Obituary of David (Tom) Thomas Griffiths

April 5, 1950 – Calgary, Alberta

November 11, 2022 – Calgary, Alberta

David Thomas (Tom) Griffiths, beloved husband of Janet Mary Griffiths (nee Irwin), of Calgary, AB passed away on Friday, November 11, 2022, at the age of 72 years.

Born in Calgary, AB on April 5, 1950, the second of two sons to Philip and Hannah Griffiths, Tom was raised in Calgary and the surrounding Foothills area. After completing high school, Tom attended the University of Calgary, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. A proud Calgarian, Tom spent his 37-year career serving the City of Calgary in various roles. It was there that he met many of his lifelong friends, including the love of his life, Janet. Tom and Janet were married in Calgary in 1985, and soon afterwards started their family.

Tom accomplished much in his life. A dedicated husband, father, and friend, Tom enjoyed success in his career, and was beloved by all who knew him. Upon retirement, Tom spent much of his time caring for his family farm in the Foothills of Alberta. Tom loved to spend his summers camping with his family throughout western Canada. An avid reader, Tom also enjoyed working with his hands, and was often found building something around his home, in the yard, or at the family farm. Tom had a warm kindness for his feathered and furry companions too. Tom’s pride and joy though, were his grandsons, Oliver and Dawson Griffiths; nothing brought Tom more joy than watching his grandsons laugh and play.

In 2019, Tom was diagnosed with corticobasal degeneration, a rare neurodegenerative disease which progressively deteriorates movement and speech. Sadly, there is no known cause of, or cure for, corticobasal degeneration. With the exceptional love and support of his family, and particularly of his wife, Janet, Tom was fortunate enough to spend his final years in the comfort of his own home. Despite his condition, Tom displayed immense strength and courage to the very end. He was a fighter who managed to put a smile on everyone’s faces no matter how he might have been feeling.

Along with his loving wife, Janet Griffiths, Tom is survived by his three children, David Griffiths (Alexandra), Andrew Griffiths (Christy), and Elizabeth Griffiths (Zachary); and two grandchildren, Oliver and Dawson Griffiths. Tom is also survived by his brother, Robert Griffiths (Darlyne) of Nanaimo, BC, and by numerous and cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Philip and Hannah Griffiths (nee Davies); his aunt Blodwen Davies, and his uncle David Davies, all of whom emigrated from Wales in the United Kingdom to Calgary and the surrounding area.

Tom’s family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Dawn Pearson at the Alberta Neurological Centre, who provided ongoing care and diagnosis throughout his condition. The family also extends a special thank you to his family doctor, Dr. Kristina Quan, who delivered excellent ongoing support to Tom and his family. Tom’s family sincerely thanks his personal caregiver, Sheeba Massey, who became just like a family member in a short time.

A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Sunday, November 20, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. Tom’s family requests your presence from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Sundance Lake Residents Association Banquet Hall (63 Suncrest Way SE, Calgary, AB). A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Family and friends who are unable to attend the Celebration of Life in person are invited to join Mr. Griffith’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Tom, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.

Click here to view the service folder for Tom Griffiths

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