Thomas "Tam" John McEwen Ph.D.

Thomas John (Tam) McEwen, Ph.D. Peacefully, at Pinecrest Home for the Aged in Kenora, Ontario, on May 6, 2019 aged 76. Tam was born and raised in Winnipeg - and capped a distinguished career in Canada’s agri-food industry in Portage la Prairie - but he lived his final years in Kenora, in the Sunset Country he knew and loved so well. Anyone who ever got to know him (as business colleague, Rotary Club or United Church volunteer, or loyal friend) will know why he will be so dearly missed by so many. Whether lending a tune or tending a loon, the music of Tam’s gentle soul was profoundly uplifting. While many who knew him only in his prime (as Manitoba doubles squash champ, Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology president, go-to Rotary Cabaret soloist, or tireless soccer dad) would be shocked and saddened by the cumulative effects of age-associated memory loss and dementia, none would be at all surprised by how bravely Tam battled, nor by how graciously he carried himself in defeat. Predeceased by father, Sanger and mother, Peg, Tam lives on in the memories of loving and devoted surviving kin, his wife of over 50 years, Lindsay, sons Brock (Sandra), Fraser (Leo), Geordie (Val) and Duncan (Jessi), grandchildren Katlaina, Mason, Rheanna, Cadham, Oliver, Holly, Fenton, Lachlan, Elle, and Anders, brothers Jamie (Linda) and Rob (Rita), and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. The family wishes to thank Pinecrest staff and Kenora Palliative Care volunteers for their wonderful care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations are warmly welcomed. Suggestions from the family include: Trinity United Church (Portage la Prairie), Knox United Church (Kenora), and Alzheimer Society Canada. Arrangements are with Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre. A Memorial Service will be held at Knox United Church in Kenora on Tuesday, May 21 at 2pm, and a private interment ceremony and celebration is planned for June 8/9 at Hemlock Island - the rustic paradise that will forever stand in serene tribute to the inspiration and perspiration of our quiet champion. Online condolences may be made at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com.