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Thomas James Henderson
Thomas James Henderson
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Thomas Henderson Obituary
HENDERSON _ Thomas James April 17, 1949 _ July 11, 2005 It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Tom Henderson, beloved husband of Marguerite, and adored brother of Janet and Marcia. Nine brothers-in-law; nine sisters-in-law;, and twenty-three loving nieces and nephews; as well as a host of lifelong friends also survive him. Tom was born in Calgary and began school in the B.C. interior. From the outset it was evident that he was a talented and gifted person excelling in both art and music. This is where he began to develop his first love, the study of English Literature, and the pursuit of excellence in creative writing. Later, he attended Kitsilano Secondary School where he attracted a large group of friends and immersed himself in sports. Tom was captain of his football team and, subsequently, a well-respected coach for the Meraloma Football Club. As a young teacher, Tom displayed his numerous talents teaching English, Band, and P.E., and sponsored a number of athletic teams. After a year sabbatical (to write a book) Tom was assigned to teach in the International Baccalaureate program at Winston Churchill. Here he continued his career as a master teacher enlightening his students in his characteristically entertaining manner. Tom had a true appreciation for every day, and gave a hundred percent to everything he did, whether he was writing literature, writing music or playing in the teachers' band. He generously wrote many songs and poems for loved ones to commemorate special events in their lives. Tom will be sorely missed by all and will remain in the hearts of his loved ones forever. "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." _ Tennyson. Memorial Services will be held at 10:00 am, on Saturday, July 16th, at the Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 3789 Royal Oak Avenue, BC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of B.C.
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55 Entries
Lois R
November 3, 2021
It has been nearly thirty years since I have taken your English Literature class at Churchill in grade 12 and I can still recall every poet from that class. You made the poets and their words come alive in every class. I still have a vivid memory of you reading Chaucer in old English - so marvelous! Thank you for showing me the beauty of stories and poems. It is one of the greatest gifts I have received. As you can see, you will not be forgotten.
Frank Sas
November 14, 2020
It’s been 15 years now and you come to mind all the time Tom.
You are talked about almost every time (weekly) when I go to visit Norman Smith in Kits.
Many times a year I will drive past the clubhouse and thoughts of you and the great times I had with you and the crew at that Mecca.
Hendy ....when you left us it hit me harder than any loss I had endured in my life.
I loved that I got to know you. You coached me at football, we socialized in the clubhouse, we did the same at your house in N Bby.We talked about our passion for music. I will always remember Club Soda (now gone) and you listening to Tower of Power for the first time live. Your home wedding to Marguerite. Watching football ( violence is the spice of life) Hendy said once after I think it was Ronnie Lott who laid out a receiver. And of course our football tour to the U K back in 1988. So many other great memories .Hendy, you were an important part of my life. Luv u always.
Timea Bekiou (Grad '87)
November 6, 2018
Mr. Henderson, when I found out about your passing I was devastated. You were a bright beacon at school and I looked forward to your classes everyday (eventhough I hated school with a passion). You brought so much joy and happiness to so many students. I thoroughly enjoyed your stories and I remember how you always used to scare us by slamming your fist on your desk to make us jump, just to make sure we were paying attention. I also remember you playing your trumpet during the annual Kits games (Go Blue Demons). You were an inspiration and you left us with indelible memories. Thank you for always brightening my days. RIP!
David R
August 18, 2016
Mr. Henderson was the most inspiring teacher I have ever encountered. I had the pleasure of taking three of his classes in Grades 11 and 12 and they were unforgettable because of him. I still think about his inspiring words on a regular basis which is why (11 years after I attended his funeral) I wanted to share this.
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Scott Steel
August 7, 2015
Yes, 10 years on there is still a whole lotta love out there for Hendy. He accomplished mega during his time, and inspired legions.
Paula Deboer
August 5, 2015
If this is the Tom Henderson who taught my English Grade 10 class at Kits in 1980, I am truly saddened. I looked you up online to fill you in on how the rest of my life turned out. You were a big part of making it great. I know now it was your signature move (lights out, blinds closed, Stephen King by flashlight ), but by God you made black print on white page come alive. You tricked this loser girl into thinking she could actually be a writer. So I did. Thank you, wonderful Mr. H. (Although I now spend a fortune on King's books!). Wish we had a chance to catch up. Thanks for your passion. It made a difference.
