Thomas Zander

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Tom on December 20th,

2020, at 60 years of age. Predeceased by his mother, Eileen Zander (nee Tessier) of Kamloops,

British Columbia, Tom is survived by his daughter, Erin, his father, Gary, his sister, Deanna, and

his brother, Tim. He is fondly remembered and missed by his nephew, nieces, cousins, aunts,

and uncles. Tom had great love, respect, and pride for his family.

Tom was born in Geraldton, Ontario, and raised in Manitouwadge. As a boy, Tom was involved

with both the Manitouwadge Boys Scouts and Venturers. Many winter weekends, Tom could

also be found spinning records for the Manitouwadge Figure Skating Club. In 1980, Tom moved

to B.C. to work as a mechanic, later returning to Ontario to work in the mining industry and start

a family. Tom eventually returned to B.C. with his daughter, where he found his calling as a

guard for the armoured car division of a security company. Tom was very dedicated to his job

and rarely took a day off. Throughout his life, Tom had great passion for motorcycles, and in

recent years, could be seen riding his Honda Shadow throughout the Okanagan. However,

Tom’s greatest love, pride, and joy, as a single parent, was his daughter, Erin.

Tom will be remembered for his generous spirit and his friendliness, which touched many

people. He was always willing to help those in need, while his wonderfully quirky sense of

humour made so many people smile and laugh. Tom’s bright spirit will never be replaced in the

hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Due to COVID-19, a celebration of Tom’s life will take place during the summer. A private

funeral service will be held for Tom on January 8, 2021 at Hillside Cemetery in Kamloops.