Thomas George Heppell, B.Ed., M.Ed., died on January 13, 2011 at home in Victoria with his family by his side. He was a native Victorian, born on January 6, 1931. Predeceased by his brother, Mike (Mary) and sister, Mary (Clarence) Tayler; Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Lois; children, Janice (Klaus) Vogel, Robin (Cindy Miklic), & Patrice (Fred) Patterson; grandchildren, Lorenz, Victoria, Haleigh, Troy & Faith; and many relatives in Victoria, Ontario, and England. He will also be missed by his many close friends and former students.
Tom was a teacher in Greater Victoria for 25 years and continued to teach (and learn) even up to his final days.
His favourite hobbies included fishing, telling stories, socializing with old and new friends, reading history books, working in his garden, and traveling – although Victoria was his paradise. Tom will be especially remembered for his love of his dogs, but above all – for his love of his family.
Visitation
Family and friends may pay their respects at McCall Bros. Floral Chapel, Monday, January 24, 2011 from 7 to 8 pm.
Funeral Service
Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 11:00 am at McCall Bros. Floral Chapel, Johnson and Vancouver Streets. Interment at Royal Oak Burial Park.
Donations
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s name to the Greater Victoria Retired Teachers, Scholarship Foundation, ℅ Brian Tetlow, 81 High Street, Victoria, BC V8Z 5C8.
Condolences for the family may be offered at
www.McCallBros.com
Victoria, BC
Audio Recording of Funeral Service
Audio Recording of Tom Heppell’s Funeral Service – MP3
Tom Heppell Video Tribute
Tom Heppell Video Tribute – MP4
Memorial Folder for Tom Heppell
Click on the image to download Folder.
82 Responses
Dear Lois and Family , so sorry to hear of Tom’s Death. My condolences to all of you, It was nice you all had some time together for his 80th. sincerly Maureen
To Lois and family, my heart aches for you in this time of loss. Tom was very proud of his family, and spoke recently of falling in love with you, Lois, at first sight. I deeply miss my friend and mentor. Annette
To Lois, Janice, Patrice, Rob and family. I feel your sadness at this time very much. An important thing Tom has left us are so many happy memories. No one can take them away.That forty pound salmon,and jam from Lois’ kitchen and Tom’ s garden’ just two of many. My sincere condolences. Malcolm
Dear Heppell family: Lois, Janice, Rob & Patrice,
I am very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing, and of your loss. I have many fond memories of Tom. A tribute to Tom is the strong and wonderful family he left behind !
Sincerely,
John vanCuylenborg
Hi Patrice and family,
I was so sad to hear of your fathers passing. My thoughts are with you at this time
Julie Cheston
We’ll miss you, Mr. Heppell. You were a great influence on our boys’ lives and contributed to making many happy memories of Uplands Elementary in the ’80s.
(And I liked talking ‘dogs’ with you!)
Liz Zacks, mother of Gavin and Alistair.
Lois, Janice, Robin, Patrice and family… please accept our sincere condolences. Although it has been awhile since we have seen you, we both remember Tom with the fondest of memories, and are truly sorry to hear of his passing. For many years Lois was my “second” Mom, and I have not forgotten your kindness during the passing of my Mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Dad and I are both honoured to have known Tom and to have been able to share some of our lives with him. We will miss him.
Tara Parkes (nee Frankland), and Bill Frankland
Janice, I have fond memories of hanging out on Hobbs St. back in our university days. I remember sitting in the kitchen listening to your dad’s wonderful stories. Both your parents have always made me feel so very welcome. My love to all of you!
Our heartfelt sympathies to the family of Tom; who was a fine educator, historian, fisherman extraordinaire, and best friend. His spirit and enthusiasm we will dearly miss. We have fond memories of the times we spent with Tom and we share in your sorrow.
Debbie (Draper) and Murray Metherall
To Rob and family. Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your father. Cherish your many wonderful memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Isobel Francis