Tom was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, just before the war. Even as a child he was already a very happy boy, gentle, and loving. Our sister Marta was 9 years older than me, 13 years older than Tom, and so the two of us stuck together, and we remained close. We remained very close throughout our lives. There was not one mean bone in Tom's body. I don't even think he was capable of an evil thought. Everyone remembers him as an easy going, always smiling person. He loved singing, dancing and especially Western Music. He loved nature, growing things, and he knew many plants and birds by name. Oh, and how he loved fishing! That was one big passion of his. He loved children and animals, and they loved him back.
After our arrival in Canada in 1948 my father enrolled Tom as a boarder in Appleby College in Oakville. He was barely 12 years old then, with no knowledge of English, and away from his family. Somehow he managed to survive, learn to speak English well, to play football and baseball, as well as cricket, and became a member of the Appleby Cadet Corps. I think he actually began to enjoy his years at this school. After he graduated Tom entered into his first year of Engineering at U of T, upon his father's insistence - big mistake! Tom was not cut out for that, he should have studied biology, zoology ... He worked so hard, but never really made it, and eventually started working in our family automotive business, where he excelled in remembering part numbers and figures. This became his job for life, one he felt comfortable in.
Tom lived with us for many long years - he was part of our family. He became a very enthusiastic supporter and an active member of OFAH, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. He generously supported me and our children in many of our interests and hobbies.
His very last trip, just before his third stroke (5 years ago) was to Tortola, British Virgin Islands. He was very happy there, thoroughly enjoying being with us, swimming in the ocean, and sharing all our adventures. Here is a good Rum Punch to you, Tommy! Miss you so much.
