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THOMAS SHAW Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS SHAW
Teresa
June 8, 2025
I Miss you already
Ella Kovalcheck
February 2, 2024
Have fond memories of Tom. He was a fun person to be around, and he loved his 2 children, Heather and Chris, more than anything. Dick and I always enjoyed it when we would run into Tom at one of the local restaurants in Bay Park. Can´t believe it´s been 12 years.
Tom & Marie 1970
MARIE ROBERTSON
February 27, 2012
My heartfelt condolences to Tom's daughter, son, grandchildren and all the Shaw family.
Words cannot express the shock and sadness of Tom's passing. I guess we all thought he would live forever. His smile, laughter and wit will live on in the memories we have of him. My memories of Tom take me back to our early years in the 60's & 70's. We shared so much, joy and sorrow, but through it all Tom always bounced back...larger than life as everyone says. We were both almost killed in a car crash one year and when I woke up in hospital...there he was in a wheelchair by my bed....two broken jaws, but still smiling! That was Tom. We sadly lost touch over the years....but re-connected the last few years. He told me how proud he was of his children and grandchildren. I last spoke with Tom in September when I was visiting my sister in Vancouver. He wanted me to come down for a visit to meet his family but regretfully, I was unable to go down at that time due to family commitments. It would have been nice to get together one more time......until the next time, Tom
Rest in Peace T.C. (Top Cat)
Marie Robertson (nee McDermott).
Susan Smith
February 27, 2012
Tom Shaw never forgotten the times spent in your company you had the cheekiest smile I have ever seen, the best company I have ever been in, reading your obituary is pretty moving stuff, it seems you touched the hearts of all you met. You made me feel like a MILLION DOLLARS, thanks for your inspiration. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Garry & Margaret Burleigh
February 16, 2012
Our sincere condolences to Tom's children, grandchildren and all the Shaw family.
I first met Tom at Anniesland College in Glasgow in the late 60's. Tom 's antics kept the class in stitches for hours on end. One of the best memories I have of Tom is when he was buying an MG sports car. He was short a few quid and immediately smooth-talked all the guys into donating to his cause. He even managed to talk the Prof into loaning him 10 quid. He was larger than life, always telling jokes, full of fun, winding people up in his mischievous way. By strange coincidence, during one of our usual lunchtime visits to the pub, we discovered we were dating sisters. Tom was dating Marie Mc Dermott and I was dating her sister Margaret. I was very saddened by his untimely passing. My heart goes out to his family. Bon Voyage Tom! You're just on another cruise.........p.s. you still owe me 10 bob!
Garry Burleigh, Vancouver, Canada
My memory of Tom is of him being the big brother I never had. He had that huge smile and an even bigger heart. Full of fun and laughter. Generous to a fault. I remember a Vespa scooter he bought Marie for her birthday one year. She and I went out for a spin. Marie had never been on a scooter before, never mind having a licence. We didn't even make it to the street corner before we both fell off. We limped home, knees skint, tights in tatters, Tom bellowing in laughter at the sight of us. I know you will still be looking down and smiling at your family & friends. Rest in peace Tom.
Margaret Burleigh (nee McDermott), Vancouver, Canada.
Brian Drysdale
February 16, 2012
"Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And never brought to mind
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And auld lang syne"
Tom - an acquaintance, a friend and my brother-in-law will never be forgotten.
It is a mere twenty years since I was first introduced to Tom but it took less than twenty minutes for him to make an impression. In such a short time it seemed as if I had known him all my life - his warm, cheery personality extending a welcome to me to his family circle will remain with me always.
Over the years my love and respect for Tom has grown and his passing leaves a real void. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Heather and Chris, and to his sisters and brothers.
Lynne Robertson
February 13, 2012
It was sad news to hear of Tom's passing and I send my heartfelt sympathy to all the Shaw family.
I first met Tom and the rest of the "mad mod Toryglen squad" way back in 1966, Tom became a good friend to me over the years particularly in Jersey. We will all cherish our memories of Tom his generosity, enthusiasm for life and his beaming smile will not be forgotten.
