

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved husband, father, papa, brother, uncle and friend. On Thursday, July 2nd, 2026, at the age of 68, Tom passed away while vacationing with his devoted wife and lifelong friends, doing what he loved- making memories with the people who meant the most to him.
Tom is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Lynn, his cherished children Steven (Nicole) and Jennifer (Andre); and his adored grandchildren Michael, Thomas, William, Alex and Emily.
Tom is now reunited with his parents, Gebhard (2015) and Lotte (2025); his brother, Michael (2023) his mother-in-law, Joan (2022); his father-in-law, Merv (2023); and his nephew, Jordan (2020).
Tom will be deeply missed by his sister Sabine; his brother in laws Bob, Bruce (Jacquie) and Brad (Lily); his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and countless friends whose lives were made richer by his kindness, generosity and friendship.
Some people leave an impression wherever they go. Tom left a legacy of kindness, patience, generosity, and unconditional love. He was the Dad everyone wished they had, an incredible husband, and the very best Papa. If you were fortunate enough to know him, you knew there truly was no one else quite like him. As Lynn often said “They broke the mold after they made him”
Tom and Lynn shared 46 wonderful years of marriage building a life centered around family, hard work, laughter, and unwavering love. He often said that his children were “the cake” and his Grandchildren were “the icing on the cake.” Nothing brought him greater pride or joy than being their Papa.
He wasn’t the kind of grandfather who watched from the sidelines. He got down on the floor to play, taught life skills with endless patience, created adventures, and somehow could never say no to his grandchildren, no matter how questionable or adventurous their ideas became. Every moment spent with them was a treasure, whether at home or at his beloved cabin in Gravenhurst, a place that held a special place in his heart.
Tom loved hunting, fishing, the outdoors, and spending time at the cabin, whether surrounded by family or enjoying its peaceful solitude. He was happiest surrounded by the people he loved, with a large 4x4 coffee and a cigarette in hand, planning his next project or helping someone else with theirs.
There truly wasn’t anything Tom couldn’t fix. If something was broken, he was the first person everyone called. His remarkable ability to solve problems was matched only by his incredible patience. He was a quiet thinker who observed more than he spoke, listened without judgement, and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
He was known for his work boots, wool socks and long pants- even on the hottest summer days. It became quite the conversation when years after retiring, he finally traded those familiar work boots for a pair of skechers. It just didn’t seem like Tom, and everyone made sure he knew it.
Tom’s kindness knew no bounds. He would do absolutely anything for anyone without expecting anything in return. He had a special place in his heart for animals, the neighbourhood dogs knew they were welcome to stop by for a treat.
Tom was also famous for never throwing anything away. If you needed a part, a tool, or something you thought no one could possibly still have, Tom probably did. It might have taken him a little while to find it among his mess but somehow, he almost always could.
Although his time with us was far too short, the lessons he taught, the love he gave so freely, and the countless lives he touched will live on forever.
Dad, Papa- you were our safe place, our teacher, our handyman, our quiet strength, and our biggest supporter. Thank you for every lesson, every laugh, every hug, every project, every adventure, and every cup of coffee shared around the table.
We will miss you beyond words, love you forever, and carry your memory in our hearts every single day.
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