Violet nagy
December 27, 2010
He was a great teacher had him for one year for english
Elvira Lorie Iannitelli (Rigio)
January 27, 2009
I know this is late but I just found this today and I only heard of Mr. Henderson's or Henderson's (as he only used last names) passing on facebook a few months ago. I wish to express my condolances for his passing.
Mr. Henderson was a exceptional teacher. I took his English Novels class in grade 12 and he taught me to love writing and to overcome my fear of oral reports. Everyday he had us write a short essay for 15 min. and then another 15 min. to continue our novel which we finished at the end of the semester. I still have my novel. It was a great experience.
He also loved to tell us scary stories and would shut the lights and blinds and make us put our heads down while he would read to us from his favorite scary stories and of course slam his hand on the desk at the end to watch us jump out of our skins, what a time. I loved his story he told us of how him and his friend put a tarantula in a bag and hung it from the door to scare the pants off his sister and succeeded. Sorry Tom's sister but we couldn't help but laugh. He always told funny and great stories. I have been speaking his glories for years but I was so saddened when I read it on a kits facebook group. what a shock.
Thinking of you always
(Fiat Lux) grad of 81
Tony R
January 21, 2007
As a Kitsilano Secondary School
graduate, I was both shocked and
sadden to learn the passing of a
great Vancouver teacher.
Anyone who's had Tom Henderson as a
teacher knows how very talented he
was. I can still remember him
telling us studients to "never snow
the snowman". I remember him in
acting in school plays...how great
he was at reading books to us all!
He also played the musical
instrument we all know. And in 1995,
both he and Giovanna Bombino
beautifully researched and narrated
the "Kitsilano 75Th Anniversary
Video Documentary" (Hail Kitsilano,
looking back 75 years 1920-1995)
Pub. May 1995. He did such an
excellent job at it that he sounded
very much like Bill Good!
Yes, it's a very big loss to Kitsilano and all who have known
him!
Paul Rumohr
December 29, 2006
They were only words on paper until you came along and showed me what they meant, friend.
Where you are now, there is no silence, there is no darkness, there is no sadness.
Not if you are there.
Stephen Mikicich
October 5, 2005
I was very surprised and saddened to learn of Tom's passing. Firstly, my condolences go out to his family and friends.
When I look back upon the many great teachers I've had in my life, Tom Henderson stands out as one of the finest. I was a student of his in band, stage band and P.E., but it was as an English teacher that he really affected me. He inspired me to think creatively and to express myself in words. He instilled in me a love of writing and the English language, which I carry to this day.
The world is a better place for having had a Tom Henderson in it, and he leaves a lasting legacy in the many people whose lives he has touched.
When I think of him, I see him standing at the front of the classroom holding a copy of "The Catcher in the Rye," making me feel competent playing a team sport, or conducting our Grade 9 band, as we perfrom the theme from "Charlie's Angels."
Thank you for making such a positive impact on my life!
Holly Varner (Kitsilano 1983 - 1987)
August 24, 2005
My deepest condolences go out to all of Tom's family and friends. He was and still is my mentor. I first met Mr. H. in grade 9 English. Unfortunately, for Mr. H., I was slotted into his English and Band classes every year up until I graduated. The poor man could not get rid of me. He was the most positive being in my life during those trying adolescent times. He made me want to work harder and helped guide me through some very tough experiences. He had the kindest soul (even when he MADE me play my trumpet solo) and I have and will always remember his words of encouragement when I need to face challenging moments.
Mr. H. you have touched my heart and mind in ways you could never have imagined. You made me a better person. Most importantly, you have taught me I cannot and should never try to snow the snowman!
George Stephens
July 23, 2005
My wife and I were visiting our daughter in Calgary when I got a message from Ken Reynolds that Tom had died. I was saddened to hear it, it is always a bit of a shock when someone you know passes on, particularly someone who was as much of a presence as Tom was. I always thought of him as enthusiastic, whether you were debating with him, or he was putting a choke hold on you! The world is a little darker now! Marguerite, I am sorry I couldn't make the service, I hope Ken had a chance to pass on my sympathies.
George Stephens (Kits Secondary, 1965-1995)
Todd, April, Amber & Kayla Trenaman
July 22, 2005
Our condolences to the Henderson family. I had the privledge of playing Loma ball for Tom in '82 and went on the Last Hurrah tour to the UK. What an honor to have been able to call Tom my friend. He truly touched my heart.What a great example of the type of man we aspire to be.
