Tom Steave Fort

I first got to know Tom through the Pho Newton restaurant where I worked many years ago. He was such a regular customer that I knew exactly what he liked to eat and how he liked it prepared. In fact, he rarely had to place an order because I would often put it in for him as soon as I saw him walk through the door. Later on, he would jokingly announce his favorite dish the moment he arrived, and it always brought a smile to my face.

As our friendship grew, Tom became much more than just a customer. One of the greatest gifts he ever gave me was his time and trust. When I was a young driver holding only my learner's license, Tom willingly sat beside me as I practiced driving throughout Surrey on weekends. Those hours on the road became opportunities for conversation, and we shared many stories about life.

Tom spoke openly about his experiences, his joys, and his struggles. He shared with me some of the pain he carried from the loss of his youngest son, Andrew, and from the broken relationships with his other children. Despite those hardships, I always admired his strength and resilience. He carried a great deal in his heart, yet he remained kind, gentle, and welcoming to those around him.

I always respected and cared for Tom deeply. I remember joking with another older gentleman who worked with me that perhaps he should move in and take care of Tom someday, so the two of them could support each other in their senior years. We laughed about it, but behind the joke was a genuine affection and concern for Tom's well-being.

Tom also gave me valuable advice over the years. As someone working in technology, he offered guidance about IT programs and career paths that would be most relevant in a changing world. His knowledge, experience, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on me.

As time passed, life became busier. Between work, family responsibilities, and studies, I no longer saw Tom as often as I once did. On the few occasions when we met again, he still seemed to be doing fairly well. He would say that he was not as strong as he used to be, but he remained himself very much.

In recent years, I often thought about visiting him again. Deep down, I knew I wanted to see him, sit down with him, and catch up on life. Unfortunately, I allowed the busyness of life to get in the way. When Will informed me of Tom's passing, I realized I had missed my final opportunity to see a dear friend. That realization brought me great sadness and is something I will always regret.

To me, Tom will always be remembered as a good-hearted, lovable, sincere, and generous man. He was someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand to those who were struggling or less fortunate whenever he could. His kindness touched many lives, including mine.

Tom, thank you for your friendship, your advice, your trust, and the many conversations we shared. Thank you for believing in me when I was young and inexperienced. The memories of our time together will remain with me forever.

May God, in His infinite mercy and love, welcome you into His heavenly kingdom and grant you eternal peace. You will remain in my prayers, and I will remember you each day with gratitude, affection, and respect.

Rest in peace, Tom. You were deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Watching funny YouTube videos and Chinese operas.