Rebecca Haehn
February 13, 2012
Just heard the sad news. What a guy! His memory will live on as he sails the open sea on his eternal cruise. Love you Tom!
February 13, 2012
Heather, I met you a few times recently when i was over holidaying with Tom. Tom and I met when we where teenagers and went out together for a while he was the kindest most generous person i knew. There will always be a special place in my heart for Tom. He will be sorley missed by everyone who knew him. My deepest sympathy to you, chris and all toms family.
Caroline Brodie...Rutherglen, Glasgow
your friend, Gina Iaria
February 12, 2012
Thomas~ our friendship was short, but I feel a life time of loss. I feel so blessed that you chose to spend time with me in the final days of your wonderful, amazing life. You are forever in my head and heart. I still hear you laugh and when you would tell me daaa! I love you and will miss you until we met up again. Save me a seat.
To Heather and Chris, I am so very sorry. He talked about you both with pride in his eyes and joy in his voice.
Jim McKenna
February 11, 2012
Tom, thanks for the memories of the parties at Cairndow and the cruise with you and Carol in 1982. Your fun loving and generous nature will never be forgotten. Your song & motto of 'Don't worry, be happy' will be forever in my heart. Love to all the Shaw family.
Michael
February 11, 2012
This is for my Uncle Tom. If its free its big T. Loved him so much.
brian
February 11, 2012
Peter Baekkelund
February 10, 2012
We wanted Tom to live forever. He lived, but not forever. We loved his company, his positive energy and optimism. His compassion and friendship was real and will beam from wherever he is and keep reaching all of us. Thank you Tom. To Heather, Chris, Katy and family – our deepest condolences.
Peter & Winnie Baekkelund and the entire family.
Peter & Bogusia Trusewicz
February 10, 2012
To the entire Shaw Family our Deepest Condolences.We are deeply sadden by your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Tom was a great man and will always be remembered.
Tom and Marie McDermott - Nov.1969
Chas Phillips
February 10, 2012
Tom on top of Ben Dubh Loch Lomond 2003 ?
Chas Phillips
February 10, 2012
Tom and Mary at Dunkeld - 2001
Chas Phillips
February 10, 2012
Tom and Chas at Dunkeld 2001
Chas Phillips
February 10, 2012
Tom and Katie at Dunkeld - new year 2001
Chas Phillips
February 10, 2012
February 10, 2012
Tom was my pal for the last 53 years and although we were a great distance apart, we always kept in touch. I feel very, very fortunate to have been his lifelong friend and I write this note with tears in my eyes but with a big smile on my face, thinking of all the wonderful times we had and the things we did to help each other over the years.
We first met around 1959, having just moved to Prospecthill Place and very quickly met new friends in Rab Calder(chopper), Jim Canning(brains), John Kealey(big J),Tam Benson(Benny),Tam Collins(Sid), Brian Logan(The accountant), Mick Kealey, Gerry Mallon and myself Chas Phillips.
We had a ball and I could write a book on all the things we did from camping on Arran, riding the scooters, getting thrown out of the youth hostel in Loch Lomond, for climbing into the girls dorm, living in the railway carriages during our "holidays to Blackpool and the north of Scotland, going to see the Animals in Newcastle, going to the Locarno and the Burns Howff, Driving to Lloret de Mar in the Triumph TR2 that we rebuilt, then on to live in Jersey, all before we hit our 20's.
Tom joined the Merchant Navy and left Glasgow, but returned regularly to visit his mum and dad, brothers and sisters and he always had a "project" to do - from renovating The house at Cairndow to buying and renovating the Reekie Linn Bar to name but a few - I could write another 2 books about this period.
Mary and I visited San Diego with our Family on a half a dozen occasions and we always had a wonderful time thanks to Tom's negotiating skills, we tried to reciprocate on his trips back home to Scotland. I include a few photos of Tom from some of these trips and one of him with Marie McDermott at my 21st.
Tom was a truly wonderful guy, exceptionally generous and thoughtful and a great engineer.
I will miss him greatly, but I think the many, many truly happy and memorable images in my mind will eventually make his leaving a little less painful.