Peace be with you.
Ralph, Karen, Dennis, Erich & Kerstie Dittmann
July 19, 2005
We would like to send our condolences to the Henderson Family on their loss.
Tom was a very special person to a great many people. I believe that one of the best things that happened to me, as well as many others during High School is when Tom joined the staff at Kitsilano in the mid 1970's. When it came to sports, he was very driven, passionate and wanted each of us to realize our potential. He believed in us and more importantly he made us believe in ourselves. How? With one word "SNOOSE" to give the extra effort even though you want to quit. He was preparing us for what lay ahead in life, though we did not know it at the time.
Tom you were a wonderful teacher, coach, mentor and friend.
Thank you
Lauren Milden
July 18, 2005
My most sincere condolences to the family of this great man. He was without a doubt one of the most inspiring teachers that I, and most of my peers, have ever had the privilege of being taught by.
Linda D'Adamo
July 18, 2005
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Henderson family. Hendy was, and always will be very special in my heart. I was one of his band students when he began his career at Kitsilano. I also had the good fortune to know him through the Meralomas. It was his infectious smile and generosity of spirit that won him my trust, loyalty, and love. The sparkle in his eye and the often used "You can't snow the snowman", have stayed with me all these years. I'll miss him.
Mike Yannacopoulos
July 18, 2005
Snoose and Coco-bonk, are words that will be in my vocabulary forever and will always remind me of Tom when I use them. Coach Hendy taught me to believe in myself and to give 100%, while being my football and wrestling coach at Kits, and I believe this has had a lasting affect on my life. My deepest sympathies to Tom's family for your loss and hope that knowing the many ways this man has touched so many people's lives, will help get you through this painful time.
Eileen Campbell
July 18, 2005
Tom, I enjoyed watching you play for the Meralomas and remember you at the weekly victory parties, full of fun and fire. Your enthusiasm was boundless.
The news of your passing came while on vacation, so sad and hard to accept despite the many years since our last visit at my former husband, Nick’s, restaurant where we arrived at solutions for many world problems, unless we disagreed.
Don’t think that because you made this untimely transition you’ve had the last word.
Kevin Graeme
July 18, 2005
Tom had an immense impact on my life. His intensity as a teacher's aid and member of the late 70's Physical Education Staff (Bill McCann, Bob Umemera, Stan Lawson and others) were huge contributors to my development as a "team" player.
Tom was a multi-faceted person with broad interests. When it came to football - "snoose" was the only approach - all out dedication or just don't bother.
Tom's influence had two totally opposite affects on me personally. After skipping practice one day, he refused to let me play football in my senior year which was a huge disappointment. I still remember the tear filled conversation on the stairs of the cafeteria... but his decision drove me to join the Meralomas and find a measure of success in the club that has served me well my entire adult life.
Tom was a great example to me in how to "live life to the max".
Sarah Starling
July 17, 2005
My most sincere condolences. Tom was a great man and a terrific teacher.
HOLLY RUNZER
July 17, 2005
Thomas.....you were a joy to know and be with.I will miss your radiant smile and loud laughter.You were always the life of the party at every New Years at my sister's house.You will be greatly missed.Archie and Edward will keep you entertained, that is for sure.
Cheers ! till me meet again.Holly.
Gerald Li
July 17, 2005
Mr. Henderson had to be the best English teacher I've ever had. He taught me to appreciate the many subtleties of English literature and truly brought his passion for the subject to every single class.
Rest in peace, Mr. Henderson.
Nancy Farenholtz (Dittmann)
July 16, 2005
I am so sad in hearing the passing of my favourite teacher. English class (by my surprise) was the one class I made sure I didn't miss. He made learning fun and I know I speak of all students who were taught under him. Whenever I tell old stories of my days at Kits High, he is always among them. He will be sadly missed by all.
Thanks Mr Henderson, for being part of my life.
See you later!!
Julia Chen
July 16, 2005
Thank you, Mr Henderson, for being an inspiration to me and to many others. I'm truly thankful I've had the chance to be taught by such a wonderful English teacher, with such great love for the language. Your commitment and care for us will always remain deep in my heart. I have learnt a lot from you. God Bless.
Joanna Reeder
July 16, 2005
Tom Henderson was a man of boundless passion and integrity. Along with a multitude of others, I have lost a dear mentor who brightened the lives of all he touched. He ran a classroom as he lived his life: with fire, laughter, and genuine insight. To Mrs Henderson and the long list of family in friends to whom he was held so dear, I offer my sincerest condolences; i hope happy memories of this great guy soon overshadow your grief. Mr. H- i love you and miss you and i'll see you when i see you.
