Thomas Charles Beer
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Thomas Charles Beer. He passed peacefully at home on January 30, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Kenaston, Saskatchewan on February 28th, 1933, Tom is survived by his brother Norman, sister Joan, many nieces, nephews and his loving wife Gwyneth of over 60 years. Together Gwyn and Tom raised four children Shonnet, Kim, Jeff and Julie, eleven grandchildren & six great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents Alfred and Florence, his brother Alfred and his sisters Florence and Mabel. Tom was a long-standing resident of Chilliwack, moving to Rosedale at age one and in his teens back to Chilliwack. He attended Central Elementary and Chilliwack High, leaving in grade ten to work the family farm. Later he moved to Hope and then to Quesnel to work in the sawmills. In 1956 he moved back to Chilliwack to join the City's Public Works Department, and also began his career with the Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter. In 1971 Tom became Chilliwack's first full-time fire chief. He retired in 1993 after 37 distinguished years of service to the City of Chilliwack. Tom held the office of Evangelist in the Community of Christ Church. He was the pastor for many years and an active supporter of the church camp ground at Samish Island, Washington where he spent many summers with his family. Tom enjoyed his time at home helping friends and neighbours, doing woodworking projects, gardening, and playing cards. A more helpful, loving, caring man would be hard to find and he will be missed by many. Celebration of Life to be held February 11, 1:00 pm, First Avenue, Christian Assembly, 46510 First Ave. Chilliwack, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations to Samish Island Endowment fund or Chilliwack Firefighters Charitable Society are appreciated.