Our thoughts go out to Christopher and Heather, he was a wonderful Dad and he was so proud of you both - also to Tom's brothers and sisters, we send our sincere condolences.
I will never forget you
From your Mate Chas
Ronnie Anderson
February 10, 2012
Big T,was no timorus beastie,oh no!built like king kong and a personality to match.the man was limitless,timeless and crammed with comedy maddness.thanks big man for all that you are a true gent.till we meet again uncle T.Big love,wee Ronnie.and to the Shaw troops i salute your strength and courage,God bless you all.x x x
February 10, 2012
Tom Shaw was an amazing man and friend. Turbocor ought to donate a compressor to someone in his memory. I knew Tom as a man with complete integrity. He always told you the trurth whether it benefitted his company or you or neither. He had old school work ethic and was always a pleasure to be around. His sense of timing and good humor always made dealing with him a pleasure. Rest in peace my friend. The world is a more efficient place because of you. To Tom's family...my deepest and most sincere condolences. God's speed during this time.
Bruce Manning
Able Engineering
Tracey McBean
February 10, 2012
Uncle Tom you will be sadly missed. You were the most loving, generous and caring Uncle that a niece could ask for. To this day I still have the beautiful dolls that you bought me from every port. I will always keep them close to my heart and will think of you always. Lots of love from Tracey x x x
Roxanne Thomas
February 10, 2012
I remember Tom not just as the life of the party, but as wanting to share his joy of life with everyone in the room. His tremendous love for all of his family will hopefully give strength during this difficult time. Much love and good wishes from Roxanne, Dave, Autumn and Lara
February 10, 2012
We wanted Tom to live forever, he chose to live, but not forever. His presence beamed compassion and love with a vibrant energy that will forever linger. To Heather and Christopher, family and friends, we send you our sympathies with gratitude for having shared your Tom with us.
Peter & Winnie Baekkelund - with our entire family.
San Diego - California
Tracey McBean
February 10, 2012
My Uncle Tom, I will sadly miss you. You were such a funny, generous loving Uncle. I still to this day have the beautiful dolls you kindly bought me from every port you visited. I will never forget you and always keep them close to my heart. You are the best! Lots of Love your neice Tracey x x x x
Amy Aitken
February 10, 2012
there's so many things I will never forget about T chiller :) but the main things were all those little smart remarks and jokes with that scottish accent :) I remember the first time I talked to tom and just looked at heather like... "? I don't know what he just said..?"
I love how he lives on in heather, and how they share such an awesome upbeat attitude.. And chin ;)
I love the memories of visiting tom with heather, on his boat, at his house and even when he rescued us in Vegas when we got kicked out of our hotel on heathers 21st :)
That sweet man will be remembered and loved forever. By every person who was lucky enough to know him.
Xo
February 10, 2012
dear heather,you dont know me im tommy collins(sid)as i was kmown in the 60,s it was a pleasure to be a mate of tom shaw,i will always remember him,god bless x
Elena Michaels
February 9, 2012
Dear Heather,
You have been in our thoughts and on our minds and we send our love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time as you share with one another your love for your dad, the memories you all have and the many wonderful times spent together. I wish you all peace and comfort.
Much love to you,
Elena
Cassie Simone
February 9, 2012
To Heather and Family, We wish you all the strength and love in the world during this time. Your love and respect for your father will get you through.
O B Gold
February 9, 2012
I only met Tom Shaw once and it was a truly joyous occasion. It was the evening of Heather's surprise birthday party and I sat right next to him. The party was raucous and the music was loud but we were able to exchange a few pleasantries. His pleasure was obvious as he was with his daughter sharing this wonderful evening.
