DOWN, Thomas James Down

Peacefully, surrounded by loving family on Saturday, April 4, 2026, Thomas James Down passed away at the age of 74. Beloved husband and best friend of Julie. Loving father to Margaret Matuzich and Paul (Patty) Matuzic. Cherished grandfather of Aiden Matuzic, Morgan Matuzic, and Molly Matuzich‑Osmond. Treasured brother of Michael (Karen) Down, Edward (Cathy) Down, and James “Buck” Down. Brother‑in‑law of John (Lynne) Lademer and Joe (Diane) Lademer.

He will be lovingly remembered by his mother‑in‑law, Doris Lademer, and by many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Judith (née Shoebottom) Down; his sister, Kathy Down; his brother, Roger Down; his father‑in‑law, Walter Lademer; and his best friend, Benni. Tom grew up on his family’s farm outside Woodstock, ON, a place he spoke of often and with great pride. He loved sharing stories of farm life and the time he spent with his grandparents and extended family. He graduated from York University, where he formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. A true entrepreneur at heart, Tom built his career on genuine connection. A natural conversationalist, he treated every customer like a friend and never forgot a face. His business journey had its ups and downs—as all great ventures do—but he found lasting success and community as the proud owner of Artisan Wines in Sarnia.

Tom was a long‑time member of the Bluewater Ski Club and delighted in skiing across Canada and much of the United States. He was also an avid sailor who found joy and freedom on the water. He and Julie shared countless adventures sailing in the Caribbean and throughout the North Channel of Lake Huron, creating memories they treasured deeply. Tom sailed the Bayview Mackinac Island race many times and served the Sarnia Yacht Club with dedication, including in his role as Past Commodore. Tom loved people. He loved conversation. His door was always open, and there was always a seat waiting at his tiki bar for a friend—old or new. He enjoyed traveling, but his favourite place in the world was the home he shared with Julie on the lake. A close second was the family cottage in Port Bruce, where he spent nearly every summer and Thanksgiving of his life. Tom lived fully, loved deeply, and made everyone around him feel welcome. His warmth, humour, and generous spirit will be remembered always. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Junior Sailors (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.