Tom Willdey

WILLDEY, Thomas (Tom) LCDR, CD, RCN (Ret’d) - May 31,1943 – February 19, 2011. It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected death of LCDR Tom Willdey. He was the loving husband of Juliana Willdey (Turnbull). He was born in Ottawa to the late Mary (Davis) and Jack Willdey. Tom served on the HMC Ships Margaree and Athabascan. His postings included CFB Shelburne, Intelligence at Maritime Command, National Defence Headquarters (Ottawa), Family Support Services (Halifax), Gunnery Range at Osborne Head, and Staff Officer, Cadets. Tom retired after 34 proud years of service where he was a respected leader known for integrity and fairness.

As an active member of the parishes of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Saint Benedict, Tom was a faithful steward who always acted when called upon. Tom truly lived by the motto “ask not what you can do for me, but what I can do for you.” He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 5449. Very community oriented, Tom served as past president of both Maskwa Aquatic Club and Rockingham Heritage Society. He was a dedicated volunteer at Ronald MacDonald House, a charity close to his heart.

For the past fourteen years, Tom was an avid curler at the CFB Curling Club and enjoyed playing with the Metro Curling Masters. Tom loved the outdoors, especially spending time with family at the lake. Each spring he met with friends for a fishing trip in Algonquin Park. He recently went on an adventure to the Yukon, canoeing the Stewart and Yukon Rivers with his son, grandson, and daughter in law.

Tom valued family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Juliana Belle Willdey (Turnbull); children, Karla (David), Katherine (John), and Brian (Stephanie). Papa will be dearly missed by his grandchildren; Willy (The Willster), Elliott (The Ellios), Lila (Niblets), Jack (Buffer), and Sophia (Snippets). He leaves behind two beloved sisters, Maureen Lothian and Patricia Willdey along with many treasured nieces and nephews and wonderful friends.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Wednesday, February 23, in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. Thursday, February 24, in Saint Benedict Parish, 45 Radcliffe Drive. Celebrant of Mass will be Reverend James Mallon. Family flowers only. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to Ronald MacDonald House, 1133 Tower Road, Halifax or a charity of your choice. Please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.