Thomas James McGuire

If there was ever a person who wanted to heal all the wrongs in the world, it was Thomas James McGuire. Tom was a devoted Catholic and an idealist who sought to bring harmony to those around him. He was a deep thinker and loved a great conversation. Always a reliable source when it came to history, the news or politics, Tom had strong personal convictions and wasn't afraid to live by them. This was especially evident in his stories of life in Ottawa or traveling through the southern United States in the 1960's. Even in his last days, he voiced concern for those unable to speak for themselves. It was as if he often carried the weight of the world on his shoulders. Despite his outer strengths, beliefs and gentle soul, Tom struggled with alcohol in his younger years. Perhaps it was a way to deal with what he saw as his shortcomings or his inability to fix the world. We'll never know for sure. He was as much a private man as he was a loving and kind man. Tom was a dreamer with the best of intentions. His thirst for knowledge often kept him on the cutting edge as he introduced his family to the first video game Pong and music sharing with Napster. He knew his way around a computer and devised spreadsheets for budgeting and keeping

'his files" organized. His "reasons for living", as he once wrote, came in the form of his wife and his three daughters. Family was everything to him and his greatest desire in life was to care for his family and be "his own person, doing his own thing, in his own time". This philosophy was a continual driving force in his life, and it showed by the love, time and concern he had for others.

      Thomas was born on February 12, 1937 at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia. His parents were Gerald and Elizabeth McGuire. With his parents roots stemming from Napanee, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan, he was raised in Winnipeg, Toronto, Sault Ste. Marie and St. Joseph Island. As a youngster, he demonstrated an excellent vocabulary and command of language. He was a compassionate person, a quality that he would carry with him throughout his life. Even at a young age, Tom was sensitive to his parents’ moods and worked hard to please them and live up to their expectations.

      Throughout his life, Tom showed a remarkable ability to mend relationships. This was true even with his siblings. Thomas was caring, diplomatic and tolerant of the feelings of those around him. He was raised with three siblings; his sister Gratia, brother Gerry and younger sister Laura. Thomas was constantly involved in activities with his brothers and sisters. He and his siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

      As a young boy, Tom lived a childhood filled with fantasy. He was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favourites was Scottie Kilty. They were best of friends. His family was rounded out in his younger years by his pony Mickey, family Irish Setters Kelly & Darby, and later in life by dogs Ginger and Reeses with her litter of 8 chocolate lab puppies. Tom was a collector of many things. From stamps and coins to tools and antiques he appreciated and saw beauty in everything around him.

      High school was a time for Tom to seek out knowledge. He enjoyed learning and had a natural interest in gathering information and for playing football. Thomas had a flair for the poetic and was very expressive and articulate, especially when it came to his writing. This was evident later in life when every card received contained his beautifully scripted sentiments. He graduated from Loretto High School, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan in 1956 (the only Catholic High School in the area at the time). His favourite class in high school was history and he was a member of the Sodality Group as well; a group where Tom's big blues would catch the eye of a young Louise Belanger. Louise even recalls stating " I'd like to meet that guy some day" and 10 years later it came to be. Thomas's love of learning carried over to his college years. Although that official degree landed just out of reach, he applied himself scholastically and developed a particular interest in the humanities. He attended St. Mike's in Toronto, a traditionally Irish Catholic College which highlighted his proud Irish and Catholic heritage. While attending, Tom enjoyed playing varsity football and as a sentimental person would forever miss his college jacket, whereabouts unknown.

Blessed with a strong sense of integrity, Thomas was as loyal and committed in his work as he was in the rest of his life. In his later years, Tom found purpose being self employed, primarily offering bookkeeping and tax services along with property management. In his younger years Tom enjoyed time as a DJ with CJIC in Sault Ste. Marie and as a life guard in Nassau, Bahamas. He was employed for several years in finance and worked for various companies; Federal Business Development Bank (FBDB), General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) and UAC to name a few. Although his job may have placed him in some uncomfortable situations, he always dealt with his clients with compassion and tolerance. He once accepted payment in the form of an Irish Setter when a client could not repay an owing loan. He managed the Elizabeth Wilcox building at 510 Queen Street East and GA McGuire Antiques for a number of years seeking to keep the building in the best condition possible. Whether it was polishing the brass plates on the front doors, enhancing the wood finish or providing a fresh coat of paint, Tom took great pride in dealing with the building and all the tenants who occupied it over the years.       

