1923-2006
“Oh! I have slipped the surly
bonds of earth
And danced the skies on
laughter-silvered wings;….
And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untresspassed
sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the
face of God.”
(from High Flight,
Pilot Officer Gillespie Magee Jr.)
Tom recently made his transition from this life to the next, in Australia, where a service is being held to celebrate his life.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and mentor to many, Tom leaves a legacy of love and wisdom in the many lives he touched.
As a young boy, in Saskatoon, Tom dreamed of becoming a pilot.
He served in a Canadian squadron of the RAF in WW II, in India, as the captain of a Liberator.
As a pilot for Canadian Pacific Airlines, Tom flew on the company’s early routes, eventually serving as Chief Pilot, and playing a role in the development of the Canadian Airline Pilots’ Association.
On his ordination as a United Church Minister, he originated the Aviation Interfaith Ministry at the Vancouver Airport, becoming its first chaplain.
In his retirement years, Tom enjoyed the cheerful company of many, being a quiet but friendly and interesting man with a wealth of stories and gentle humor to share.
Always a gentleman, Tom inspired his family and friends by his strong spirit which moved him to celebrate life, and never give up under challenging circumstances.
We celebrate his life and connect with his spirit still.
Those who wish to join in honoring Tom’s memory are invited to make a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of their choice, and to remember him in their own way.