Culver Resident, Former LAPD Officer Tam Dies

Gail Elvin Tam Jr. passed away Friday, May 10th at his home in Fruitland, Idaho. He was 78 years old. Memorial services will be held at 3 pm Saturday, June 1st at B.P.O.E 1690 20SW 3RD Street, Oregon, 97914. A private ceremony will be held at Emmett Cemetery. Condolences can be made to Gail E. Tam Jr. family at http://www.Shaffer-Jensenchaple.com. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Shaffer-Jensen Memory Chapel, Fruitland.

Gail was born Oct 1, 1940 in Guthrie County, Iowa. His parents were Gail E. Tam Sr .; a Los Angeles Fire fighter and Helen Tam who was mom to Gail and his brother Gary Tam.

Gail attended school in Culver City, California and graduated in 1957. He met his wife Kathryn Elizabeth Keorlin during this time.

Growing up, Gail and Kathryn were neighbors and would talk over the fence. Eventually, Gail asked Kathryn out on a date. They were married on Nov. 28, 1958 in Culver City California.

Gail served in the US Marine Corp. from 1959 to 1963 and was stationed in San Diego.

Gail was a police officer for over 45 years. Gail retired from the Los Angeles Police Department after 25 years and the Los Angeles Sheriff Department after 20 years before permanently retiring in 1993. Gail also taught criminal law at the Los Angeles Valley Community College. He also held office as Vice President of the Police Guild-American Federation of Teachers.

Gail was a member of the Ontario Elk (B.P.O.E) holding various positions.

Gail's wife passed away February 13, 2019. They were blessed with two sons; Ronald and Michael and their daughter Gayleen. They were equally blessed with six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren with the 9th due the first week of June.

Gail was happiest serving his community and always trying to make a difference. He touched so many lives. He lived a wonderful and fulfilling life.

Story and photo Courtesy The Argus Observer, Ontario, Oregon.