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TOM KATO
Born: Aug 27, 1933
Date of Passing: Jun 27, 2022
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TOM KATO
Our dear Dad, Tom Kato, passed away peacefully in Vancouver, on June 27, 2022, with my brother Robert and me by his side.
Survived by his son Robert (Ungelica), daughter Debra, brother-in-law Raymond and other family and friends.
He was born in Mission, BC, on August 27, 1933. He had a very hard childhood, being forced into internment with his family during the war, and having to leave BC. Despite these and other challenges, he was able to work hard and become a master electrician, and had a successful career with CNR in Winnipeg. He also became a contractor and built our family home in Charleswood.
He had many friends in Winnipeg, became part of a pit crew in stock car racing, and also became a talented woodcarver. He also enjoyed travelling, to Japan (his parents' birthplace), Hawaii, Las Vegas, weekend trips across the border, and others. He enjoyed his computer especially for keeping in touch with his friends by email.
He would return to BC every year to stay with me to escape the Winnipeg winter. He became a BC resident again during the pandemic which was fortunate for me. In recent months, life became painful for him. Pain became too hard for our strong Dad to endure. He had to go to Vancouver General Hospital and then to the Vancouver hospice before passing away. Thanks so much to the caring and supportive healthcare staff who made our Dad's last days comfortable.
We're so grateful to have had him as our Dad, such a smart, generous, loving man. We're glad that we had one last Father's Day with him. Rest In Peace, dear Dad. We'll miss you more than we can ever express.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 09, 2022
Condolences & Memories (2 entries)
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Dear Robert and Debbie - so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Our fond memories if your family and ours go a long ways back. It does sadden me that we have lost touch in later years but my photos remind me of our good times together. Your Dad had a good long life and was blessed to have a caring family. May he rest in peace - no more pain. Love and hugs. - Posted by: Carol and Vernon Wilkinson (Friend) on: Aug 02, 2022
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I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. It was an honour to have had Tom as a friend. Years ago after I had knee surgery, Tom made me a beautiful cane from a Diamond Willow tree that I have always considered a real treasure. He was a wonderful wood carver. His emails were always appreciated as well. We had a lot of nice times. It was great having him as a friend and a part of my life. I’m so sorry Debra and Robert for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Brian Olshewski - Posted by: Brian Olshewski (Friend) on: Jul 10, 2022