Obituary of Thomas "Tom" Arthur Holt

HOLT: Thomas (Tom) Arthur: 1925-2012. It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of husband, father and grandfather on February 13th, 2012 at Valleyview Care Centre at the age of 86. Tom will be terribly missed by his loving wife of 66 years, Muriel. Left to cherish dad's memory are his children: Darlene (Doug) AB, Lynda AB, Donna (Lawrence) Bdn, Ernie (Audrey) Bdn, Ruth (Eric) Wpg (predeceased). Grandchildren: Trevor (Linda) AB, Laurie (predeceased), Keri (David) AB, Jodi (Jim) AB, Cindy (Randy) SK, Tracy (Barry) MB, Tim (Donna) Wpg, Jack (Shelly) Wpg, Trina (Kevin) Wpg. Great grandchildren: Nicole, Natasha, Nalissa, Rian, Emma, Alexander, Andrew, Morgan, Bradley (Jazmine), Megan, Selena, Scott, Kyle, Andrea, Brandi, Colin, Brody. Great great grandchild: Taysen. Sister-in-law: Sylvia Glover. Tom was born in Powell River, BC on July 25, 1925 to parents Bill and Janet Holt. He was the second eldest son. He had three brothers, Dwight, Harold and Rufus and four sisters, Daisy, Rosemarie, Vernice and Scottie (all predeceased). He grew up in Priddis, AB where he received his education but quit early to help his parents with cattle ranching and started entering into bull riding at rodeos. In 1940, Tom joined the army and moved to Brandon for training, where he met his wife, Muriel. After serving in the war, he returned home, got married and from there he became a man of all trades until he decided to start his own business, Brandon City Janitorial. Upon retirement, Tom and Muriel resided in the Lions Manor. Tom was an active member of the Centennial Lions Club in which he was awarded the Melvin Jones Award. He worked many a Sunday at Lions bingo. Tom was a hard worker so he didn't have much free time, however, nothing made him happier than having the family all together. Christmas was his favorite time of the year; he would bring out his guitar and harmonica and was able to visit with his best friend Bill Robinson and brothers-in-law, Fred and Jim Randall. He enjoyed summer vacations to Alberta, his trip to Nashville, time spent at the Minnedosa cabin and picnics at the Brandon Hills where all the cousins could play together. Dad loved to share with us the stories of the old days, be it growing up, wartime or rodeo life. Tom spent his entire life showing kindness and consideration for others. Tom was a man of integrity and dignity and would do anything for family and friends. When he made a friend, it was a lifetime friendship. Tom will be remembered for his hearty laugh, his smile and his unique sense of humor. Even though his health had failed him, he still maintained his vows and dedication to his wife and children to the end. He was a loving husband, an amazing father and an incredible grandfather. We will sadly miss him and treasure our memories of him forever. The family gratefully acknowledges Dr. Large and sincerely appreciates the respectful and professional care that our dad received from the staff at Valleyview Care Home. Following dad's wishes, cremation has already taken place and interment will be held at a later date with a private family ceremony at Rosewood Memorial Gardens.