Thomas Alan Draper
April 19, 1946 - September 28th, 2010.

Thomas A. Draper, known as Tad to his friends, suffered a heart attack, resulting in his sudden passing, and slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God on Tuesday, September 28th, 2010.

Tad was born on April 19, 1946 in Washington DC and following graduation from the Air Force Academy in 1968 spent 22 years and 5 months on active duty with worldwide assignments before retiring in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After his Air Force career, Tad and his family settled near Omaha, Nebraska.

Tad was a good friend and trusted mentor. He lived a life of character and honor, daily living out the values of the Air Force and USAFA. Tad had great love and admiration for the Academy and was very active in the USAFA community. He worked with Academy liaison officers helping to recruit the best candidates for USAFA, founded the Heartland-LeMay Chapter of the USAFA Association of Graduates near his home in Papillion, Nebraska, and sponsored socials that included cadets during summer programs. Tad also established the Heartland-LeMay Leader of Character award, presented to local high students who best exemplify the values of the US Air Force Academy. He worked tirelessly in furthering the ideals of USAFA in the Omaha community.

Tad worked for Northrop Grumman as a software developer team lead for the SSC Omaha Space Intelligence Applications branch. He will be sorely missed by his friends and colleagues who admired his character and exemplary work ethic.

Tad's survivors include his wife, Becky; daughter, Belise; son, Jim; and son, Rob. One of Tad's favorite activities was skiing. He started skiing as a cadet and never lost his love for the slopes of Colorado. Skiing became a favorite activity for Tad's family. Tad also enjoyed golf and was particularly fond of the time he was able to spend with his sons on the golf course.

Funeral services for Tad were held on October 3, 2010 at Kahler-Dolce Mortuary in Papillion. His ashes were interred at USAFA on March 14, 2011--a fitting resting place for a man who care deeply about his alma mater and its people.

Condolences may be sent to his family in care of his wife, Becky: Mrs Rebecca A Draper; 1003 Shady Tree Ln; Papillion NE 68046-6193.

Memorials to the Nebraska Humane Society; 8929 Fort St; Omaha, NE 68134 (402) 444-7800, www.nehumanesociety.org.

"The “PR” photo of Shapes. (L. to R.: Tad Draper, Dick Frey, Hart Beckett, Spike Leet—underclassman and Dan Eikleberry). We were not nearly as big or famous as the Ascots, but, we did perform for squadron parties and a couple of Wingdings." Hartsel Beckett