Tom is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Phyllis, his brother, Richard, his son, Brian and daughters, Bonnie (Brian) Chappell and Leslie, 7 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.
Tom was born in Craigflower Manor, Victoria and spent his early years in Oyster River. He joined the RCAF in 1940 and served as a wireless operator/gunner in Coastal Command, in Iceland and the United Kingdom. While posted in Dundee, Scotland, he met and married the love of his life, Phyllis.
Upon their return to Canada, Tom completed a Bachelor of Education at UBC, and later a Masters of Education through Western Washington. He taught in Port Alberni, before entering school administration. He was a principal in Alberni, Quesnel and Prince George before retiring in 1984.
During his teaching years, Tom coached soccer teams and was very involved as a Boy Scout Leader. Tom and Phyllis were avid square dancers and for 58 years, twirling their way all over the country, and in many parts of the world. They were faithful members of the Northern Twisters, and the Sand Dollars.
Phyllis and Tom retired to Parksville in 1990, where they built their dream home. They spent many happy years there before Tom’s health required him to move into The Gardens at Qualicum Beach, where Phyllis later joined him. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary there, last August.
Tom was a good and kind man, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He had an unforgettable sense of humour and we all will miss him very dearly. The family is forever grateful for the exceptional care and attention that Tom received during his time in The Gardens.
A service to remember Tom will be held at St Columbia Presbyterian Church, 921 Wembley Street, Parksville, on Tuesday, Feb 16th at 2:00. A reception in the church hall will follow.