December 16, 1930 – April 2, 2025
It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mr. Thomas "Tom" Sernesky, at the age of 94, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in Thunder Bay, with his family by his side.
Tom was born on December 16, 1930, in Fort William, Ontario, to Paul and Katherine Sernesky. After graduating from high school, he moved to Terrace Bay to work alongside his brother at the local paper mill. He later returned to Fort William and began his career with Abitibi Provincial Papers, where he worked his way up to a supervisory position before retiring after 35 years with accolades for his excellent service to the company.
In 1955, Tom married his first wife, Mary (née Zawacki). Together, they raised four children and shared many cherished memories until Mary's passing in 1981 after 26 years of marriage. Years later, Tom found love again and married his second wife, Lesley (née Riddell). Their union expanded the family, welcoming two stepchildren.
Tom was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 6, and the Army, Navy and Airforce Veterans Club #257, where he served as Chairman of Entertainment. He took great pride in organizing events for fellow members and their families, including Remembrance Day ceremonies, the annual gatherings at Chippewa Park and festive Christmas parties held in the ballrooms.
A man of great warmth and generosity, Tommy had a ‘Larger than Life’ personality! He was always there when you needed him. He had a special affection for his pets and his beloved Ravens, who trusted him enough to visit each year.
Great joy was found spending time outdoors, especially tending to his garden. He grew an abundance of vegetables, including impressive potatoes and onions. Though his favourite being Gladiolas, which he proudly entered into the annual exhibition, often earning blue and red ribbons.
He also enjoyed playing with his dogs, completing or assisting friends with home projects, and hosting BBQ’s and picnics at home and in surrounding parks. He handmade an extensive fun filled backyard with physical exercise equipment for his children and their friends, which included the ‘Candy Cane House’ for his daughters, elevation bars, swings, pools, and much more. Each year he made upgrades to reflect his children’s ages and enjoyment. It was always their family and friends neighbourhood outdoor gym and recreation centre.
Tom is survived by his Daughter, Deborah; Sons, Robbie (Cathy) and John; Stepchildren, Amanda and Robert Riddell; Grandchildren, Dylan and Ryan Lundgren, Samantha Sernesky, Rory and Summer Laine; Nephews, Ron, Jimmy, and Danny Sernesky; and extended family members.
Predeceased by his first Wife, Mary; second Wife, Lesley; Daughter, Tami Lundgren; Brothers, Bill and Ed; and his Parents, Paul and Katherine (née Panas), along with many other loved ones.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and advocates of the TBRHSC, the nurses from St. Joseph’s Hospital, as well as, Archdeacon Deborah Kraft for her compassionate support and heartfelt prayers.
Cremation has taken place, and funeral services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Society in Tom’s memory.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com.
