THOMAS THOMSON (T.T.) MORRIS

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THOMAS THOMSON (T.T.) MORRIS With heartfelt sadness we announce the peaceful passing our beloved father and grandfather on Thursday, March 27, 2014. He will be forever cherished by his children: Jim (Janice), Andy, and Wendy; his pride and joys, his grandchildren: Justin (Jennifer), Jillian (Jace), Jamie, and Darcy; brothers, Norman (Della) and Gilbert (Margaret); as well as, many in-laws, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Jean, parents, sister, Mary Helen Maisy', several in-laws and a niece and nephew. Dad was born on November 12, 1917 in Leith, Scotland to William Izzard Morris and Mary Gallatly. At the age of two he came to Canada on the ship The Scotian. Dad grew up on Victor Street with his siblings and cousin. He left school early to work on the Conner's farm in Snowflake. Men's wear at Eaton's was his next job. Dad was a people person so working on the trains was a good fit. He dealt with people all day and night. His long career at CNR began in the pantry with several other positions until his retirement in 1983 from VIA Rail as a Service Manager. He survived two train wrecks. He was active with his union, holding various positions. A highlight of his career was working on the Royal Train for the Queen in 1970. Dad married the love of his life, Jean Labuik in 1950. They moved to the little white house in Fort Rouge in 1953 to raise their children and to become Mom and Pop to many children in the area. Their home became the local drop-in centre, filled with love, great food, words of advice, and treasured memories. Dad always regretted missing much of our childhood events due to working on the railroad so watching his grandchildren in their athletic and academic endeavours brought him so much pride. He loved spending time at the cottage at Grand Beach to be close to his grandchildren, family and to tinker about. His favourite spot was the back deck where he would sit and enjoy reading the newspapers. Dad was an unbelievably well read and self-educated man who had a life-long love of learning. In retirement, Dad was a founding member of the Manitoba Chapter of VIA Rail Pensioners' Association. Dad loved to organize the yearly BBQ at Rosco's farm. He was often at the station to help out with Christmas parties and Easter events. He and Mom enjoyed their weekly bowling games at Mosienko Lanes with the other retirees. Dad was always ready to lend a helping hand. To him, there was very little that couldn't be fixed - the challenge was finding a way to do it. He was well respected by all who knew him for his work ethic, brute strength, handyman skills, and his vast and extensive knowledge, which he was always willing to share. For Dad, life was about giving - to his family, friends, and others. We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives. Words cannot express our deepest gratitude to all the exceptional staff at Kildonan Personal Care Home for their wonderful care of "Grandpa". Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Tom's 96 years will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at 4:00 p.m. in the Coutu Funeral Chapel, 680 Archibald Street. If friends so desire, donations may be made in memory of Tom to a charity of one's choice. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 12, 2014