Jerry McHugh
February 9, 2012
I will miss Tom's Generosity,Humor and Honesty
Alice Shaw/Drysdale
February 9, 2012
Big T my younger brother by 10 months was the most inspirational person that I have ever known, from growing up in Glasgow all seven of us had a very close relationship, Tom was so good to my mum and dad always treating them to a ticket out to San Diego, he always made sure they were ok. We have had years of great laughs with Tom one especially springs to mind. He was visiting us in Scotland at New Year time, he disappeared and we found him out on the lawn, glass of scotch whisky in his hand sleeping like a baby in the frosty night. We woke him and he said it was so lovely lying looking at the stars and he just fell asleep. He was a "star" to many including his children who will miss him so much as we all will, an empty space in all our lives now exists. You were loved so much Tom we will miss you forever. xxx
February 9, 2012
The Shaws were our neighbours. They lived across the street and all Tam's family were friends with mine. So the Shaws were big in our lives but there was no doubt that Tam (as I knew him) was leader of the pack! He was always a big personality. He managed to get my dad bevvied and relaxed before his xth driving test and dad passed. New Year in Glasgow with Tam and the Shaws was always a big big party time and not one new year goes by without Tam being mentioned somewhere. So from the Kealey family to the Shaw family with lots of love and great memories of your charismatic brother and our sincere sorrow at his death - may you be consoled and Tam be at peace. (Veronica Kealey, Glasgow, Scotland)
Pauline & Richard Dishman
February 9, 2012
Tom, Big T, My Brother, My Friend, Our Hearts Are Heavy With Your Loss, You Have Impacted Our Lives In So Many Wonderful Ways, We Will Miss All Of The Fun Things We Would Do As A Direct Result Of Your Passion For Life & Get Up & Go, You Lived Every Day Like It Was Your Last And Taught Us All To Do The Same, We Have Lost A One Of A Kind, There Will Never Be Another Tom Shaw
February 9, 2012
Our deepest condolences to all of the family. Our thoughts will be with you on Saturday and I'm sure you will share many great memories of Tom. Our enduring memory of Tom is his taking us to breakfast in the Hotel del Coronado...full of smiles and 'joie de vivre'.
Susan and Tom
Glasgow, Scotland
Ella and Dick Kovalcheck
February 8, 2012
Our love and condolences to Tom's family, especially his children, Heather and Chris. Tom was a very special man. We used to love seeing him when we went to dinner at Offshore, and missed him when we didn't see him. He was so full of life, and loved his family so much. His intellect,quick wit, and charming Scottish accent made him so much fun and interesting to listen to. My only regret is that we didn't have the opportunity to spend more time with him. We watched his children grow up to be wonderful, beautiful people, and Heather is dear to my heart, and a best friend to our daughter CeCe since they were in 1st grade. Tom Shaw, you will never be forgotten. You will live on in our memories for the rest of our lives.
With Love,
Cece Kovalcheck
February 8, 2012
The love of Tom's life was his daughter, Heather. The relationship between father and daughter is very special, but Heather and Tom shared an even more profound bond that I witnessed throughout my life. Best Friends. Laughter. Discipline. Laughter. Love. Heather made Tom very proud and you could see it in his eyes every time he smiled at her, (even when she didn't see).
Though he is not here in body, his spirit lives on through all of us especially, Heather. Simply put, Heather is her father's daughter. His Scottish sense of humor, his dazzling good looks, his incredible appetite for life are all things Heather inherited and more.
My name is Cece Kovalcheck...Heather has been my best friend since the tender age of 7 years old. As a wee girl, I grew up with Heather and her dad Tom. I'm so fortunate to have shared memories with them whether it was riding the "merry go round", going on family trips, or toasting at Thanksgiving.
I'm honored to have known him and grateful for what he has taught us.
Cheers to Tom! Thank you for showing us the T-Chiller way of life. You truly are unforgettable and we love you for all time.
Mario Miel
February 8, 2012
To Heather,Chris, Katy and Thomas's family. My deepest condolences. Tom was one of a kind. You will be missed my friend!
Ted and Raquel Archuleta
February 8, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Katy and all of Thomas' family members. We will always remember Thomas for his laughter, witty banter, and generosity. He left us much too soon and will be genuinely missed.
Mario Miel
February 8, 2012
To Heather,Chris, Heather and Thomas's family. My deepest condolences. Tom was one of a kind. You will be missed my friend!
