We are saddened to announce the sudden passing of Tom Collett on October 30, 2019.
He will be greatly missed by his wife (Verna), daughters (Donna and Wendy), grandsons (Kieran and Hayden), sister and brother-in-law (Darlene and Bob), and by his many friends. There will be a huge gap in our lives without the unconditional love and support that he quietly and loyally provided.
Tom was kind, cheerful, and positive. He loved going for coffee, playing crib, and reminiscing with friends.
You can’t speak of Tom without mentioning sports! He was a proud Vic High grad (1959) and an excellent all-round athlete excelling in track and field, basketball [Totems], soccer, and lacrosse [Shamrocks]. Tom was a keen competitor whose skills were balanced with good sportsmanship and love of the game.
After his retirement from Canada Safeway, he took up golf and skiing. He loved to cheer for local teams, as well as watching any and all sports on TV. (Yes, he had all the sports channels!) Of course, his favourite sport stars were his daughters and his grandsons.
Tom was happiest when hosting a dinner or party in the home he loved. (He found something to celebrate every season!) He loved to travel and joyfully recalled car trips, bus tours, and river cruises.
We have been very fortunate to have Tom’s presence in our lives and will remember him with love and gratitude. He was a naturally generous and caring soul who was able to find happiness in the everyday details of ordinary life.
To honour Tom, we encourage you to take a moment to appreciate something beautiful in the world today. Give someone you love a hug, and tell loved ones how much you care. “Ordinary life” is not so ordinary after all but something special to be treasured.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, November 9, 2019 in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC with a reception to follow.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
20 Responses
Verna, Donna, Wendy and boys. Our sincerest condolences to you all. Tom was an amazing person and will always live on through the hearts of those that love him. He has touched many lives and will not be forgotten. We will cherish all of our wonderful memories of Tom, and the kind person he always was. Our hearts go out to your family.
Sending you our love, Chelsea & Richard
Verna, Donna, Wendy and family,
Tom was such a wonderful person. I remember him as one of the Victoria High School sports heroes. He was one of the most cheerful and positive people I have ever met. My heart hurts for your loss.
We were so saddened to hear of Tom’s passing.
He was a lovely man and we’ve joyed many of the fun times we spent at your home.
Lots of love is being sent to you Verna and your family.
Love Sue and Dave
Donna, Wendy and Verna,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad’s (husband’s) passing. He will leave a big hole, but you have many special memories to treasure! My condolences to you all.
I am so sorry for you loss, Verna, Donna, and Wendy. Tom was such a kind and gentle soul with a generous spirit and a heart-warming smile. He touched so many lives and will be remembered, always, with tremendous affection.
He will be missed. We enjoyed visiting and chatting with him at many lacrosse and hockey games over the years! He was so proud of his girls and especially his grandsons. Our condolences on your loss. Thinking of you.
What lovely words and memories of Tom! He is always Tom Terrific! Love to you all from Heather Cornall
Dear Verna, Donna, & Wendy,
We are thinking of you & of dear Tom…& we miss him already. What a kind & gentle person he was, always ready with a smile & a chuckle. I feel privileged to have had Tom in my life over the years..& decades actually! He left this world loved, & he so loved you all, his wonderful family. Sending you much love & comfort at this time…
Love Jenny, & Bobby, & Naiya xoxo
I am very sorry for your loss. The pain of losing a great presence in your lives is so difficult. I wish you peace in the quietest moments you have, and calm when the waves of sadness arise. To know you have been loved by a wonderful man is gift to carry with you forever.
Verna, Donna, Wendy and boys,
I’m so, so very sorry for your loss. Tom was truly a great guy. Warm, loyal and fun! I am sending you hugs and love and will definitely honour Tom with a special act of kindness today. xo Shawn