September 1945 – October 17, 2022
Thomas (Tom) Edmund Harrison passed away peacefully in his sleep October 17, 2022. He was born on September 8, 1945 in Calgary, Alberta. At the age of 15 he embarked on a career, first with CP Rail and then in construction, that would span 5 trades and 4 decades. He left his mark on many of the buildings in downtown Calgary with his welding and pipefitting. He became a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 496 in 1976. In the 1980s he moved into a different kind of construction with the Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology in Drumheller, Alberta. He welded the frames of the dinosaurs in the main exhibit hall with his greatest achievement being the Tyrannosaurus rex. He continued to work in his various trades until his retirement.
In 1970 he met the love of his life Diane. Their romance began at Lloyd’s Rollercade after she wiped out and broke her wrist. Four months later they said “I Do” in Calgary. In 1978 Tom moved his family to Rockyford. He was a member of the Freemasons and volunteered around the town. In 1990 he moved with Diane and Heather to Bassano where he retired in the early 2000s. He volunteered with Citizens on Patrol and later joined the Bassano Damsters. He was always available for coffee, a laugh, and a story or stories.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Diane, son Tom (Kathy), and daughter Heather (Wade) of Calgary. His biggest pride and joy were his three granddaughters Avril, Lily and Adriana. He is also survived by his nephew Troy Evers (Dayna) and their children Crawford, Waryk, and Aldawna of Condor, Alberta.
He was predeceased by his parents Crawford and Margaret Harrison of Calgary and sister Dianne Evers (D’Arcy) of Rocky Mountain House.
We would like to thank the physicians, nurses and unit staff on Unit 37 at the Foothills Medical Centre and Unit 3 East at the Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre for your compassion and care over the past few months. We would also like to thank the staff at the Playfair Lodge in Bassano, Alberta for your kindness and care while he was a resident. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the charitable organization of your choice
2 Comments
Big hugs to Diane, Heather and Tom. My deepest condolences to each of you and your families. May your memories give you strength through the days ahead. With love, Joyce Hutchison
My condolences to the family. Had some great times with Tom and Diane while we lived in Rockyford. Was fortunate enough to hear many of Tom’s stories. Tom was a great guy – may he rest in peace.