Thomas David O'Connor

Tom (Thomas) David O'Connor, age 71, known affectionately by many as 'TomO', passed away suddenly on March 30, 2025. Though he was born on October 9th, 1953, in Dublin, Ireland, Tom moved to Arklow, Ireland, shortly after, and that is where he was raised and called 'home' if you ever asked him. His life was marked by profound devotion to his family, a tireless work ethic, a deep connection to the outdoors, and a soul that still belonged to Éire.

Tom spent his early years in Ireland, first attending boarding school at St. Peter's in Wexford. He later continued his education, graduating from the Christian Brothers in Arklow, before beginning his Industrial Electrician Apprenticeship at the Copper Mines in Avoca in 1971.

Upon completion, he embarked on a path that would lead him across the Atlantic to Canada on a work visa, up North to Yellowknife, working in the mines. He eventually joined his sister Margaret in Winnipeg, where he would meet the love of his life at the Irish Association of Manitoba in 1980.

Both originally here on work visas, Tom was homesick, and while visiting him in Ireland, he proposed to Kiera at Dublin Airport! After becoming engaged, they both returned to Ireland for a short few years, were married, and had two daughters before emigrating back to Canada, this time to BC, for the final time in 1986.

While his children were young, Tom worked diligently and attended night school to upgrade his education. His dedication to his studies allowed him to earn certifications in both the Elevator and Escalator trades, in addition to his prior Industrial Electrician ticket, which he had obtained in Carlow, County Carlow, Ireland.

In 1990, he began what would become a long and esteemed career as an Elevator and Escalator mechanic with SkyTrain. More than a job, it became part of who he was, and he loved it so very much and was grateful for the career and opportunities it provided for his family throughout the years. Though he occasionally dabbled with the idea of retirement, Tom’s passion for his work—and the camaraderie he shared with his coworkers—always drew him back. His colleagues and many apprentices he trained through the years became like family to him, and the joy he found in his profession was unmistakable.

Moving to Chilliwack, BC, in 2012 was one of the happiest decisions Tom and Kiera ever made. He loved being surrounded by all the mountains, lakes, and stunning views. He often remarked how lucky he was to have found the perfect house for them, surrounded by the best neighbours, who quickly became best friends.

The outdoors always called to Tom. Whether camping, hiking, building campfires along Chilliwack Lake Road, long trips in the RV, or relaxing beside the Vedder River on the Rotary Trail, nature brought his soul peace like nothing else—except perhaps going to Timmies.

Though he enjoyed working, spending time with friends, and being outdoors, Tom's greatest joy was being a father and grandfather. He treasured every moment with his children and was overjoyed to become a Grandad. Harlow and Violet quickly became the light of his life.

Tom was a gentle giant—an intelligent soul with a kind twinkle in his eye, whose quick wit could light up any room. His fierce love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life. There is nothing he wouldn't do for them.

He is survived by his beloved wife Kiera, daughters Deirdre and Tara and son-in-law Erik, and his greatest treasures, his grandchildren Harlow and Violet.

His siblings, Cyril (Miz), Margaret (John), Georgina (Dave), Cathy (John), Martina (Jimmy), and brother-in-law Fred (Monica); Uncle Sean and Aunt Lillie, also mourn his passing, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who held him dear.

He was preceded in death by his father, George; his mother, Margaret (Peg); and his cherished baby sister, Monica.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, a charity that he supported for many years through Light the Night. We have set up a private donation link in his honour:

https://secure.llscanada.org/site/TR/CYO/General?px=1816468&pg=personal&fr_id=1520

Tom's larger-than-life presence, warmth, and humour touched everyone who knew him. His love for family, friends, and the simple joys in life will always be remembered. May Tom’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him, and may his soul rest peacefully in the green fields of home. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.