Linda Millimaki
February 8, 2012
You will be missed terribly, Tom Shaw, but you sure lived your life to the fullest and left no regrets. You are so loved by so many! What a blessing you were to all who knew you!
Carolyn Shaw Smith
February 8, 2012
What can I say about my Uncle Tom? He was truly one in a million. A man who always had a smile for you and could make you laugh with his many stories from a life well lived. He was so laid back he was horizontal but always deeply cared about his family and friends. Uncle Tom was a wonderful man. I am proud to call him my Uncle and I am so glad that he was part of my life.
Love to my cousins Heather and Chris, to Katy, to my aunties and uncles and to my Dad Brian, Tom's wee brother who I know will miss him more than I can imagine x
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Big T You Will Be Missed More Than You Will Ever Know, Our Lives Will Never Be The Same Without You,
Pauline Dishman
February 8, 2012
Emily Sommer
February 8, 2012
My thoughts are with Thomas's family and his dear Katy. I will never forget the fun times with Thomas, always delighting all those around him with his humor and his zest for life. Emily Sommer
Oscar Campos
February 8, 2012
I wish I would have had the pleasure Thomas! Hugs to Katy and Thomas' surviving family.
Deborah Olliff
February 8, 2012
I didn't know Thomas very well but what I did know of him was a fun, friendly, and generous partner to my good friend Katy. He would often come by and visit Katy at work and always had a friendly smile and asked how I was. I always loved hearing the stories of Thomas' adventures. "Sweetpea", as Katy affectionately called him will be greatly missed.
Jessica W
February 8, 2012
Tom, you are such an inspiration to Brandon and your words and character will forever fill him. He is a better person because of you. You were always the life of the party, and I looked forward to every event we got to see you at. Thank you for helping with Brandons party last year, it will be an everlasting memory. I am so proud to have known you and so sad that you are gone. My heart goes out to your family and prayers for their strength. We miss you incrediby.
Tammy McConaughy
February 8, 2012
He is a man whose spirit will forever walk the halls of Alpha, an enigmatic soul and an amazing mind. Will be a long time before I can walk past his office and not here "Tamara, what ya doing" in his Scottish brogue and the smile on his face. We loved him and will miss him!
Jenny Schoone
February 8, 2012
Tom, thanks for the wonderful memories and your bright sun-shining spirit, which continues to live in your beautiful daughter I've known for almost 10 years. My heart and prayers go out to your family.
February 8, 2012
16 years with Katy, so 16 years with me, too. Friendship, help, fun and laughter. Thomas was one of a kind: Generous to a fault, funny, always ready for a party, a genius at fixing things...Thanks for being there for Katy. And for me.
Love, hugs and tears to the family, to Katy, Heather and Chris.
Betty Kellers
(Katy's Mom)
Tory Millimaki
February 8, 2012
The legendary T-chill,
You taught me life lessons I'd be lost without. I love you! I'm very grateful for the impact you made on my life and the wisdom and laughter you gave me, which are the two best gifts you can give to a friend.
I love you like my own father and miss you everyday you're gone. I'm keeping Heather close to my side and will keep her smiling for you. xoxo to the moon and back.
Jodie Ruiz
February 8, 2012
What f fitting and touching tribute to a wonderful man! Thomas, you will be missed by many! Rest in peace.
To his family, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. We are better people for having known him.
Celia
February 8, 2012
To Katy and all the other lives Thomas touched, I send my heart-felt condolences.
Grade Sherley
February 8, 2012
All who knew Tom whether briefly or for many years were touched and their lives were changed by his unique, outgoing personality.
Cathy Fillmore
February 8, 2012
Thanks for everything you did for me Big T. You taught me many things, and I'll never forget your spirit and passion. You played hard, lived hard, and loved hard. You made us all want to be better. I'll miss you.
Debra Shaw
February 8, 2012
To my beloved children Chris and Heather,
If tears could build a stairway and heartache make a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven and bring him back again.
Your father loved you dearly. May the memories of your father bring you comfort during this difficult time. I am so sorry.
Love,Mom
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