Tom passed away suddenly but peacefully in his sleep at the age of 32, in Toronto, Ontario.
His people came from manor homes in England, sea captains in Newfoundland, and the farmlands of Lithuania; a legacy which gave Tommy a wonderful sense of humour, natural warmth, and the ability to put others at ease. His people became everyone he met, from around the globe. He was ever-present to whomever he was with; happiest when he could make a difference in someone’s life. From scheduling shifts to help his staff, or being Best Man standing up to his quiet fears for delivering exactly what was needed. Tom valued loyalty and kindness. He attracted friends from the time he was a Chickadee at the Ashgrove Jr Y, through Hillside Middle School. After finishing high school at Clarkson Secondary, he went on to Humber in Hospitality Management. Family dinners offered Nana’s Newfoundland savoury dressing, Oma’s potato kugelis, sometimes Jamaican hot sauce, and always laughter. The indelible connection of love baked into food may have led him to the restaurant business. Beginning as a dishwasher at Lucy’s, Tom worked his way up to sous-chef and chef, most recently at the Bloor West institution, Shakey’s. A gifted musician, Tom was music! He loved to dance. He could pick up any instrument and bring it to life. Drums and guitars were integral to his existence, and his depth was mined for a growing body of work in electronic composition. Often people were surprised by Tom’s accomplishments because he seldom placed them front and centre. He felt they were what he owed Life but we will remember his many talents, his compassion, and his positive outlook; for being so many things to so many people. After his sister’s death in 2015, Tom took on responsibility for his parent’s healing. Tommy has gone to join his sister, Kristy, and her partner, Nick, as well as his beloved grandparents. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his parents, John Hodgson, and Renata Simkus, his aunts, uncles, and cousins. And his people.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's memory can be made to ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development, VIBE ARTS for Children and Youth or a charity close to your heart.