Thomas Clements, 72

Thomas H. Clements, born Aug. 16, 1953, in Walla Walla, Wash., passed away April 18, 2026, in Moscow, Idaho, at the age of 72.

Tom was an extraordinary artist with a rare ability to capture the subtle nuances of light, air, temperature and atmosphere in the natural world. Gentle in spirit and meticulous in his craft, he carried that same attentiveness into his life — thoughtfully tending his plants, noticing a rabbit in the arboretum and finding beauty in places others might overlook. His sensitivity shaped every line and layer of his paintings, drawings and prints.

Tom also possessed an irreverent, sagely wit all his own. Dinner-table conversations could move effortlessly from kernels of wisdom to absurdist humor, often returning to one of his truest lessons: never take anything too seriously. He loved cinema and delighted in introducing others to films they might never have discovered, whether for their artistry, meaning, or simply the pleasure of being entertained.

Those who loved Tom remembered him as one of a kind: deeply talented, quietly funny, full of hidden gifts, and a “classic” who took tremendous pride in doing things well. Perhaps most importantly, Tom taught those around him that beauty is not merely something to admire, but something to notice, protect, and feel.

He leaves behind a world made more beautiful by his presence and his art. He is survived by Kayoko Nadamoto, his partner of 15 years; his siblings, Barb Stutz and Dan Clements; and the many friends he made throughout his life.

A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave., Sandpoint, Idaho.