Thomas was an authentic and devoted friend. He was a tranquil person, with an easygoing and open-minded attitude towards life. He presented a pleasant face to the outside world and sought to achieve harmony with everyone. While growing up, some of his best friends were his brother Gerry, Larry Young and Ab McKinley. Later in life, he became friends with Ken and Paula Smith and Dave and Debbie Bumbaco.

The desire for romance was always present in Thomas's life. He succeeded in solidifying it on February 11, 1966, when Thomas exchanged wedding vows with Mary Anne Louise Belanger at Precious Blood Cathedral in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Thomas cared passionately for Louise. His deep loyalty and a strong commitment to his vows brought a sense of completeness to their marriage. Although there was much travel in the earlier years of their marriage, family life in Sault Ste. Marie centered around 235 Brown Street, 89 Robin Street and the 100 year old 112 Kohler Street. Summers saw times spent at Pointe Des Chenes and St. Joesph Island taking in the fresh air, water and time with family and friends.

Thomas was a gentle person who held deep feelings for his children. He enjoyed having fun with his kids and was always fiercely protective of them. Thomas showed great empathy in his willingness to give every family member a voice in family decisions. He was blessed with three girls, Kathleen, Tracy and Mary, two sons-in-law, Corey and Dave and two grandchildren, Tyler and Tristan. Throughout their lives Tom proudly gathered newspaper clippings and printed online articles or photos to mark accomplishments to be remembered. He shared a heart of gold when it came to his children and grandchildren.

      Thomas enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various "hobbies". In his younger years, he and Louise were members of a bowling league and also tried a hand at golf, but his favourite past time was watching television. Although conservative with his political views he never labelled himself a staunch supporter of any particular party. When election time came, he diligently prepared himself to vote for the best candidate for the job. To support his decisions he kept up on the news of the day, knew the comings and goings of the house of commons and found interest in watching the chamber proceedings. His favourite U. S. President was John F. Kennedy (an Irish, Catholic Democrat), yet he enjoyed listening to Rush Limbaugh and watching Fox News (Conservative based). Besides watching the news and politics Tom also enjoyed watching a good war or cowboy movie with John Wayne being a favourite. Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, Dateline and Judge Judy served as nightly entertainment. Tom also enjoyed watching sports and liked following his favourite teams whenever he got the chance to do so. A Washington Redskins fan, he and Louise were swayed to route for the Philadelphia Eagles once an enthusiastic son-in-law Corey came along. They also loved watching the Blue Jays and Raptors games together. Other hobbies Tom enjoyed included tracing his family tree, by which he proudly established roots to the Mayflower voyage, always cut throat games of cards with his loving wife Louise and others who dared join them. He could also be found tending to his endless treasure trove of files. The importance he placed on being organized with his files was learned in his younger years and he could fondly be remembered heading into work in his navy blue over coat with favourite briefcase in hand. Thomas was also a lover of music. He was happiest enjoying the sounds of Johnny Cash, Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Beach Boys and Elvis Presley to name a few of his favourites. He was content to enjoy his hobbies alone, but he was also willing to share his interests with others.

Thomas enjoyed opportunities to travel which later in life mainly arose from his daughters involvement in Drum Corps or jobs that landed them in different cities throughout Canada and the U.S. He loved a road trip, listening to AM talk radio while driving and taking in all the history of the cities he visited. Some favourite destinations included St. Petersburg, Florida (honeymoon); Kansas City, Missouri (Tracy DCI); Peggy's Cove and Halifax, Nova Scotia (Kathleen); Corpus Christie, Texas (Kathleen) and Washington D.C. (Mary). He and Louise also made trips to Florida to visit with Gerry and Kaye and to the horse tracks of Kentucky with Ken and Paula.

      Thomas was a strong defender of his faith and a member of Precious Blood Cathedral. He was an eternal idealist, and his deep concern for others made him a valuable asset to the clubs and organizations to which he belonged throughout his life. Thomas was passionate in his beliefs and being a very skilled communicator, he could really come alive when involved in a project. Throughout his later years, Thomas was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and served as Knights Treasurer for a time. Whether he was ushering at weekly Mass or spending countless hours selling tickets in the mall he always did so with a smile. Being a selfless person, Thomas did not seek approval from his peers, but he valued the recognition he received for his good deeds. Some of his most prestigious awards included the Knight of the Year in 1991 & the Knights of Columbus Family of the Year award in 2010.

