Thomas William Balcarras

BALCARRAS, Thomas (Tom) William - at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, passed away suddenly in the early morning on Sunday August 30, 2026 in his 75th year surrounded by his children and loved ones in his final moments.

Tom was born in Hamilton, ON June 25, 1951. The middle son of John (Jack) and Hazel Balcarras, he grew up in North York (Willowdale) alongside his brothers John and Alan. With their parents being educators, the family spent many summers travelling, spending enriching time together and creating fond memories. Tom was grateful to have had kind, exemplary parents with strong values that would aid in shaping the esteemed man he became. Growing up, Tom enjoyed playing fast pitch softball as a catcher with teammates that would become lifelong friends. He had a strong passion for hockey, later playing Junior B with the North York Rangers, even sacrificing many teeth for the love of the game. He attended R J Lang Elementary and Middle school where he would meet Diane Kato who would later become his wife, then graduating from Northview Heights Secondary School.

After high school Tom and Diane continued their courtship while Tom worked as a carpenter. The couple were married on April 27, 1974 and continued making memories including trips to Hawaii and sharing holidays with family. Eventually they decided to lay roots in Ajax, ON and purchased a home together where they would welcome and raise their children, Sean and Kristen. Tom was a devoted husband and father who always put his family first whether it was racing home from work to celebrate birthdays, attend his children’s sporting events, teaching them life skills, coaching hockey and baseball teams and providing lifelong memories including vacations in Florida or special weekend trips away.

His passion for carpentry over the years propelled him into working long days in construction followed by taking evening courses at the University of Toronto to become a professor in the same field. Tom began his career at George Brown College in 1979 where he taught a wide variety of classes in the carpentry and construction fields. He quickly became a well-respected professor and valued member of faculty, creating long-lasting friendships and bonds. He was always willing to listen to a student’s or colleague’s problems or struggles, and he more than reciprocated with words of wisdom, sound advice and probably a somewhat corny joke - just to put a smile on their face. Tom would then be promoted to Coordinator and Professor of the Building Renovation and Restoration program where he would continue working until his wife, Diane, was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Tom was a steadfast and unwavering husband who attended to his wife’s every need and without hesitation paused his career to care for her until her death in 2021.The college was a second home to Tom, always excited about his work, he enthusiastically stepped back into his role as Professor after a brief retirement where he intended to continue teaching for years to come.

In 2024, he suffered a massive heart attack while at the college but thanks to the quick actions of the amazing staff, like his good friend Basilia Aranha, students, and EMS he was able to get to Toronto General Hospital where they not only saved his life but returned him back to his old self after several weeks of recovery. While in the hospital he was so concerned that he would never teach again, but his family knew different. And sure enough, after not too long, the unstoppable force that was Tom Balcarras, returned to the place and the work that he loved. Tom had the pleasure and was honoured to have spent several decades in a fulfilling career that brought him so much joy. His absence will be felt by many.

Tom spent many of his “retired” days doing yard work, watching the Jays and the Leafs (sadly mostly lose), meeting up with old baseball buddies and enjoying time with his family. A selfless and genuinely caring man whose kindness is unmatched, he would often sacrifice his time and energy to help whoever needed him while making sure others knew that there was nothing else he’d rather be doing. He would happily lend his ear and assist his family with their own projects and offer sound advice. Tom’s other favorite pastime was watching his two grandchildren grow up. Whether it was watching Taylor excel at baseball, seeing Breanna light up a recital stage or cherished family dinners with all the ‘kids’, his family truly meant the most to him in this life. Forever doting on his children and being a constant rock for Kristen and Sean (Nicole, Taylor and Breanna), his absence in their lives leaves a massive heartbreaking hole.

Predeceased by his parents Jack and Hazel Balcarras and his wife Diane of 47 years, Tom is survived by his beloved children Kristen and Sean, daughter-in-law Nicole and his granddaughters Taylor and Breanna who treasured and adored him. Further survived by his brothers, John (Nancy) and Alan (Dianne), his sisters-in-law, Kathy, Laura (Andrew predeceased) and Vicki (Leon), several nieces and nephews, and countless family and friends.

Tom leaves behind an exceptional and remarkable legacy. His wisdom, goodwill, gentleness and unconditional love will forever guide and inspire his loved ones.

Cremation has taken place and in accordance to Tom’s wishes, a private service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Toronto General Hospital.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die; The love they gave, the lives they touched, nearby. A beautiful soul, whose memory stays bright, Guiding our steps like a soft steady light.” - adapted by Thomas Campbell