Thomas Roy Wenger

Tom held many happy memories of growing up in Inglewood and east Calgary. He was one of seventeen cousins who lived on the Wenger block, where his older cousins always made sure to include him—whether on the field or on the rink. From an early age, Tom excelled at anything sports-related. He played and caddied at the Inglewood Golf Course and worked at the old driving range. Tom was also a member of the old CR Golf Club, Curling Club and of course, Storey Creek Golf Club.

He had a particular love for track and field, made the city gymnastics team, and later advanced to high diving with the Happy Valley Diving Club in Calgary.

Tom joined the Canadian Navy, where he continued to pursue his passion for sports while stationed at Cornwallis. During this time, he was part of a gymnastics team that toured across Canada. In 1969, Tom married Bonnie and soon after enrolled at Highline College in Seattle to complete an undersea technician program. His class was selected to serve as the top-side support team for a scientific program run by General Electric and the Department of the Interior of the U.S.A., which took them to St. Johns, Virgin Islands—an experience that was likely the highlight of his underwater career.

After college, Tom found work in Louisiana on the oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. He eventually settled in Campbell River, B.C., where he purchased a precast concrete business and supplied the city of Campbell River and the North Island with concrete products. This venture allowed Tom and Bonnie to raise their two sons, Stephen and Scott, of whom he was immensely proud. Tom coached their baseball and hockey teams, cherishing the opportunity to spend more time with them and their friends.

Tom is survived by his wife, Bonnie, his sons, grandchildren, and his sister Gail (David) of Seattle. He is predeceased by his parents Margaret and Bob.

Tom’s one regret was not keeping in closer touch with family and friends. He was later blessed with two granddaughters, Brooke and Summer, and followed their achievements in school and swimming with great pride. He was a devoted father and Grampa who loved his family dearly.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday.”

-Author Unknown