It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Alan W. Thom at the NBRHC on Saturday February 7, 2026, in his 91st year. He was a beloved husband and best friend to his wife, Shirley, née Jensen for over 65 years. He was a proud and supportive father of daughter Sandra, London, and son David (Janet) of Carleton Place, who will miss his love, wisdom and guidance. He was the loving son of Douglas (1974) and Nellie (née Robb) 1991, Sudbury. He was preceded by his older brother Frank (2020) and niece Eleanor (2006). He is survived by his sister-in-law, Grace Thom, Sudbury, his niece Karen Groom, Oakville and her children Allison (Cyrus Zahedi) and Brittany (Mike Gioseff), his cousins Judy Strato (Stan d.), Lloyd Myllynen, Sudbury and Beth Heal (Terry), Barrie. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Dennis Jensen, wife Rev. Leena Jensen, and niece Carley Jensen (Rob Harris) and their children.
Alan William Thom received his early education in Sudbury and Copper Cliff, was graduated from North Bay Teachers’ College and earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Laurentian University at Sudbury majoring in Psychology. He obtained his Master of Education degree from the University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, with a specialization in guidance.
Alan started his teaching career with the Scarborough Board for two years, and six years with the Sudbury Board and then as Guidance Consultant to the Nipissing Board for 23 years and ending his career at Centennial Public School. In addition, Alan and colleague John Toswell taught Parts 1 and 2 Special Education Certificate for teachers in the north on behalf of the Ministry of Education.
Alan was an avid supporter and volunteer of the North Bay Symphony Orchestra for over 30 years. He served on the original Crisis Centre Committee, the Children’s Aid Society as chair, as well as several committees at the Trinity United Church as a member of the Board of Trustees.
An avid reader, Alan would start every morning with the Toronto Star. He was a life-long learner and crossword fan enthusiast. In his youth, Alan enjoyed trout fishing, tennis, skiing, golf, as well as coaching volleyball and basketball. In his retirement years, golf was Alan’s sport of choice where he was a member of the Pinewood Park Golf Course. Genealogy and gardening became favourite leisure activities.
Alan experienced heart disease at an early age with a massive heart attack at age 53. He developed many health issues over the years and received excellent care and support from Doctors, M. De Zoysa, B. Goldfarb, L. Rosoph, N. Vijay, North Bay and N. Thangaroopan, Oncologist, Sudbury. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate and caring nursing staff and doctors of the Critical Care and Palliative Care Units at NBRHC who provided dignified care and made the family members their priority. We are especially grateful to Dr. Wendy C. Graham who was Alan’s family physician for over 40 years and provided exceptional care with her medical expertise and caring manner. A special thank you to Rev. Dr. Ted Harrison for his pastoral care. We are grateful to our family, friends and neighbours for all their prayers and support.
In keeping with Alan’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at Martyn Funeral Home on Thursday March 26 at 11 am. Visitation from 10 to 11 am. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Alan’s memory to the Trinity United Church, North Bay, the NBRHC Foundation, Crisis Centre North Bay would be greatly appreciated. Alan led his life with honesty and integrity. Alan’s service may be livestreamed by visiting the following link and registering; https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=88266918-3fb0-4916-9439-42613c7ddb44
