June 27, 1945 – February 13, 2012
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tom Stobart on February 13, 2012. Tom passed away with his family by his side at Royal Jubilee Hospital after a courageous, hard fought battle with multiple myeloma. Tom was born in Vancouver on June 27, 1945 and grew up on the East Side. He had a great love for sports, most notably football and rugby. Tom began his love affair with rugby at Sir Charles Tupper High School. When he moved from Vancouver to Victoria in 1973 to open the first Windsor Plywood franchise in Victoria, he brought his love of the game with him. He was very active with the Castaway Wanderers as a player and celebrated their journey to the Island Championships. When Tom retired from rugby he became a coach and mentor to many young athletes. His love for coaching equally extended to both the BC Summer Games and as a Selector for Rugby Canada’s Under 19 Junior Team. To know Tom was to love him. There wasn’t much that he missed – he lived life with a vigour and energy that was infectious. His sense of humour, quick wit and positive attitude were felt by all who came into contact with him. By far, Tom’s greatest love was the love he shared with his family. He is predeceased by his father, Tom Sr., and survived by his mother Mima, his sister Carol (Bill), his wife of 37 years Susan, his three children, Nicole (Kevin), Buck, Stephanie (Steve), many nieces and nephews, and his canine friends: Monty, Rocky, Maddy and Frank.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to Dr. David Barry, and many close friends for their compassion, sincerity, and endless love and support.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday February 24th at 3:30 pm at Alix Goolden Hall at the Victoria Conservatory of Music – 907 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom’s name will be gratefully accepted to one of his favourite charities: Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (www.canuckplace.org). Condolences may be offered to the family below.
47 Responses
Susan and Family
My deepest sympathy. Tom was such a kind-hearted and loving friend througout my high school years. He could always make me laugh even on my darkest days. I so looked forward to seeing him at Tupper reunions even though I knew he would bring up all the dumb things I did back then. I’d soon be laughing till I cried.
So true, to know Tom was to love him. We will miss him.
Shirley Medd
Hi Sue…..thinking of you and your children as you move through this difficult time. May the love of your family and friends help you as you walk this walk. Just want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Fondly,
Sonia
Sue and family,
Nigel and I would like you to know how very sorry we are to hear of Tom’s passing. Our thoughts have been with you Stephanie, Buck, Nicole and the rest of the family during this difficult time. We both have very fond memories of Tom and as we think of him it is difficult not to smile. An amazing person full of life, enthusisum and an excellent role model to others.
Jane and Nigel Penn
Sue and family,
We were very sad to hear about Tom and we are thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
The Oldham Family
Buck + family,
Just want to say that I am thinking of you guys and sending you my love.
One of the greatest and kindest dads and guys that I will ever meet. Still refer back to some of the advice he gave me over 10 yrs ago.
Amazing man. I’m lucky to have met him.
much love to all of the Stobart family.
Gavin
Susan
I was so sad to open the paper this morning and learn of Tom’s passing. It has been a long time since we have been in each other’s company but know That Tom was a wonderful, father and husband. Please remember us to the rest of your family. Our thoughts are with you.
Michael and Janet Hicks
Uncle Alex
Hi Sue, I just wanted to pass on my condolences. I know Tom was a loving husband to you, a great father to your children, and so much more to so many. Shari and I simply want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. Jim
My condolences to the whole Stobart Family. Tom was an amazing man, coach and mentor. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Such a good man, and coach. Had that balance between a keen sense of competition and an earnest sense of fair play. I’m sure that has been impressed on everyone he coached.
Sue, Nicole, Buck and Steph, along with the rest of the Sobart family and extended family. We were saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. What a great guy, role model and very much a man’s man. Lot’s of laughs at the lake!!
Mike and Cathy, Nicole and Matthew