THOMAS EDWARD HOPKIRK
With much sadness, we announce that Thomas Edward Hopkirk, of
Lunenburg, NS and Toronto, passed away on July 18, 2017. Born on
December 1, 1946, he was the son of the late Dr. James Hopkirk and
Virginia Hopkirk (nee Kilroy), stepson to Maxwell Martyn.
Beloved husband of Gail Carleton, devoted brother of John Gavin Hopkirk
(Maple Ridge, BC), brother-in-law to John's wife, Jean Sinden and
brother of the late James Peter Hopkirk. Brother-in-law to Linda
Ferguson (Leslie), Robert Carleton (Jasmin), Barbara, Ian (Mary), the
late Bruce Carleton. Survived by nephews Scott, Clark, Rob and Todd
Ferguson, their respective families, by Timothy, Anthony and Peter
Carleton and by Jean's sons, Shaun and Brett. Tom is fondly remembered
by the Kilroy, Moriarty and Sullivan families.
Tom attended Lower Canada College (Montreal, QC) and Nichols College
(Massachusetts). He was well-respected in the leasing and financial
services sectors, honoured by the CFLA on two occasions as Member of
the Year for his outstanding service to Leasing Industry.
Tom had a very important role in providing care for Gail's now late
brother, Bruce who had Down Syndrome and who lived with Tom and Gail
for over 20 years. Tom's kindness and generosity in playing such a
pivotal role contributed to Bruce enjoying a rich and fulfilling life.
It was common to see Bruce following along ten feet behind Tom,
whenever they went out. Tom further had welcomed Gail's mother,
Margaret, to share their home for many years. Tom had a special
relationship with his brother-in-law and close friend, Robert Carleton.
Tom was always appreciative of the exceptional efforts by Robert's
wife, Jasmin, to make him comfortable and well fed. Gail was Tom's
constant companion and they enjoyed a wonderful thirty-year marriage.
Tom was always grateful for the kindness shown to him over his lifetime
by the Bovaird family, kindness also extended to Gail. He considered
the parents, Laird and Sheila Bovaird, as his second parents. Tom took
great pride as he was considered to be the fifth Bovaird brother to
Birks, Terry, Tim and Chris. He was particularly fond of their children
Victoria, Sarah, Caroline, Jennifer, Katie, Rowan and Lindsay and their
families. He was honoured to be the godfather of Caroline Bovaird. Tom
remarked that the Bovaird family provided him with a lifetime of happy
memories.
Tom was an active member of the Curling Section at The Cricket Club
(Toronto) and valued his many friendships there and at the Lunenburg
Curling Club and the Chester Golf Club. It was always important to Tom
to maintain contact with his many friends acquired over the years at
Lower Canada College, Nichols College, IAC, and through his many
business and social connections. Tom loved his friends. He would
particularly want to acknowledge those friends who made exceptional
efforts for him and for Gail, especially over the recent difficult
months.
On behalf of Tom and the family, we extend our appreciation for the
wonderful care and support from medical and nursing staffs, oncology
groups, VON, home care, physio and the palliative care team. These
support groups made it possible for Tom to enjoy the past several years
in spite of overwhelming medical challenges. Gail provided Tom with
exceptional love and support especially over the last few years.
A celebration of Tom's life will be held in Toronto in September, details to follow. Online condolences are welcomed at www.sweenyfuneralhome.ca.
If desired, donations in memory of Bruce Carleton may be sent to Bonny
Lea Farm, P.O. Box 560, 5 Collicutt Road, Chester, NS BOJ 2 C0.
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This page was last updated on 27 July 2017