Date of Birth: April 1, 1928
Date of Death: November 22, 2021
Thomas died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 93 years, in the tender loving care of the staff at Broadview Union Hospital on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021. A long, well lived life. He was born in Bowsman, Man. on April 1, 1928.
Thomas is predeceased by his loving wife of 56 years, Edith (2009). Tom is survived by his daughter Elizabeth (Regan); son David; and brother Bob Koester and his family, Alice, Judy, Philip, James and Laura; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and very special friends.
Tom and Edith were married on Nov. 1, 1952. He was known by many as Big Tom, Uncle Tom or Dad. Everyone loved his smile and he will always be remembered by those hands. His handshakes are not easily forgotten. Tom loved to walk and he did. He would always toss a wave to people passing by. Tom worked hard throughout his life. Joining Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1940s, he leaves behind his railroad friends. Moving west in 1967 he worked for the Alberni Plywood and was a life-long member of the IWA. Tom was always in work clothes ready to go. Living in
Winnipeg, Port Alberni, Victoria, Sicamous and Grenfell, Tom has now made his way home to Manitoba.
Their move to Grenfell was a happy one, being welcomed by good people. He leaves good friends behind. Tom was a volunteer. From the fire department at Sproat Lake to the Luxton fair and rodeos. He was always available to help the community.
Postponement of service for time being. Cremation with interment of cremated remains in Chapel Lawn Cemetery, Winnipeg, Man., at later date where he will join Edith. In Dad’s memory please place a winter bird feeder in your garden. He loved watching the birds. Financial donations may be made to the Broadview Union Hospital or the
Grenfell Health district. Please sign and leave a note on Dad’s memory page. With the way of the world is right now, this is important for all of us to share, laugh, and cry together.
A very special thank you to the staff at the Broadview Union Hospital, Grenfell Medical Clinic and Tubman
Funeral Home for their care, compassion and support they provided Tom and his family in this time.
Arrangements in care of Tubman Cremation and Funeral Services. Online condolences may be made at:
tubmanfh.com
