Tom Bailie Obituary – Cause of Death News : “Hanford ‘downwinder’ dies at 76”

Tom Bailie, Nuclear Downwinder Advocate, Dies at 76

Tom Bailie, a farmer who lived near the Department of Energy’s Hanford Site in Washington state and dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of downwinders affected by nuclear radiation, passed away at the age of 76, as reported by the Spokane Spokesman-Review newspaper on Sunday.

A Life in the Shadow of Hanford Site

Born in Pasco, Washington in 1947, Tom Bailie’s family settled on a farm across the Columbia River from what is now the DOE’s Hanford Site. Growing up in such close proximity to the nuclear facility, Bailie’s mother took precautions to protect him from the potential cancer-causing effects of radiation. She provided him with daily pills, most likely potassium iodide, as mentioned in Trisha Pritikin’s book, “The Hanford Plaintiffs: Voices From The Fight For Atomic Justice.”

An Advocate for Nuclear Safety

Tom Bailie was a fearless advocate for nuclear safety. He even appeared on an episode of ‘Firing Line,’ a public television program hosted by conservative commentator William Buckley, to discuss this crucial issue. His dedication to raising awareness about the potential risks associated with nuclear power was unwavering.

A Stand Against Energy Northwest’s Columbia Generating Station

In 2011, Tom Bailie joined forces with Northwest Environmental Advocates to protest the renewal of the operating license for Energy Northwest’s Columbia Generating Station, located within the Hanford Site. His concerns were amplified after his visit to Fukushima, Japan, following the devastating nuclear accident in 2011. Bailie expressed his lack of faith in the safety of nuclear reactors in the United States and the believed environmental threat posed by their emissions.

Farewell to a Fighter

Tom Bailie’s passing marks the end of an era for the downwinders’ movement. His tireless efforts to hold the nuclear industry accountable and protect the rights of those affected by radiation exposure will not be forgotten. His obituary can be viewed on the Mueller’s Funeral Homes website.

While the cause of Tom Bailie’s death has not been disclosed, his legacy as a passionate advocate for nuclear safety and a champion for downwinders will continue to inspire others to fight for justice and protect our communities from the potential dangers of nuclear power..