Osborn, Thomas
Passed away peacefully after a brief illness. He leaves to mourn his loss his wife and lifelong partner of 60 years Jennie (Ward). His three daughters Thorunn Richter (Vince), Susan Osborn, Karen Gagne (Mark), Grandchildren Vincent Richter (Sarah), Kevin Richter (Jodi), Julie Richter, Desmond Osborn, Madisen Osborn-Layton, Megan Osborn-Layton and great-grandsons Liam and Jace Richter. He also leaves his sister Jennifer Hedges (Julian) and their sons, Simon, Peter and Richard Hedges.
Thomas Fairfax Osborn
Feb 25, 1935 - Feb 24, 2016
Passed away peacefully after a brief illness. He leaves to mourn his loss his wife and lifelong partner of 60 years Jennie (Ward). His three daughters Thorunn Richter (Vince), Susan Osborn, Karen Gagne (Mark), Grandchildren Vincent Richter (Sarah), Kevin Richter (Jodi), Julie Richter, Desmond Osborn, Madisen Osborn-Layton, Megan Osborn-Layton and great-grandsons Liam and Jace Richter. He also leaves his sister Jennifer Hedges (Julian) and their sons, Simon, Peter and Richard Hedges.
He was born in Swindon England and was predeceased by his only son Christopher Fairfax Osborn in 1961, sister Denise Osborn in 2001 and parents Bertha Evelyn Osborn and Charles Fairfax Osborn.
After completing his education, he served in the Royal Air Force as a SAC in Armament Mechanics.
He married the love of his life Jennie Ward R.N. in 1956. They then immigrated to Canada in 1957 and first settled in Stonewall MB where many lifelong memories and friendships began. In 1960 they moved to Laurie River MB where he began his career with Sherrit Gordon Hydro. They then moved to Pointe du Bois MB in 1965 to continue his career with hydro. In 1972 he returned to school to attend the Canadian Labor College (McGill University) which led to his career with CUPE. His CUPE career took him to Grande Prairie, AB, Edmonton AB and finally settled in Lethbridge AB. While in Lethbridge he facilitated new programs and innovations for CUPE that are still prevalent today. He remained active as an officer of the LDLC for over 20 years and then he retired. The main highlight of his career was being honored as a lifetime member of CUPE.
He expressed extreme gratitude for each and every person he met, worked with or formed lifelong friendships with and everyone who supported him through his lifelong journey.
He was a man larger than life with a booming voice who loved his family with fierceness and great pride. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him but mostly by his wife Jennie of 60 years, his daughters and their families.
A Celebration of Tom's life will be held at a future date. Flowers are gratefully declined instead please make a donation to your charity of choice.
The family would like to thank everyone that has helped since his passing each and every one of you hold a special place in our hearts.
To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
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Susan and Desmond and family, so sorry for your loss but keep the thought that he is in a better place with all who went before him. Keep your memories close and the rest of your family closer. Love lots
Jenny, Karen and family my condolences in this time of your loss. I can remember his hearty laughter, firm handshake and wonderful dinners at the house. I miss it all even now.
Jenny - I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Tom. I'll continue to keep his passion for life in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care. - Linda
Dear Jennie, Karen, & Family: It was crushing to learn of the sudden loss of Tom who selflessly, graciously, generously, & caringly gave of his time, expertise, & the fruits of his labour to others. I shall fondly remember his friendship, laughter, & unmitigated passion for the labour rights of the common working person, and for social justice: "There is a Promised Land.". I cannot ask for a better friend. With Deepest Sympathy, Peter Lee