It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved father and grandfather, Tom Allison, on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Tom is survived by his former wife, Catherine (nee Crowe), his five children: Jim, Bill (Christine), Andy (Heather), Nancy (Lorne), and Lawrence; and his eight grandchildren: Brooke, Abigail, Isaac, Erika, Lucas, Audrey, Miriam, and Hugh. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Gwendolyne (nee Lawrence) Allison of Dixie, Mississauga.
Tom graduated from the University of Guelph in 1968 with an Honours B.Sc. in Agriculture, and shortly after settled on a farm with Cathy near Manilla. He taught physics and science at Port Perry High School and quickly became involved in numerous community organizations such as the Sunderland Lions Club, Minor Hockey, the Co-op Board, and the Cannington Curling Club. He later returned to his trucking roots, founding his own business and working for over 30 years as a driver, making connections and sharing laughs with fellow farmers and friends along the way.
Tom was a pragmatic man who knew his own mind and enjoyed a great joke. He loved the freedom of driving, traveling across North America to visit historical monuments and every baseball stadium he could. An avid reader and devoted learner, his curiosity led him to interview everyone he met, always living by his motto: “If you don’t ask, you won’t know!” He embraced challenges, whether it was plowing a straight opening split or crafting a tidy crown. Above all, he was a proud and devoted supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities, always found rinkside, at the finish line, in the audience, or right behind home plate.
Tom’s presence will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his spirit will live on in our hearts and memories. Sincere thanks to the physicians, specialists, and hospital staff at Port Perry Hospital, Southlake Regional, Peterborough Regional, Lakeridge Oshawa, and Ross Memorial Hospital for their care.
As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made to the Port Perry Hospital Foundation, the Durham Plowman’s Association, or a charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Sunderland Legion on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
