Thomas Kelly Godden

Mr. Thomas Kelly Godden passed away Friday, April 16, 2021 in his home with his family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Tom was born on February 7, 1942 at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Tom met his future wife, Eileen Shonoski in 1964 and fell in love over coffee, fries and gravy at Fero’s restaurant. They got married in 1966. Together they had three beautiful children, Michael, Susan and Paul.

Tom attended Teachers College and taught his first year in Sault Ste. Marie returning home in 1966 for a position with the Catholic School Board. While teaching, he attended Lakehead University and obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Masters of Education.

He went on to teach grade school and then proceeded to run the Instructional Materials department with the Catholic School Board. Later on in Tom’s career he became a Teacher-Librarian at St. Patrick’s High School. This was the most satisfying part of his career.

Tom retired at the age of 55 and started to work at the Power Centre in the Shipping and Receiving department. He worked at the Power Centre for 10 years after his retirement and then became one of the Power Centre’s first ever retirees. In his spare time, Tom along with his entire family, spent all of their summers out at their camp at Lac Des Mille Lac.

The best years of his life were the times that he spent with his family, grandchildren and his great grandson. Every member of Tom’s family had a special place in his heart and treasured the moments with their papa.

Tom will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Eileen Godden, son Michael Godden (Jennifer), daughter Susan Di Franco (Sam), son Paul Godden (Brittany), grandchildren Rhyan and Marlo Godden, Spencer and Kierra Kielczewski, Cory Di Franco (Jolene), Derian and Matthew Di Franco, Liam and Nigel Godden and their mother Jenny and great grandson Jaxen Di Franco.

Tom was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Mamie Godden, sister Jane and Aunt Cecelia who had a special place in his heart.

Due to COVID-19, Funeral services will be held at a later date with Cremation and interment at St. Andrews Cemetery to follow.

If friends so desire, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to The Cancer Research Society of Canada or The Northern Cancer Fund.