      Though Thomas always appeared to be dreaming of greener pastures, he was accepting of retirement when it finally came in 2012. Long-range planning skills served him well in preparing for the “golden years.” His new life involved relocating to a comfortable apartment with Louise where they enjoyed their nightly television entertainment; Judge Judy and Dateline and spending time on St. Joe's Island tending to Tom's Road and Lou's Lane.

      Thomas passed away on January 24, 2023 at Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Thomas fought multi organ failure. He is survived by his wife Louise, daughters Kathleen, Tracy Smith, Mary Geroux; Sons-in-law Corey Smith and David Geroux; Grandsons Tyler Smith and Tristan Geroux; Brother Gerry McGuire, sister Laura McGuire-Boyer, and many brothers & sisters in law, nieces & nephews. Thomas was laid to rest in Holy Sepluchre Cemetary, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

      Thomas James McGuire was someone who tended to see the world in terms of black and white, Thomas tried to focus on the good he saw, knowing that there were times he would have to compromise. He was selfless and deeply committed to all things positive and good. Thomas was a person who would keep his eye on yesterday and tomorrow, and constantly held onto his dreams. It was his exceptional storytelling that became Thomas's trademark quality for all who knew him, and it was one of the many reasons why all who knew him loved Thomas James McGuire.

OBITUARY

McGUIRE, Thomas James - In his 86th year, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 with loving family by his side.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Beloved husband, best friend and soulmate to Louise (nee Belanger) for 57 years. Loving father of Kathleen McGuire, Tracy Smith (Corey), Mary Geroux (David). Proud Papa of Tyler Smith (Claire) and Tristan Geroux. Thomas is now reunited with his parents Gerald and Elizabeth "Betty" McGuire. Cherished brother of the late Gratia Ann Husseini (Waleed), Gerald McGuire (Kaye), and Laura McGuire-Boyer. Son-in-law of the late Caroline (late Harold McGrayne) and the late Ernest Belanger. Dear brother-in-law of the late John Belanger (Doris), late David Belanger (Doris), Philip Belanger (Maxine), Ernest Belanger, late Harold Jr. McGrayne (Vicky), Phillina Kohlbacher (late Herman), Leslie McGrayne (Joanne), Veronica Lukkarila (Simo), and Colleen Hocking (Tony). Special friend to Larry Young, Ab McKinley, Ken and Paula Smith, and Rick and Carole Geroux. Affectionately, "Uncle Tom" to his many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many cousins, extended family and dear friends in both Canada and the U.S.

Born February 12th, 1937 in Vancouver, B.C. our dad was a man of many words. With great ease, he could transform one word or thought into a spirited tale. Whether it was the news of today or stories of yesteryear, lucky listeners were often led down a winding road of wit and wonder, embellished with his charm and always infused with pearls of wisdom.

Our dad was also a man of many miles. In his younger years he worked in various roles in finance which allowed him to relocate throughout Ontario. In fact, all of us girls were born in different cities, but the Sault is where he and our mom eventually settled to raise us and assist his aging parents in managing “The Building” at 510 Queen Street East.

Whether it was driving the bus as a Bandette dad, or driving his Grand Caravan to Halifax, Texas or anywhere in between, his love, devotion and support of his daughters “The McGuire Sisters” knew no bounds.

His favourite place to spend time was at Sailor’s Encampment on St. Joseph Island, where he cherished time with family and tended to his property down “Tom’s Road”.

A devout Catholic, he served many years with the Knights of Columbus and was honoured to receive a Family of the Year Award. Family was everything to him, his “reasons for living”.

Dad was a kind and gentle soul and will fondly be remembered by all family and friends for his genuine care and concern for others. Rest in Peace, Dad.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Valerie for special care and attention shown to our father in his final days.

Friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522) on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 between 9:00 am - 10:30 am. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 am at Precious Blood Cathedral (778 Queen St. East) with Rev. Jeff Shannon officiating. Tom will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. A reception will follow at The Gathering Place at Precious Blood Cathedral.

