My father was born on August 18, 1948, to parents Thomas and Norma Brock in Hamilton, Ontario. He enjoyed a wonderful childhood alongside his older brother Brian.
He graduated from McMaster with a Commerce degree (BComm) and moved to Toronto where he began his career with what is now known as the CRA. His career with the CRA would span over three decades, winning several awards and holding several leadership positions within the agency. More importantly, he served as mentor and cherished colleague of many during his long and devoted career.
In his early years at the CRA, he met my mother Lucy Brock (née Sobura). Upon securing a first date, my dad proudly proclaimed to family that he "had a date with the most beautiful girl in Toronto!" They were married on September 25, 1976. They enjoyed a wonderful marriage and life together. My dad was a loving, caring and gracious husband and caregiver to my late mother.
After some time in Toronto, my parents settled in Brampton before moving to Mississauga in 1990. I was born in Brampton in 1986. I was very spoiled and lucky to have such loving and supportive parents. My Dad was my biggest fan no matter the pursuit – be it academic, athletic, a hobby or otherwise. He would go out of his way to support me in every aspect of my life and for that I am incredibly grateful.
Outside of work and family life, my father enjoyed several passions and hobbies. He was a master gardener, avid cottager, and “summertime-backyard-and-cottage-fun” afficionado. He lived for providing fun and enjoyment for others. He would meticulously plan cottage trips for our family and friends, backyard BBQs and other family gatherings. He simply loved summer. Some of my fondest memories will always be playing lawn darts, backyard badminton, and going for swims in the pool or the lake.
He was also an avid sports fan, supporting the Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, Raptors and Tiger Cats. It was always fun to catch a game with him because he could be a bit… animated. Watching and talking Leafs with my dad was one of my simplest joys in life and I think we will all miss that side of him dearly. Go Leafs Go. He would also travel as far as he could to catch hockey games of his grand-nephew, Brock Houser. My dad will always be one of the Southern Tier Admirals AAA's biggest fans.
Later in life my dad regained an itch for traveling. He was becoming a globetrotter – visiting Peru, the Galapagos Islands, Florida, the Caribbean, and many other destinations. He enjoyed setting off on new adventures with his close friends and family.
Among many traits, my dad truly valued perseverance and resilience. His determination could be relentless, and he instilled these values in our family. He instilled them in me as a young man finding his way; and in my mother as a warrior battling her own health challenges. When he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer late last year, he deployed these values alongside his true inner strength. He fought cancer with bravery, courage, and determination. I am so appreciative of the time we spent together and the lifelong wisdom he imparted on me.
I am so lucky to have had such a wonderful, loving and courageous father. He left this world peacefully in his home on March 1, 2021, holding the hands of my wife and I as we told him how much we loved him.
