HOPKIRK, Thomas Edward

2017-07-18

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 PQ) 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 N.S. BOJ 2C0.

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