Memorial contributions (payable by cheque or online) to Precious Blood Cathedral or Sick Kids would be greatly appreciated. Please share fond memories and expressions of sympathy at www.arthurfuneralhome.com as this will become a keepsake for the McGuire family.

FORTITUDE

Dear JESUS,

Lay your Wounded Hand upon my weary head,

and teach me to have courage in the paths that I must tread.

Bless me, and bless those whom I love, and give us grace to see

These crosses bravely borne by us, will keep us close to Thee.

And if at times a shadow falls in unexpected ways,

Please put Your gentle Hand in mine and guide me through the days.

So bless my people, one and all, with Thy protecting grace,

And impart to them Thy Wisdom ere they meet Thee face to face.

First Eulogy given by Brother, Gerry McGuire

MY BROTHER TOM

Tom was oldest of the 4 McGuire children. He was followed by Gratia, Gerry and then Laura. He was the big brother who was always there for us.

My sisters would affirm my comments and their love for him. How do I capture in the 40 minutes I have, the essence of Tom. I will try by showing the attributes that led to the love and admiration all his family and extended family had for him.

I would describe him as kind, loving and supportive.

When I was around 11 I developed Rheumatic fever. I could not walk. I put on an enormous amount weight. Tom would say that’s ok and he’d literally carry me to the car, the doctor’s office or where ever I needed to go. When I was at boarding school in North Bay, Tom worked in Sudbury. He would call every couple of weeks and come down to take me out for dinner and a visit. On the night of my first date with Kaye, my wife and foundation, he made sure I had a car.

For my parents he became the go to for their personal and financial affairs. Later, after they were gone, he became the center post of the family.

Whether it was Laura, Gratia or myself he was there to help with taxes, legal matters or just plain explanations of our family history.

When he met Louise he fell head over heels in love -- for the rest of his life.They had three wonderful daughters: Kathleen, Tracy and Mary. Tom’s family was his pride and joy. I asked each of the daughters to describe him with an adjective: one said sincere, one said generous and one said supportive.

Their hopes and aspirations were Tom’s .Always ,as he grew older, they were the light of his life. Through them he gained two wonderful sons in Corey and David and two outstanding grandsons in Tyler and Tristan.

The most important person in his life was Louise. She was his foundation, his saviour, his confidant, and his greatest supporter.

I asked Louise for an adjective to describe Tom. She said: “compassionate, a compassionate man”.

So, in the eyes of those who knew and loved him best he was a kind, loving, supportive, generous and sincere man, all the attributes you would in incorporate in Louise’s description a COMPASSIONATE MAN.

Finally, he was a strong Irish man and a good Knight. Through his faith and the love of family he came to a blessed and peaceful end.

We will all miss him. Thank you for honoring him with your presence. He is at rest.

Second Eulogy given by Grandson, Tyler Smith

PAPA EULOGY - Jan 28, 2023

Everyone gathered here today knew Thomas James McGuire in some capacity, whether as a friend, uncle, brother, cousin, or father. For me, he was my Papa, and I am honoured to speak about what he meant to me.

When I think of one word that encapsulates Papa’s legacy, it’s history. His love for days gone by was infectious. On any given day, you could hear Papa proudly declaring that he was a direct descendant of William Brewster, who, for anyone in here who doesn’t know, led the pilgrimage on the Mayflower in 1620. When I was young, instead of watching cartoons with Papa, we tossed on Centennial, a 12-part VCR historical adventure from 1978. Even when it came to video games, my first exposure at the McGuire household came in the form of the Oregon Trail, where one had to traverse the rugged terrain of the 19th century United States, battling hunger and typhoid fever along the way. Whether it was the antique lamps or the persian rugs, or the stamp or coin collections, Papa subtly highlighted the history around me, and everyone he met.

St. Joseph’s Island, or for our purposes, just “The Island”, was a place to escape the present and venture into the past. Walking together down “Tom’s Road”, Papa would describe his time as a young boy on the Island, stories of chicken coops, horseback riding, and plenty of Irish setters. I recall driving around the Island in one of the early 2000s iterations of the Burgundy Beast family van. The summer sky was golden with sunset rays, the window rolled down, and I was so, so happy. I don’t remember what we talked about, but it was Papa’s calming voice, filled with love, that gave me true peace that day. It wasn’t about the specifics in his stories, it was that Papa cared enough to recount them.

