In Memory of Thomas George McQuiston

September 15, 1926 - June 12, 2016

Thomas George McQuiston, 89 of Toronto, ON died peacefully on Sunday June 12, 2016.  He is survived by his loving wife, Ella (nee Gulbronson), daughter, Margaret of Calgary, son, David of Toronto (Kim) and sister, Maude of Dundonald, N. Ireland.  He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Tommy and Maddy.  

Tom was born in Belfast, N. Ireland on September 15, 1926 and enjoyed a close family life with his cousins and sister as well as cycling and hiking with his friends and playing trumpet in a dance band.  He worked in the Harland and Wolff Shipyards as a ship's draftsman before immigrating to Canada in 1951 to work in the Collingwood shipyard as a draftsman/estimator.  Ella and Tom were married on May 23, 1957 in Collingwood, ON.  Soon after, they moved to Toronto where Tom studied history at the University of Toronto completing his Bachelor's and Master's degrees and receiving a teaching certificate from the Ontario College of Education.  Tom was a respected teacher in the history department at Northview Heights Secondary School and took great interest in student life including managing the downhill ski racing team, coaching soccer, and staff advisor to the students' council.  He was the history department head before he retired in 1989.

Tom was also active in his community.  He was a founding member and Chair of Community Information Fairview and was on the Board of Directors for Eva's Initiatives.  He was passionate about politics and was a founding member of Dialogue Canada, Toronto Chapter.  Tom was very involved in the Anglican church and took on many leadership and education roles in both his own parish as well as the Diocese of Toronto.  He enjoyed reading, theatre, music and travel.   

Tom however will be remembered mostly for his kindness, love of life and his generosity toward others. He could always find the best of every situation and had great patience.  Tom was a passionate learner and would always have thoughtful insights to offer on any number of topics, especially politics and international affairs. He was always up for a good laugh and a great story. There was a constant sparkle in Tom's eye and a smile on the ready. He made all those around him feel special and thankful that they'd had the privilege to know him. Family and friends were very important to him, and especially his partner in life and love, Ella. The love that Tom and Ella showed for each other completely emanated all around them and remains a love that is awe-inspiring. Tom's legacy and love of life will live on in his children Margaret and David (Kim) and in turn, his grandchildren. He will be remembered often and fondly for many reasons. He had good innings.

A funeral service and celebration of life will be held at St. Matthew the Apostle, Oriole, 80 George Henry Blvd, North York, ON at 2 pm on Saturday June 18. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Matthew church would be appreciated.