Obituary
April 19, 1947 – September 10, 2020
Tom was born in Toronto on April 19, 1947. He was the son of the late Alfred and Dorothy Trusler. Tom passed away on September 10, 2020 at the age of 73, following a long battle with COPD.
Tom was able to spend his final two months at home with his loving family who were by his side until the end.
Tom was the loving husband of Karen (White) of 35 years, and the devoted father of Ashley and Kyle, and a proud Grandpa to his precious Lincoln.
Tom taught in the Meaford/Thornbury area for almost 33 years, and was a much-loved teacher to his many students who will remember him as ‘Mr. T’. His students will remember him for his sense of humour and his love of teaching.
After his retirement in 2001, Tom put his dedication to education to work for the next 17 years at Beaver Valley Community School (BVCS), volunteering in the office, photocopying for staff, and keeping the copy room neat and well stocked. In addition, he organized and ran the student Milk Program. He loved to be surrounded by the students he treasured. He also started attending ‘The Gotaway Club’ (retired staff of BVCS) and he took it upon himself to e-mail them a reminder every month of the breakfast gathering. He also spearheaded a monthly collection which the Club donated annually to a deserving charity or school program.
Tom also loved to give back to the community. He volunteered for many worthy organizations but he was best known as the coordinator of the Meaford Good Food Box Program, which he ran with his wife Karen, for over 17 years. This program has had a wide-reaching impact to many in the community. For many years Tom also collected pop tabs around town for the Pop Tabs for Wheelchairs program. He expanded the pick-up locations and also collected and promoted it in the schools. Many wheelchairs and scooters were provided to those in need because of Tom’s efforts.
Tom will be remembered for his dedication to education, helping others, and his unwavering sense of humour. His greatest joys were his family, being surrounded by his students, and to make others smile.
Cremation has taken place. A casual backyard Come-and-Go Remembrance of Tom’s life will take place on September 15, at 27 Parkview Avenue, from 3-6 p.m. Due to current Covid 19 provincial guidelines and funeral gathering protocols, social distancing and the wearing of masks are required should you wish to attend. Rain date September 16 from 3 – 6 p.m.
The family would like to thank Dr. Collins, the VON nurses, ParaMed Services, and Ann at Chapman House, for their compassion, support, and excellent care. As your expression of sympathy, memorial donations directed to the Friends of the Meaford Library (cheques only please), Meaford Hospital Foundation, Chapman House Hospice, or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made directly or through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, N4L1B9, or online at www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