It’s the little things that I remember most. Papa’s low grumble from the other room if the TV remote wasn’t cooperating. The confident, wry look he would give if he knew he was going to win a game of cards, especially Tom’s Game. His brilliant blue eyes, full of humour and kindness. The way he would tell me he loved me, always accompanied by a “my boy”. Papa’s large frame never felt imposing, always comforting, like a gentle giant softly watching over you. I would often sit on top of his shoulders in his big TV chair and feel like I was on top of the world. And that was what he did, he lifted you up. In his presence, I always felt so supported, so empowered, so loved.

Papa was a man of faith, and I am comforted knowing that he is finally at peace in heaven, and I know that he will forever be looking down on us all, waiting for his chance to share his stories with us again.

Until then,

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face, and the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

* * * * * * * * * *

McGUIRE, Thomas James - In his 86th year, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 with loving family by his side.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Beloved husband, best friend and soulmate to Louise (nee Belanger) for 57 years. Loving father of Kathleen McGuire, Tracy Smith (Corey), Mary Geroux (David). Proud Papa of Tyler Smith (Claire) and Tristan Geroux. Thomas is now reunited with his parents Gerald and Elizabeth "Betty" McGuire. Cherished brother of the late Gratia Ann Husseini (Waleed), Gerald McGuire (Kaye), and Laura McGuire-Boyer. Son-in-law of the late Caroline (late Harold McGrayne) and the late Ernest Belanger. Dear brother-in-law of the late John Belanger (Doris), late David Belanger (Doris), Philip Belanger (Maxine), Ernest Belanger, late Harold Jr. McGrayne (Vicky), Phillina Kohlbacher (late Herman), Leslie McGrayne (Joanne), Veronica Lukkarila (Simo), and Colleen Hocking (Tony). Special friend to Larry Young, Ab McKinley, Ken and Paula Smith, and Rick and Carole Geroux. Affectionately, "Uncle Tom" to his many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many cousins, extended family and dear friends in both Canada and the U.S.

Born February 12th, 1937 in Vancouver, B.C. our dad was a man of many words. With great ease, he could transform one word or thought into a spirited tale. Whether it was the news of today or stories of yesteryear, lucky listeners were often led down a winding road of wit and wonder, embellished with his charm and always infused with pearls of wisdom.

Our dad was also a man of many miles. In his younger years he worked in various roles in finance which allowed him to relocate throughout Ontario. In fact, all of us girls were born in different cities, but the Sault is where he and our mom eventually settled to raise us and assist his aging parents in managing “The Building” at 510 Queen Street East.

Whether it was driving the bus as a Bandette dad, or driving his Grand Caravan to Halifax, Texas or anywhere in between, his love, devotion and support of his daughters “The McGuire Sisters” knew no bounds.

His favourite place to spend time was at Sailor’s Encampment on St. Joseph Island, where he cherished time with family and tended to his property down “Tom’s Road”.

A devout Catholic, he served many years with the Knights of Columbus and was honoured to receive a Family of the Year Award. Family was everything to him, his “reasons for living”.

Dad was a kind and gentle soul and will fondly be remembered by all family and friends for his genuine care and concern for others. Rest in Peace, Dad.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Valerie for special care and attention shown to our father in his final days.

Friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522) on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 between 9:00 am - 10:30 am. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 am at Precious Blood Cathedral (778 Queen St. East) with Rev. Jeff Shannon officiating. Tom will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. A reception will follow at The Gathering Place at Precious Blood Cathedral.

Memorial contributions (payable by cheque or online) to Precious Blood Cathedral or Sick Kids would be greatly appreciated. Please share fond memories and expressions of sympathy at www.arthurfuneralhome.com as this will become a keepsake for the McGuire family.

FORTITUDE

Dear JESUS,

Lay your Wounded Hand upon my weary head,

and teach me to have courage in the paths that I must tread.

Bless me, and bless those whom I love, and give us grace to see

These crosses bravely borne by us, will keep us close to Thee.

And if at times a shadow falls in unexpected ways,

Please put Your gentle Hand in mine and guide me through the days.

So bless my people, one and all, with Thy protecting grace,

And impart to them Thy Wisdom ere they meet Thee face to face.