On October 22, 2018 Tom Hycha passed away peacefully with his wife by his side and surrounded by family in the house he built and lived in for 58 years. He had just reached his 90th year.
Tom was born the sixth child of eight to Michael and Katherine Hycza in Preeceville, Saskatchewan. He worked and traveled across the country before marrying Shirley and then eventually settling in Ponoka. For 27 years he worked as a plasterer at what was known as the Ponoka Mental Hospital as well as in the community often pointing out the houses that he had paraged or plastered. He was active as a Scouts leaders, union steward and Provincial Executive member, a foster and a hockey dad, and AA mentor. In his retirement he lived life through travel, golfing with his unique swing, and helping his children set up their homes. He enjoyed making new friends through his activities with the Legion, dancing, and solving the world problems with the coffee gang. He was famous for his gardening specializing in growing tomatoes.
Tom was known for his chicken soup, guaranteeing family visiting whenever it was on the stove. In the final couple years of his life he made new friends at the Cancer Centre, hospital and with new neighbors. He was forever grateful for the support and assistance by those who traveled with him to his various appointments. And to those who enabled him to finish his life at home – Home Care, Dr. Halse & Dr. Moore, EMS and community paramedics, and FCSS.
Sadly and lovingly left behind are wife Shirley for 63 years, daughters Debbie and Dennie (Bill Hoar) and sons Kevin (Carol) and Kelsey.
Grandchildren – Jeff Moore, great-grandson Caison Moore, Jennifer Cowen (Mike), Erin Hoar (Dieter), Paul Hoar (Janelle), Amy Hycha (Jordon) and Thomas Hycha (Ally); sister Jean Berard (of Winnipeg), many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, friend, and neighbors. We will all miss his teasing, the twinkle in his eye and his optimistic approach to life.
A family Interment Service will be held at Forest Home Cemetery on October 27, 2018.
A Celebration of Life for Tom will take place on Friday, November 16, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion in Ponoka.
If desired, memorial donations can be made to the Ponoka Youth Centre (Box 4115, Ponoka, AB, T4J 1R5); Ponoka FCSS (Box 4004, Ponoka AB, T4J 1R5); or any charity of your choice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Thomas Jack Hycha September 22 1928 October 22 2018 (age 90)..
Death notice for the town of: Wetaskiwin, Province: Alberta