THOMAS CECIL WILLOWS

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THOMAS CECIL WILLOWS 1925 - 2011 Peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, it is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Cecil Willows on Friday, February 25, 2011 at the Grace Hospice at the age of 85 years. Left to cherish Tom's memory is his loving wife of 62 years of marriage, Mary; daughter Marnie (Frank) Palmer; sons Ian (Rhonda) Willows, Bruce (Michelle) Willows of Rivers, MB, Brent (Janice) Willows; grandchildren Kyleigh, Jeff, Nicole, Erika, Brett, Riley, Christopher and Michael. He was predeceased by his mother Hilda; father George; brother Fred; and sister Doris. Tom was born May 22, 1925 in his parents' home on Rathgar Avenue. He attended Lord Roberts Elementary and Kelvin High School. During the Second World War, he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy and served on the H.M.C.S. Uganda. After the war, he worked for over 40 years at the Transcona C.N. Shops. Tom apprenticed as an electrician and later became a foreman of the locomotive department. Family came first for Dad. He was always there to help out babysit or repair whatever needed fixing around our homes. He loved family gatherings, especially at his cottage at Victoria Beach. He spent many summers swimming at Connaught Beach and canoeing around Elk Island. Tom enjoyed all sports. Curling was a life-long pursuit of Dad's which he continued right up until last winter. He made many friends at Fort Rouge and later Deer Lodge curling clubs. Dad was very proud of the sports and academic accomplishments of all his grandchildren. Papa was their number one fan. In accordance with Tom's wishes, a private family gathering will take place at a later date. We would ask that others honour his memory in their own way. Our sincere thanks go to Dr. Pat Harris and the staff at the Grace Hospice for their kind and gentle care of Dad. In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory may be made to a charity of choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 05, 2011