I have many, many memories of Uncle Tom, but one stands out as particularly indicative of his generosity, kindness and patience. …And wry sense of humour, which is shared by my dad, and - I believe, their dad.

My Uncle Tom had the dubious honour of accompanying me on my very first airplane ride. My dad had a fear of flying, so I had never been on a plane and when I went to visit Uncle Tom and his family in Niagara Falls, it conveniently worked out that he was returning from a visit to Vancouver at the same time. (Or at least - that’s how I remember it.)

I was very nervous about every little sound, but he answered all my questions patiently and calmly, albeit sometimes with his signature chuckle… So, despite my living with a person who had convinced me that flying was scary, I quite enjoyed my first flight!

He was *always* a calming, reassuring presence. Not to mention that "Johnston" sense of humour! And his (and his family’s) visits were always something I looked forward to with delight.

The smell of a cigar will always bring a smile to my lips… Thanks, Uncle Tom, for everything. ❤️

Rene’ and I wish to express our deepest condolences to Judy, Linda, Karen, and the rest of Tom’s family, on the occasion of his passing. He was a caring husband and father who deeply loved his family. Tom was also a conscientious and effective employee as shown by the increasing responsibility he was given as he progressed through the ranks of Dupont and Occidental. He had a ready smile, a sharp wit and thoroughly enjoyed games and puzzles. I am fortunate that he was a part of my life.

A couple of memories come to mind as I reflect on Tom’s life and my relationship with him. Perhaps most significant is his influence on me in my decision to attend UBC after high school. My parents and Judy wanted me to go to UBC and offered every reason they could muster to convince me. Being a wise and brilliant teenager (not!), I resisted. And then Tom entered the conversation. It wasn’t a long conversation, he simply said he thought it would be smart for me to go to university. That Fall, I enrolled at UBC. To this day I am grateful that I had the benefit of Tom’s influence on this and other matters in my life.

Tom showed charity and goodwill to others. I was visiting Tom and Judy in Dallas where Tom was working at the time. He and I were out driving and came across a disabled car at the side of the road. Many cars drove by without stopping but Tom chose to pull over to see if he could help. An older woman was the driver and she had a flat tire. We got the problem fixed and she offered some money to thank us for helping. Tom graciously declined and said he was simply pleased that he could help. I’m sure there are many other people who are better off because Tom was the kind of man who simply liked to be of help.

In closing, when I think of Tom, I remember a kind, considerate and smiling man sitting with Judy on the outdoor patio of their Brentwood Bay home gazing at the ocean which he enjoyed and loved so much.

Jack Clipperton along with his family offer Judy and her family sincere condolences on the passing of Thomas.

Tom was like a 6th brother to me, except that my own brothers were adults when I was a kid. Tom reached out to me every day when I knew him, with his broad happy smile and sincere greeting with a wave of his hand whether I was coming or going, everyday, and every meal since we ate at the same table.

Happy events for Tom were activities where musical entertainment was offered by Cambridge Manor. He kept time with the music by tapping his fingers on the table or reaching for mine, so we could tap together. We both anticipated the arrival of Judy who always tried to join us for the musical presentations in the auditorium.

It has been easy to have Tom as a best friend because of his kind and happy disposition. It was so easy to satisfy his needs at the table, or else where during his time in Cambridge Manor. Each day I looked forward to finding Tom resting in the lounge where I could sit with him, often holding his hand, which was always warmer than mine.

I will miss him forever.

My family and I grieve for Tom and pray for his family.