Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Herbert Cook of Kyle, SK.
Tom passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of July 9, 2021, at the age of 62.
Tom was born in Elrose July 23, 1958, to Thomas “Linton” and Elizabeth “Betty” Cook. He grew up and spent all of his life in Kyle, with the exception being a short period of time when he worked in Oshawa, ON. In 1977, Tom came back home and farmed with his father until Linton’s passing. He continued to farm, gradually purchasing the farmland from his mother Betty, and took over completely after her death in 2005.
Tom met his one and only love Patricia Kilmer in 1975 when her family moved to Kyle. Tom and Pat began dating in July 1977 and were married in Kyle July 7, 1984. They spent 44 years together, 37 of those married, building a life and a family. They had three children: Natasha Ann in 1985, Chantel Elise in 1989, and Joshua Thomas in 1990. Tom was a very proud father and participated in the many activities and endeavours of his children. He appeared to be a big burly man but was a gentle, supportive, and affectionate teddy bear to his kids – and later as “Papa Tom” to his grandchildren Duncan Thomas (2017) and Caleb Bradley (2020). Tom was an excellent provider for his family, with his responsible nature and incredible work ethic. He was a man of his word: humble, honest, trustworthy, kind, and so much smarter than he ever gave himself credit for.
Tom was exceptionally skilled with his hands and began working as a full-time mechanic at the Esso, starting in the late summer 1981. He loved working for Carl & Betty Merkel, and quickly became part of the Merkel family. Many great memories were made together over the years (some involving “Carl drinks” and games of crib). Tom continued to work at the Esso for new owners Armin & Trudy Loftsgard, and then Roy & Wanda Brown. Tom worked hard for everything he had and never had anything handed to him. He was an extremely hard worker who would wake early in the morning to tend the farm, before beginning his day at the Esso. He would often finish his workday by returning to the farm in the evenings and continued like this until the early 2000s.
Tom was a firm believer of giving back and was an active member of his community. Over the years, he was a member of the Kyle Kinsmen, the Kyle Legion, the Kyle Volunteer Fire Department, and an RM councillor. Tom joined the fire department in 1985, becoming Deputy Fire Chief shortly after. He was immensely dedicated to this role and took it very seriously. He accumulated a wealth of knowledge in his years of service and was eager to pass this on to anyone who was willing to learn. Tom was in his second term as an RM councillor, and thoroughly enjoyed working for his constituents. He was impressed by the drive and commitment of the RM council members and administration, especially the young councillors on the team.
Tom is predeceased by his parents Linton (Sept 1977), and Betty (Mar 2005); his nephew Jeffery Hodgins (Feb 2001); his mother-in-law Ann Thomsen (Feb 2008); his brother John Cook (Mar 2021); as well as numerous other relatives and close friends. He is survived by his wife Patricia; children Natasha (Andrew Ball), Chantel (Davin Sander), and Josh; grandchildren Duncan and Caleb Sander. He is also survived by his sister Jane (Glen Flaterud) and their children and grandchildren.
Those who took the time to get to know and love Tom were fortunate to have him in their lives. He left a lasting impression on so many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Tom’s final wishes were to be cremated. He did not want a funeral; however, the family will be holding a private gathering on July 23, which would have been his 63rd birthday. Those wishing to pay their respects are welcome to visit the farm after 8:00pm on the 23rd.
Anyone wishing to make a donation in Tom’s name can do so to the Kyle and District Volunteer Fire Department, or to the Royal University Hospital Foundation (designated to the Coronary Care Unit).
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas COOK, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Thomas COOK July 23 1958 July 9 2021 (age 62)..
Death notice for the town of: Rosetown, Province: Saskatchewan