It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Cheredaryk, beloved husband, father, and Papa, on November 21, 2023, with family by his side. Tom was born in Fort William on February 2, 1937, and spent his formative years growing up in the East End. Known for his kindness, caring, and gentle nature, Tom was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In 1955, Tom began his career with the Department of Highways, where he met the love of his life, Marjorie. They married in 1962, starting a beautiful life together and welcomed three daughters- Terri, Cathy, and Wendy.
A man of simple pleasures, Tom found immense happiness in spending summers at Whitefish Lake with family and friends. He enjoyed actively participating in the community and was a member of the Elks Athletic Association for over 40 years. In 1990, Tom welcomed the birth of his first grandchild just before concluding his 36-year career with the Ministry of Transportation the following spring. This marked the beginning of his most cherished chapter of life, as "Papa."
Tom found great pride and joy in his four grandchildren Courtney, Spencer, Tyler, and Katie. Papa adored the many years that his home was filled with love and laughter as his grandchildren grew up. Papa was known for his commitment and the countless hours he spent cheering on his grandchildren, rarely missing a game. Tom loved his family dearly, and was happiest when he was surrounded by them, sharing a delicious meal and lots of laughs. It was a well-known rule in the family that if he responded to your joke with the infamous “silent chuckle”, that it was officially approved by Papa. Tom was also eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild in March.
In recent years, Tom enjoyed passing time just “going for a drive” and taking short road trips to Grand Portage and Fortune Bay, with his beloved wife and daughters. Tom and Marj enjoyed their yearly trips to Ingersoll to visit their daughter and son-in-law. For the past 57 years Tom and Marj have lived in their Northwood home and wish to extend sincere thanks and gratitude to their wonderful neighbours, Peter and Heather Karpowich, and Gordy and Erin Moro. Tom appreciated their generosity and willingness to always lend a helping hand, especially their quick attention to ensuring that his driveway was always cleared of snow in the winter.
Tom was predeceased by his parents Alec and Francis Cheredaryk, sister Mary (Julian) Shymko, brother William (Shirley) Cheredaryk, sister Elizabeth (Arthur) Ilkka, sisters-in-law Pauline (Michael) Geravelis, and Lloy Hauth.
Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife of 61 years, Marjorie Cheredaryk, daughters Terri (Brent) Garbet, Cathy (Scott) Eades, Wendy (Sonny) Randle, and grandchildren Courtney (Max), Spencer (Caroline), Tyler (Paula), Katie, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family service will take place at a later date. Tom will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery. We wish to extend thanks to the staff at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, as Tom always spoke highly of the care and compassion he received. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Northern Cancer Fund, or a charity of your choice are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the Blake Funeral Chapel.
