Vezo has passed away suddenly. He was hiking with a friend in the Rincon Mountains on Friday when he suffered a massive heart attack.
Not only was he one of the top bird photographers in the world, but he gave generously of his time to his community and the protection of the species and habitats that were such a big part of his career as a wildlife photographer.
Tom was a personal friend of mine and I pass this along with shock and dismay.
Posted by Richard Wong on July 21, 2008 at 5:55 PM
Unfortunate news, George. My condolences to your friend. From looking at his site, he had a great body of work.
Very sad news to hear, George. His site displays some simply amazing work, with some very fine photographc art from his many years in the field. My condolences go out to his family and friends.
Sure is sad... I met him once & could tell he was a kind man... not to mention a great photographer...... We should all make every trip out photographing like it's our last.... I bet Tom did.
JG
I understand your dismay. Unexpected death is unexpected and it is death.
I didn't know Tom (although I think I bought a lens from him once - edit, nope the lens came from a friend of his, Jim Roetzel). Deaths often leave me shooting along a glide path, like Willie Coyote, only to find that the floor has dropped out and there is no option but down as gravity takes over.
I revisited Tom's website. There is a wonderful collection of photographs there. I believe that was evidence of a passion that we can all toast.
It's with respect and sense of sadness that I offer my sorrow in the loss of your friend. Growing up in an Irish family and community I was surprised at how families often reacted in the loss of a loved one, at least at public services. As I get older, I now understand the idea of celebrating how lucky we are to have known our friends, and the life and memories we shared. Something I suspect you understand at this time as well. Tim
Discussion
10 repliesNot only was he one of the top bird photographers in the world, but he gave generously of his time to his community and the protection of the species and habitats that were such a big part of his career as a wildlife photographer.
Tom was a personal friend of mine and I pass this along with shock and dismay.
Guy
JG
John
I didn't know Tom (although I think I bought a lens from him once - edit, nope the lens came from a friend of his, Jim Roetzel). Deaths often leave me shooting along a glide path, like Willie Coyote, only to find that the floor has dropped out and there is no option but down as gravity takes over.
I revisited Tom's website. There is a wonderful collection of photographs there. I believe that was evidence of a passion that we can all toast.
Pete D.