Tribute

The “Best Dad/Grandpa/Friend ever” passed away peacefully on November 30 to be reunited with his soul mate “Marjie”. Tom (“Chief”) was born April 5, 1925 in Vancouver and served Canada proudly in the Royal Canadian Navy in the Second World War and selflessly for the City of Vancouver for 38 years in the Vancouver Fire Department.  He retired in 1984 as Chief of Rescue and Safety.

Predeceased by his wife Marjorie Louise (Wilson), his dad Francis Thomas Bradley, mother Rose Elizabeth (Holliday), brother Frank and sisters’ Amy and Ethel. 

Tom leaves behind sons Bill, his wife Marguerite and grandchildren, Matthew, Catherine and Jessica and Norm and his wife, Sherry and granddaughters, Ashley and Courtney.

Tom was very active in all youth sports.  Tom coached the “Firefighters” Little League Baseball team at Renfrew Park for years and served in all offices of the organization.  He also refereed youth football and baseball.

Tom and his loving wife “Bear” were founding members of the BC Lions’ Lionbackers’ Club and original season ticket holders of the Seattle Seahawks.  They were also passionate high school basketball fans.

Upon retirement, Tom took up golf seriously as previously it was “a game for old, and now he qualified”.  Tom, Marj and dog “Sam” travelled all over Canada and the US visiting golf courses, while watching Tom’s idol Jack Nicklaus.

Tom’s life was simply to serve others.  He served his country.  He served his City.  He served his community.  He served his colleagues.  He most importantly served his family and he helped everyone with anything and everything!

Tom was a playful “brat” who had that mischievous twinkle in his eye.  He was kind, caring, flirtatious, accepting and so loving.  Whether it was playing “Tigers”, “Teacher”, “Barbies”, soccer or building whatever our hearts desired and were interested in, Grandpa was always there for us.  We knew we could always call and count on him! 

Family was everything to Tom – he was our rock!  We will follow his passion for living for the rest of our lives.  You always think of him as someone who made you feel very special.  He took such interest in everyone he met, and Bear and Chief opened their hearts and home to everyone.

Private family remembrance will be held at a later date.  The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Worthington Pavilion for their loving and playful care.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Vancouver Firefighters’ Charitable Society would be appreciated.