GABLE, Thomas Duncan (Tom)
With profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of Tom Gable on Christmas Eve at Victoria General Hospital with his beloved family at his side. We are grateful for Tom’s 67 years of good health and his good cheer, even as cancer overtook him in his final week.
Loving husband of Alice (nee Rosnau) for 44 years; proud and loving father of daughter Jennifer, son Bradley and daughter-in-law Barb; and doting grandfather to Matt and Jeff. Related by marriage and loved as a brother by Lorne (Lorna) Rosnau, Marianne (Len) Sterling, Rob Rosnau, Tim Rosnau, Lorna Gabel, and Adeline Henderson. Loved as a lifetime friend by Larry (Doreen) Heron, Bernie (Sandra) Bradley, and Ron (Judy) Larmour. A favourite Uncle to all the nieces and nephews.
A pioneer and leader in the Food Service industry in Canada, rewarded with the respect and friendship of his peers for his honesty and integrity, and honoured with a Lifetime Achievement award when he retired 10 years ago. A generous mentor to many including son Bradley whose career path has lead him into the same industry.
Tom was proud of being a leader in the early years of organized female hockey in Ontario, coaching daughter Jennifer’s team, the Toronto Aeros, to win the 1981 Provincials. Playing fastball and marrying a Rosnau earned him honorary membership in the Concordia College Alumni in Edmonton. Playing raquetball and golf in Vancouver led to many special and enduring friendships.
After his retirement, his focus turned to being a good golf buddy to the guys at Cordova Bay, Peace Portal and Olympic View, a dedicated member of the Sooke Rotary Club, a staunch supporter of the Sooke Community Choir and an enthusiastic slo-pitch player for The Gloves.
Tom was all these things and so much more. He will be remembered with love and gratitude for sharing his life and his big heart with us.
A private service will be held in Edmonton in the church where Tom confirmed his faith in a loving God, was married and saw his children baptized.
In his adopted home of Sooke, an occasion to gather in Tom’s memory will be announced for early in 2009. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity that supports the disadvantaged in our world.