It is with great sadness, yet with a celebration of his life, that we announce the passing of a wonderful husband, father and poppy. He passed peacefully away on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at the great age of 90 years. Predeceased by his parents Gertrude (Madden) and John Shortall; brothers Mike, Bernard, John, Frank, Paul and Paddy; also in-laws John and Laura Tobin. Leaving to mourn his devoted and loving wife of 58 years Bridget (Bride Tobin) who was his world and whom he loved dearly. Four children that he was immensely proud of and who loved him very much; Robert (Carol) of Calgary, Elaine (Mike Cooke), Paula (Heber Halfyard) and Joanne (Al Gatherall). His seven joys, His grandchildren who he adored and who treasured his songs, stories, humour, taxi services and generosity: Krista English, Ian Power, Megan and Chelsea Shortall, Erica Halfyard, Jack and Luke Gatherall. Also leaving to mourn brothers Leonard (Peggy), Kevin (Joan); In-Laws, George Tobin (Millicent), Martin Tobin (Irene) of California, Patrick Tobin (Amy) of California. Special friends Jim and Rose Taylor, Bernice Parsons, Paul Connolly, Rose Gravelle, as well as many wonderful nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends. Resting at Caul’s Funeral Home, LeMarchant Road on Monday and Tuesday from 1 p.m.-9 p.m. Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. from Corpus Christi Church with interment to follow at The Roman Catholic Cemetery, Kilbride. Flowers gratefully accepted or donations may be made to Corpus Christi Church Community Centre, 260 Waterfordbridge Rd., St. John’s, NL, A1E 1E2 or a charity of one’s choice.
“My life’s been full,
I’ve been blessed much
Good times, good friends,
a loved one’s touch,
Perhaps my time, though not short, seemed brief,
Don’t shorten yours with undue grief,
Be not burdened with tears of sorrow,
Enjoy the sunshine of tomorrow!”
Tom, Dad, Pop, We will keep you in our hearts forever