Obituary of Thomas Sury

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dearly beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend, Thomas Vaclav Sury, who left peacefully with his family by his side on June 29, 2025, at the age of 85 years.

Tom’s family was the center of his world. He always put his family first, and gave his all to support, guide and protect them. Loving and devoted husband of Marguerite Sury (nee Pacio) for 63 years. Proud father of Christine Desnoyers (Denis), Michele Sury (Luc). Proud grandfather of Nicole, Alyssa (Nick), Jean and Alex. Beloved brother of Kathryn Sury. Predeceased by his parents Frank and Kathleen Sury and brother Joseph.

Although Tom was born in Calcutta, India on November 26, 1939, his heart and roots were in the Czech Republic where he summered with his father’s family. Tom travelled from the early age of five and never stopped, visiting over a dozen countries the world over for both pleasure and work.

Tom loved all sports and was an ardent golfer and tennis player. But more than anything he loved his Airedales. In keeping with his British heritage, he had a Martin Clunes ‘like’ passion for his dogs.

Great food and country music was the way to his heart. Although he was too humble to admit it, he had a beautifully deep baritone voice that sounded particularly great on long trips in the car. He was blessed with a brilliant mind which he kept sharp through his avid reading and daily crosswords (in pen no less). While he could hold his own with small talk, his true passion was in debating current events. Not to win, but for the joy of exchanging ideas. While a strong man in every sense of the word, his disarming wit and compassionate heart led to lifelong connections wherever he went.

Following an early childhood education at the hand of the Jesuits in the mountains of Darjeeling, India, he went on to graduate from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Commerce. After graduation, Tom started his career as a flight navigator for the Royal Canadian Air Force and then began his executive career in Shell Canada. He continued on to various positions within the Public Service of Canada which eventually led to the first of his two most fulfilling positions. First, his postings with the United Nations in the International Labour Relations Organization in both Romania and Baghdad, Iraq. Second, his final and greatest achievement was his senior executive position at Canada Post where he ultimately retired as the IT Corporate Manager, Client Services and Product Development, playing an integral role in helping to both create and establish the IT Community's identity, culture, and standard of excellence.

Tom's fiery wit made us laugh to the very end. His greatest joys were his family, his friends and his dogs. In his honour reach out to those dearest to you and let them know you love them! We love you, Tom!

Tom’s family will be holding a private service in the future to honour and celebrate his life. We invite family and friends to join us in remembering Tom by posting on his memorial website. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.