March 11, 1932 Wishaw, Scotland
Died peacefully January 28, 2025 Calgary, AB
Tom and his mother, Isabella, came from Scotland to Cochrane, AB in 1947, following his war bride sister Christina (Jimmy MacKay). He loved Canada and was a proud Canadian. He moved to Calgary for work in the new oil industry and in later years enjoyed his time in Canada’s Arctic working for ELF Oil on environmental issues with the Indigenous people of the North. Following his work in industry he held various positions working on behalf of the Canadian environment and Indigenous people, as well as consulting overseas. Many organizations, and particularly those related to nature and conservation, benefited from his significant volunteer efforts. He proudly received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws degree from the University of Calgary.
Tom was a committed and loving family man. He met the love of his life, Shirley, in 1952 and they celebrated their 70th anniversary last year. They raised 5 children in their Calgary home. Tom’s love of nature and outdoor activities (including hunting & fishing) continues in all his children and each subsequent generation. Tom & Shirley purchased property in Grand Valley where they built a log cabin and barn – now enjoyed by generations of family and friends ( including family dogs & horses). Tom had a great sense of humour, liked practical jokes, and maintained lifelong friendships.
Tom is survived by his wife Shirley; children Brenda (Gerald), Nancy (Trent), Doug (Diane), Neil (Luis), Glen (Gina); grandchildren Becky (Jon), Brady, Carlyn (Martin), Thalia (Derek), Kirsty (Tyson), Dylan & great grandchildren Theo, Hunter, Lauretta, Tell, Sampson & Isabel.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date.
