McGUIRE, Thomas James - In his 86th year, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 with loving family by his side.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Beloved husband, best friend and soulmate to Louise (nee Belanger) for 57 years. Loving father of Kathleen McGuire, Tracy Smith (Corey), Mary Geroux (David). Proud Papa of Tyler Smith (Claire) and Tristan Geroux. Thomas is now reunited with his parents Gerald and Elizabeth "Betty" McGuire. Cherished brother of the late Gratia Ann Husseini (Waleed), Gerald McGuire (Kaye), and Laura McGuire-Boyer. Son-in-law of the late Caroline (late Harold McGrayne) and the late Ernest Belanger. Dear brother-in-law of the late John Belanger (Doris), late David Belanger (Doris), Philip Belanger (Maxine), Ernest Belanger, late Harold Jr. McGrayne (Vicky), Phillina Kohlbacher (late Herman), Leslie McGrayne (Joanne), Veronica Lukkarila (Simo), and Colleen Hocking (Tony). Special friend to Larry Young, Ab McKinley, Ken and Paula Smith, and Rick and Carole Geroux. Affectionately, "Uncle Tom" to his many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many cousins, extended family and dear friends in both Canada and the U.S.
Born February 12th, 1937 in Vancouver, B.C. our dad was a man of many words. With great ease, he could transform one word or thought into a spirited tale. Whether it was the news of today or stories of yesteryear, lucky listeners were often led down a winding road of wit and wonder, embellished with his charm and always infused with pearls of wisdom.
Our dad was also a man of many miles. In his younger years he worked in various roles in finance which allowed him to relocate throughout Ontario. In fact, all of us girls were born in different cities, but the Sault is where he and our mom eventually settled to raise us and assist his aging parents in managing “The Building” at 510 Queen Street East.
Whether it was driving the bus as a Bandette dad, or driving his Grand Caravan to Halifax, Texas or anywhere in between, his love, devotion and support of his daughters “The McGuire Sisters” knew no bounds.
His favourite place to spend time was at Sailor’s Encampment on St. Joseph Island, where he cherished time with family and tended to his property down “Tom’s Road”.
A devout Catholic, he served many years with the Knights of Columbus and was honoured to receive a Family of the Year Award. Family was everything to him, his “reasons for living”.
Dad was a kind and gentle soul and will fondly be remembered by all family and friends for his genuine care and concern for others. Rest in Peace, Dad.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Valerie for special care and attention shown to our father in his final days.
Friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522) on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 between 9:00 am - 10:30 am. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 am at Precious Blood Cathedral (778 Queen St. East) with Rev. Jeff Shannon officiating. Tom will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. A reception will follow at The Gathering Place at Precious Blood Cathedral.
Memorial contributions (payable by cheque or online) to Precious Blood Cathedral or Sick Kids would be greatly appreciated. Please share fond memories and expressions of sympathy at www.arthurfuneralhome.com as this will become a keepsake for the McGuire family.
FORTITUDE
Dear JESUS,
Lay your Wounded Hand upon my weary head,
and teach me to have courage in the paths that I must tread.
Bless me, and bless those whom I love, and give us grace to see
These crosses bravely borne by us, will keep us close to Thee.
And if at times a shadow falls in unexpected ways,
Please put Your gentle Hand in mine and guide me through the days.
So bless my people, one and all, with Thy protecting grace,
And impart to them Thy Wisdom ere they meet Thee face to face.