With love and pride we remember the full and wonderful life of Tom Burns, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 78. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Tom’s warmth, strength and love touched everyone who knew him.
Tom is predeceased by his parents Jim and Elsie (Mackie) Burns and daughter Krista Burns (Ray St. Louis). Left to mourn are his wife of 55 years Carol (Thorpe), daughter Jennifer Burns, son-in-law Gaetan Lemieux, grandchildren Daniel Burns and Elisabeth Lemieux and great-granddaughter Aliyah, siblings Edith (Grant, deceased) Sutherland (Thunder Bay), Jim (Rowena) Burns (Perth, Australia) and Rob (Dorothy) Burns (Okotoks, AB) and many nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by close friends Jane and Dave Pelletier, whom we thank for their unwavering support over the last 40 years.
Born in Geraldton Ontario, Tom joined the RCMP after graduating from high school and proudly served for 36 years, followed by 10 years at Transport Canada (National Security). Having lived in Kemptville, Sault Ste. Marie and Montreal, his last transfer was to Ottawa, where he retired. In his early years he was a member of the Kemptville Kinsmen Club, and later the Kemptville Lions Club. He relished family time – skiing, snowmobiling, biking, boating, camping, fishing and teaching family and friends how to fish. For 25 years he enjoyed spending his summers at Rideau Mac Resort on Big Rideau Lake, where he formed lasting friendships.
Tom knew Carol was “the one”, having proposed after only 6 weeks of dating. Married in 1969, they welcomed twin daughters in 1971.
Tom was incredibly proud not only of his girls, but also of his grandchildren and their accomplishments, supporting and encouraging them in their journey to adulthood.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), for a Memorial Service on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 1 p.m. in Beechwood's Sacred Space, followed by a Reception. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation or the Ottawa Food Bank.
Digital Guestbook
The Mackies
Peggy Lloyd
Carol and Family and Friends. We were so saddened to learn of Tom's unexpected passing. Just heartbroken for those of you who loved him. Already missed at RideauMac, even more so now as memories are laden with this sadness. Sending you a warm embrace. Peggy and Eugene
Myra Mackie Coons
We are so sad to hear of cousin Tom’s passing. The last time I saw Tom was at a wonderful gathering held at Uncle Bruno and Aunt Bernice Mackie’s condo in Thunder Bay. I will always remember his laugh. He will be missed by many people. Sending condolences , love and hugs. Myra and Michael
Jeff/Colleen Craig & Family
Tom was such a down to earth person. He will be missed by all
Roger and Mary L'Heureux
I worked with Tom at the Drug Enforcement Branch, HQ from 1975-78. He was a great co worker and took great pride in his duty. We had a great time working and socializing at the HQ Sgt. Mess for happy hours. He bragged about his wife and family. I am a better person for working with Tom. Our toughts and prayers go out to his family. God Bless.
Wes Clark
Sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. We will remember him as always being at Carol’s side and for his love of his family, not to mean toon his many contributions to the purchase and administration on Rideau Mac Resort. On behalf of the Clark family, Lorraine and the many others whose lives he touched, please accept our condolences.
Al (Albert) Butt
Carol and family.
I was shocked to hear of Tom's passing. Those who knew Tom as I do , will remember him as a good friend with kindness, loyalty and willing to help anyone in need. Tom and I worked together on the "A" Division Drug Squad and he was a prime example of a loyal co-worker. I wish I had known you ,Tom and family retired in Ottawa.
Take care and may God bless.
Al
Grant & Arlene Mackie ~ Nakina ON
Sincere condolences to Carol, Jennifer, Edith, Jim, Rob and their families.
Tom’s love for his family and dedication to serve Canada is to be admired and remembered. 🇨🇦
Sandra Miller Randa
So very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I also grew up in Geraldton and attended both elementary and high school with Tom. He was a great guy, everyone’s friend. During his career, he was posted to Sault Ste. Marie, giving us an opportunity to meet his family and socialize. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carol & Jennifer and family.
Carolyn & Rob Percival and Family
We were so very sorry to hear about Tommy’s passing. We hope you find peace and comfort in the many happy memories you have of time spent together and adventures shared over the years. Our sincerest condolences for your loss.
So many memories of a cousin, friend and great person. He will be sorely missed. Love, Gerry and Liz