Rocio Venida
July 16, 2005
Mr. Henderson was one of those unique teachers who made you look forward to going to class. He inspired and challenged us, but injected humour during those two IB English years (I still wonder who Bob the Builder is!) I send my thoughts and prayers to the Henderson family. He was a wonderful man.
Alexander Yan
July 16, 2005
Mr. Henderson, you've taught me the meaning of understanding and loving a language. Without your guidance i wouldnt enjoy learning english half as much. I remember like yesterday when you said a simple "hey" to me in the halls. That image will forever be in my memories. Wherever you may be, i will never forget the many life lessons you taught. Your always going to be the best english teacher i have ever had. You are truly the best!
July 16, 2005
Marguerite our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Tom, you lived life more fully than anyone we have ever known. You never wasted even a minute, everything you did had a purpose, a meaning, a story. You gave so much to so many and you asked so little in return. We will miss you my friend, my coach, my mentor.
May you rest in peace.
Rob, Marisa, Haley & Sam Twaites.
Mr. Henderson, the best teacher to have ever taught.
July 15, 2005
Tej Paul Dhaliwal
July 15, 2005
Words cannot describe the loss that has befallen us. Mr. Henderson was the greatest teacher I have ever had the privelege of being a student of. His teachings were inspirational, intelligent, and full of passion. It is with great sorrow that the one person I would never have forgotten from Winston Churchill, is the one person whose Guest Book I am now signing. I will remember you Mr. Henderson, from our arm wrestling matches in class, to your passionate teachings and your gracious advice. GOD must really want his Saints back, for there is no other reason for you to have left us so soon. Rest in Peace, and may you find happiness wherever your soul may be.
John Grywinski
July 15, 2005
Hendy, teacher, bandleader, coach, teammate, and dear friend. Your appreciation for life, laughter, love, and friends is, and will continue to be an inspiration to all of us that you have so deeply touched. Hendy, save a round of light beers for the boys! Rest in Peace.
Paul Browning
July 15, 2005
I was a student of Mr. Henderson's in IB English 11 and 12. He was a committed, helpful, and insightful teacher. Truly, this is a tragic loss.
Ying Duan
July 15, 2005
The one IB teacher whom I fully respect and love. No words, tears will do.
David Lu
July 14, 2005
If I should describe the man in one word, I would choose the word passionate. He always says that life is either an exciting adventure or nothing at all, and I am sure that his life must be the former. At the same time that I weep for the loss of a great teacher and a great man, I am also glad to think that his life must be truly meaningful and fulfilling.
Riley Louie
July 14, 2005
A great light has gone out from this world, but I'm sure it still shines just as strong in the next. Dear Mr. Henderson, you were an inspiration to us all, and I know you're still living your life, after death.
Danny Chen
July 14, 2005
Up until now, I still cannot believe that Mr. Henderson has passed away. Whenever I saw his picture, drops of tears uncontrollably kept rolling down my face. Mr. Henderson was one of the greatest English teachers I've had so far. He was humorous and inspiring. Somewhere deep inside his bulky body hid a kind and friendly heart. I'll never forget about him. At last, I just want to say to Mrs. Henderson and other family members that you must not be too sad for Mr. Henderson's passing. An optimistic person like Mr. Henderson wouldn't want to see everyone crying for him. Just remember, he will always live in our heart, in our memories.
Adam T
July 14, 2005
Thank you so much for the two years of effort in teaching everyone I.B. English :). I'll miss you for all the good times, and a bit of the "Hard Times". I hope you will remember me about my sense of humor, not so much my terrible handwriting. I'm sure you've inspired many of us to appreciate the English language, particulary vocabulary. Without you, my two years of high school English would have been monotonous. I wish the best for you, your family and everyone else. I will continue to read and appreciate the English language, scrutizining at vocabulary in particular. Now we know what's what - we really do. Hopefully, we will all see you when we do.
Charlie Hsu
July 14, 2005
It was a joy playing jazz with Mr. Henderson. I could always count on him to step in and rescue me when I screw up my solos. Sad to hear the passing of such a charismatic man. Memories of him will not be lost. Thank you Mr. Henderson.
Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Cameron McFee
July 14, 2005
Marguerite,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Tom meant the world to me and I believe he knew that. He solidified and expanded the values taught to me by my parents. For that I am forever grateful. Marguerite, I hope that in time you can look back on your lives together, cherish your special moments...smile, and laugh.
Ruhail Kohli
July 14, 2005
Words cannot describe what an awesome man Mr. Henderson was! He was a great inspiration to me and to all of his students. It was a huge shock for me to hear that Mr. Henderson is no more. I am sure I speak for the whole class of 2005 when I say that he was one of the greatest teachers of all time. Mr. Henderson, you will be sorely missed. See you when i see you !
Earl Krieger
July 14, 2005
It is sad to see a person so intelligent, so inspiring, and so loving being taken so soon. It is a shame that he did not get to reap his benefits of retirement. I speak for his class of 2005 when I say that we'll never see another great teacher like him in our lives. He was a true inspiration
Reg, Clara and family Reinhardt
July 14, 2005
Our thoughts are with you all -Marcia, Janet and Marguerite; Mark Cameron and Heather. Although we never met Tom - I sure felt like I knew him through Marcia...
Andrea Papp
July 14, 2005
Mr. Henderson made learning a joy. He was a gifted teacher with an inspirational passion for literature; and a wonderful person with the same passion for life. His spirit lives on in every life he touched and every student he taught.
Ioana Stefanovici
July 14, 2005
I was shocked to hear such sad news from my classmates. Only a few weeks ago I was on the phone with my best friend, and I could only taste from her beautiful words how touching his speech was for their IB Graduation. Our entire generation loves him so!
Mr. Henderson was my IB English teacher for Grade 11 at Sir Winston Churchill Secondary and has been and will always be one of my favourite people that I had the honor to meet in my life (and moving from a country to another and now cities - to Winnipeg - should say a lot). Mr. Henderson, I am so glad I had the chance to come by and see you before the Christmas break and remember we met at Sarah Brightman's concert?
I am so very sorry I cannot be there for your memorial service, together with all those that love you. My sincere condolences to his wife and his family. "See you when I see you", Mr. Henderson!
Ken Pudlas
July 14, 2005
Dear Marguerite (and family).
Please accept our deepest sympathies on the untimely passing of Tom. We cannot say we know how you feel - but we do share your grief.
May you find the Source of peace in this difficult time.
Love,
Ken and Gabi Pudlas
Viki Beretanos
July 14, 2005
As a childhood and good friend of my brother's, Nick, I have fond memories of Tom at our house while I was growing up and at high school. Thank goodness for the memories! I will always smile when I remember Tom. My brother and I are greatly saddened and we send our deepest sympathy to all the family members for your tragic loss.
Daniel Chorney
July 14, 2005
Mr.Henderson was an inspiration to all of us as a teacher, and as a truly great man. My thoughts and prayers are with the Henderson family, and I am truly sorry for your loss.
Gianna Bowley (Barone)
July 14, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss.
The Barone Family of Kitsilano
Bob Dagg
July 14, 2005
A truly inspirational teacher, leader & coach. My thoughts & prayers go out to all of his friends and family members. We will never forget you Hendy, and your stories will live on forever.
Ray Crawford
July 14, 2005
Marguerite my thoughts and prayers are with you.I love Tom Henderson, Hendy was a GOOD GUY and #72 will live forever in my heart. Peace be with you my brother. Love Ray
Anne-Marie Gromer
July 14, 2005
Marguerite,
Words cannot express the sorrow in our hearts now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Know that Tom held a special spot in a great many hearts, and will always live on in them.
Your Friends,
Anne-Marie, Yorg, Ben, Alex, Adam, & Matthew
Stievey Gladwin
July 14, 2005
My dear, sweet friend, I will miss you forever and think of you often.
Scott Steel
July 14, 2005
It was with profound sadness that I heard of Tom's passing. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Marguerite, and the entire family. Tom was clearly a renaissance man who touched many thousands of lives. I remember Tom as a mentor, and a caring teacher who had the most sincere way of showing everyone around him how much he cared. It is with fond memories that I recall my time spent with Tom and Bob Uymemera at Kits, and our subsequent association at the Meraloma Club. Words can not express how honoured I was to have known Tom, and how much respect I have for the man that made the most indelible effect upon my life.
"SNOSSE FOREVER!"
Irene Abbott
July 14, 2005
Thinking of you and your family at this sad time
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