Thomas Earl Dunphy

August 13, 1946 – March 25, 2011

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Tom on Friday, March 25, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Corinne; son, Jason; two daughters, Tracy (Paul), Shawna (Chris) and four grandchildren, Brayden, Darby, Kessiah and Addison; brother, Jack (Margaret); sisters, Sharon (Jimmy), Cheryl (Dan), as well as many nieces and nephews. Tom was born in Calgary, Alberta and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Calgary. While working with the Alberta Government as a social worker, he was transferred to Edmonton, where he and Corinne raised their three children. In 1991, Tom and Corinne opened Cinema Star Video in Victoria, BC. His excitement in this endeavor transferred to all those around him and it was rare if you walked in and didn’t hear his laugh. He loved and took great pride in the business until his retirement in 2008. Upon retirement, he began a new chapter in his life, travelling with his grandchildren. Disneyland and Maui were a couple of his favorites. He talked endlessly about seeing Ireland and he and Corinne were able to make it happen in 2010. Tom was his children’s and grandchildren’s biggest fan. His smile and infectious laugh brought joy and happiness to all. It made him the loudest in the stands and the most excited at all events, from dance to hockey, soccer to rock gigs, he was always right up front. As the grandkids would say, “How is Jibby ever going to find her glasses?”

A Memorial Service will be held in MCCALL BROS. FLORAL CHAPEL, Johnson & Vancouver Streets, on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the B.C. Friends of Schizophrenia Society Memorial Fund, Victoria Branch. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com

27 Responses

  1. Dear Corrine,

    We were so saddened to read about Tom’s sudden passing. We use to really enjoy going into Cinema Star Video to have a visit with Tom and your little dog, Bailey.
    We are so sorry for your loss, our thoughts are with you and your family.

    Ron & Judi Sallis

  2. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
    MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,CORINNE.
    SINCERELY, EILA.

  3. Dear Corinne,
    We send our love and prayers to you and your family at this sad time. I remember the first time I met Tom – we three had “High Tea” at the Empress Hotel, and I can still see his big shining, smiling face -he was such wonderful company and I could tell you two were just made for each other.
    May you find comfort and strength with the love and support of your family and friends.
    Sincerely with love,
    Billy, Alex and family

  4. My heart is breaking. Tom was a huge part of our life and we both loved him so much. He was always there for us no matter what was going on in his life. He was like a brother to us, and he will be in our hearts forever!!!!.. Opie you were the best. x0x0x0x0x0

  5. So sorry to hear of the suden passing of Tom. He’ll be greatly missed.His bright smile and spontanious laughter made this world a happier place for us all.Our thoughts go out to you and the family at this very difficult time.

  6. It is hard to believe that he is gone. Even in his picture, his cheeky grin is infectious. I will always remember him laughing and living life as he saw fit!

    His legacy is the loving caring people you are surrounded with.

  7. Corinne and the family. I was so saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. He was, indeed, a very happy, special man with always a smile on his face. My thoughts go out to all the family.

  8. Seeing his picture , it still does not seem real. I can see his smile and hear his laugh, what a wonderful thing it was. We were always happy see Tom and Coke. Your children and grandchildren are your legacy and they are great people. We will miss him and it was a pleasure to have known him.

    Michael, Holly, Jack and Alex

  9. His heart smiled out loud every time he laughed, and yours could not help but smile along. What an amazing man. We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives. Our condolences to you Corinne and your wonderful family.

    Charlene, Mark and Family

  10. Tom, miss you so much already. Miss your laugh and the good times together. Have spent alot of time with Corinne, Tracy , Shauna and Jay. Will do all I can to take care of Corinne. Love and miss you always, Ros

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