We Remember
HARRISON, Tom
—
1960-2020
It is with broken hearts and the deepest sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Tom Harrison. Tom passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on October 27, 2020, in Kelowna, BC. He is survived by his beloved wife Lorrie (Sali); his children Nicole (Warren), Tricia, and Billy; his precious grandchildren Wilder, Layla, Jordan, Cooper, and Cassidy; his loving father Alfred; brother Douglas (Lori); mother-in-law Anne (Sali); and brothers-in-law Brian (Mona), Wayne (Laura), Rob (Rhonda), and Dale. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews, extended family members, and many many friends and colleagues who respected and loved him dearly. Tom was predeceased by his mother Delores, brother Geoff, and father-in-law Raymond (Sali).
Tom was born in Camrose, Alberta and at a young age moved with his family to Kelowna where they spent their time together enjoying the outdoors, boating, fishing, camping and skiing. In his teen years, Tom found his passion for music, playing guitar, and he became involved with the local music and band scene developing many close friends and memorable experiences. As a young man, he started his career as a Power Lineman and married the love of his life, Lorrie. After a career opportunity brought the young couple out to Sylvan Lake, Alberta, they began building their beautiful life and family, having 3 children. Tom was always involved and active in his children’s lives, coaching multiple soccer teams, taking the kids out boating, fishing, camping, skiing, and he truly cherished every moment with his kids and wife as the family grew together. After his children finished high school Tom took a transfer and moved his family back to his home town of Kelowna. As the years went on, his legacy continued to grow with the addition of their five grandchildren, and grand-puppy Jupiter, who were his very obvious pride and joy.
Aside from his family, Tom’s passions ran deep within him, he continued to love being on the water dragging a line behind his boat, or deep in the mountains fly-fishing with his boy. He remained a very active musician in the local music scene and loved playing whether it was opening up for the band Chilliwack or jamming with his buddies in the basement.
Tom had a long and successful career as a Power Lineman with Fortis. Over the years, Tom worked his way up to a management position and his great knowledge and experience in his profession was well respected and relied on by his peers. Not only was he a hard worker and the “go to” guy for many of his workmates, he took a special interest in building very strong bonds and friendships with many of his coworkers.
Tom was never still for long. He was constantly making himself and his time available for anybody who needed it. He was selfless and the kind of person people consider, not just a friend, but their best friend. He would lend his expertise and knowledge to anyone who needed a helping hand at any time and was more than happy to do so. He was a “Jack of all Trades” and passed these qualities on to his son and grandson, building or repairing things around the house or just “putzing” as he would call it. He took such pride in everything he did completing every task, whether big or small, to the best of his abilities. This is also how he loved his family – truly, fully, and with great compassion, strength, and dependability. Tom would, without a doubt, be there for anyone in any situation. His joy and sense of humour lifted everyone around him, and to be in his presence was always a pleasure. His passing has left a tremendous void and is a deep loss for his family, friends, and community. Tom was a one of a kind man that cherished his family and loved life to the fullest, and no words will ever give weight to how much he will be missed.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
It is with heavy hearts that we are sending this to you Lorrie and all the family. Tom was one of the best guys we’ve had the honor of knowing. Please accept our families deepest sympathies at this time and know that we share your sorrow!
Lorrie and Family, Tom was a gentleman and great person. He was quick to laugh and had a quiet strong presents. You, children and grandchildren were never far from his thoughts, he was a family guy. Debbie and I are very sorry for your loss, our most heartfelt condolences.
Lorrie and family
We are so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. From the time I met Tom starting the very first Lineman Rodeo there was a great work connection. Pam and I both have fond memories of our time in Kansas City with you and Tom. In my role as construction manager before I retired I had to work closely with Tom. This of course was always a pleasure as we would seem to have lots of laughs while getting the job done. I am deeply saddened that Tom didn’t get to enjoy the last job, retirement as he would have loved it.
Our condolences to you and the kids
Cyril and Pam Batch.
Our condolences to your family. Tom will always be remembered with fond memories.
Lorrie and family, we send our sincerest condolences on the loss of Tom. He was a great guy who was extremely talented and fun loving. He loved you very much and will be missed by so many. Keep your memories close as they will help you get through this very hard time❣️
Lorrie and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Tom’s passing.. May the memories of him be a comfort to you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Camping with the gang as teens at Trapper lake, Tom traded me a pound of bacon and dozen eggs for my can of pineapple. Best trade I ever made in life. Tom was asked to be the model in art class in grade 9. Giddy and giggling and slightly red faced with embarrassment he sat on a chair on a table in the middle of the room of mostly girls while they ogled him. Tom turned white as a ghost and fell off the chair and landed on the floor. He was taken to the school nurse where they decided he was OK. Tom was never pretentious or judgemental and always seemed to stay neutral but would come to the aid of anyone who needed it. Surely the amount I miss Tom must be like a grain of sand on the beach compared to those close to him. So sorry for your loss.
Dear Lorrie and Family, please accept our deepest and sincere condolences. Tom’s obituary, though it must have been difficult to write, is perfect and appreciated. He truly was a remarkable man, a fantastic and reliable colleague, and the sense of loss his passing brings, is tremendously sad. We miss him.
Great day sledding up little white area.
I am so sorry to hear the news about Tom. Condolences to the family. I worked with Tom when he was a lineman in Sylvan Lake and I was in Rocky Mtn House. He was a hard worker, but he always had time for some laughs. Used to bug him about soccer being a silly sport and he would get very defensive. I didn’t know at that time but our daughter ended up loving the sport. Sorry for your less, he will be missed.
To Lorrie and family, my condolences in Tom’s passing. My thoughts and best wishes to you all.
My deepest condolences to you family. I worked with Tom and there never was a nicer person and colleague. He will be greatly missed.
I’ll never the time he picked me up The Blackfalds Motor Inn ,,I had’nt seen him for years .. But as soon as we met up, that evening it was like i had just seen Tommy the day before.. such a kind soul.. RIP cousin
Lorie & Family , Surprised and saddened to hear of Tom’s sudden passing . I’ll always remember Tom for his love of the outdoors and his family .
Al -we are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son Tom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lorrie. I just heard about Tom’s passing last fall. I went to Apprentice Lineman school with Tom. Tom was always the life of the party. He will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences from Nanaimo.
Lorrie &family I was deeply saddened to recently hear of Toms passing Tom and I were in a lineman’s rodeo together Our team won in Kelowna and we ended up going to Kansas City as you would remember, it was great Tom and I were in Lineman school together as well in red deer I also remember our hunting trips as I know Tom love the outdoors as much as I do. Tom is a good friend and he will always be remembered.