Surrounded by the love of his children, Thomas Francis Punch passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 21, 2022. Now reunited with his beloved wife “Peggy”.
Tom was the proud father of Wayne (Sandra), Sandy (Darlene), Martin (Terri), Kevin (Danielle), Mae Anderson (Dale), Greg (Terri) and Kathleen Carlson (Derek). Grandpa and Papa to his cherished grandchildren Christopher (Elsa), Krystal FitzSimmons (John), Candace (Dave), Cameron (Jennifer), Amy Carlson, Rhiannon, and Kyran. Papa Tommy to his great grandchildren Evan, and Dana and Robert FitzSimmons. He will be missed by his pet Miss Cat and all his grand fur babies.
Tommy was born November 22, 1931, to the late John and Cecile Punch. A trusted brother of Albert (Joan), Hugh (Claire), Mary Miller and Louise Blair (late Hollis). Predeceased by Leo (Jean), Joan MacDonald and Reginald. He was a respected brother-in-law to the late Alex Farrell (late Ruth), late Frank Farrell (Nora), John Farrell (Joan) and late Mary MacDougall (late Jim). Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Tom started his career at 8 years of age working in a grocery store in Antigonish, Nova Scotia; getting his driver’s license at the age of 12 to drive the delivery truck. He learned his carpentry trade working with his father at the local mill. Tom and Peggy moved to Sault Ste. Marie in 1954 and he began working for Soo Mill for a number of years. A talented carpenter, he built all three of his homes. He obtained his teacher’s degree and finished a devoted career teaching building construction at Alexander Henry and Lakeway Collegiate. Tom found time to help whenever he could. He was a dedicated, long-standing member of the Soo Pee Wee Arena Association, serving on the Board of Directors.
Tommy was an avid musician playing as a young man in numerous bands and continued to play with his friends during the winter months in Williston, Florida at the “barn” during his retirement. He was happiest at his summer home on the lake in Thessalon with wonderful neighbours he treated like family. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons, making music with his brother Albert, and his adventures alongside his brother-in-law Frank. Dad was not afraid of the kitchen and will be remembered for pancake breakfasts and cooking and perfecting gramma’s biscuits (after washing his hands).
The family would like to thank the staff at Pathways Retirement Home for their care and friendship over the last two years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St James Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).