Throughout his life, Tom wore many hats - son, husband, father, grandfather, big brother, friend, printer, union leader, champion cyclist, wrestler, chess-player, sailor, skier, traveller, reader, poet, gardener, supporter of good causes, environmentalist. He was self-taught.

Tom grew up in the throes of the Great Depression. His early years were spent in Toronto's Don Valley, a veritable paradise with swimming in the summer, skiing and skating in the winter. There, he came to appreciate the natural world, learning the names and ways of the valley’s trees, plants and creatures.

Early on, Tom developed a deep love of reading, music, poetry and art - and a sense of adventure.

Cycling was his passion. A member of the Bloor Cycling Club and the East York Wheelmen, Tom competed in long-distance races. He set a North American record in New York by becoming the first person to complete 25 miles in under an hour.

Tom excelled in his chosen trade as a printer and quickly developed a strong social conscience. He served as Chapel Chairman (president) for his local of the Toronto Typographical Union, advocating for his co-workers.
One of Canada’s oldest trade unions, it made significant contributions to more humane working hours and better working conditions, but not without the tremendous courage of its members. The printers’ early struggles led to breakthroughs like the legalization of trade unions, the nine-hour work day and the celebration of Labour Day. Tom was proud of his union’s contributions to Canadian society.

In 1956, Tom set off to see the world on his bicycle, travelling from Nova Scotia to London, Scotland, France, Amsterdam, Germany and Denmark. On the voyage out, he met the love of his life, Lillian. They were married in London, England and settled in Scarborough.

Tom was an avid, life-long sailor. He and Lillian cruised the many ports of Lake Ontario in their sailboat, Satin Doll. When he retired, Tom sailed across the ocean from Whitby to Bermuda with his brother Jim.

Tom was known for his kindness, generosity, sense of humour and devotion to family. He is pre-deceased by his beloved wife of sixty-nine years Lillian Pascoe; parents Ernest and Dorothy Pascoe; siblings Jim, Bob, and George.

Tom is dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his daughter Laura Pascoe (Dan); grandchildren André Fast (Francis) and Madeleine Fast (Luke); siblings Elinor Graham (Jerry) and David Pascoe (Heather).

Thanks to Annalie, Serha, Annette, and Viva for their kind care.

Celebration of life: Saturday July 4th at The Simple Alternative (1057 Brock Rd, Pickering). Visitation 1 p.m., Service 2 p.m., followed by a reception.

Donations can be made in Tom's memory to the Whitby Abilities Centre or the Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund.