Remembering
TOM HAWKS
1954
2025
Celebrating Tom's Life
This site is dedicated to the memory of Tom Hawks, a beloved father, husband, and friend whose adventurous spirit touched the lives of many.
Thomas Holmes Hawks
(February 25, 1954 - July 29, 2025)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Thomas Holmes Hawks, at age 71, following a courageous battle with degenerative brain disease.
Tom embraced life with an unshakable spirit, guided by a personal philosophy to always say “YES.” This outlook led him on a path rich in adventure, joy, curiosity, and connection. A devoted advocate for sport and nature, Tom made lasting contributions to trail development in Durham Forest and environmental stewardship through his work with the Durham Mountain Biking Association (DMBA) and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA).
Tom forged lifelong friendships rooted in the forests of Algonquin Park and nurtured through shared experiences at Camp Ahmek, Ridge Drive, Whitney and Deer Park Public Schools, North Toronto Collegiate, Trinity College at the University of Toronto, and the Kappa Alpha Fraternity.
Tom lived boldly—on ski hills, forest trails, and waters around the world. A natural athlete, he was a graceful paddler, fearless mountain biker, elegant skier, and passionate windsurfer. In every season and setting, nature was where he truly belonged.
A dedicated educator, Tom proudly owned and operated Oxford Learning Centres for over 20 years, impacting the lives of countless students with patience, passion, and care.
Above all else, he was a devoted husband and family man who was always quick to play, suggest an ice cream outing, give a hug or share a laugh while cherishing simple times with loved ones, children & grandchildren.
Tom is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Sheila Baudisch; his children Thomson (Stephanie Gloyn), Heather (Ken Dennig), and Ian (Aspen Percival) and their mother Kate Thomson; step-daughters Audrey & Hannah Fennell, his sister Sally (Ralph Anzarouth); grandchildren Finlay, Chloe, James, Gabrielle & Brynn and his many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Tom was predeceased by his much loved parents, Gordon & Winifred Hawks.
Tom’s final resting place will be Canoe Lake in Algonquin Park—a place forever connected to his spirit. We will picture him there always, playing a game of cribbage from the stern of his canoe, surrounded by the peace he so deeply loved.
A Celebration on Life will be held on Oct 6th at 3:30pm at Trail Hub in Uxbridge. Tom’s memory will live on in every trail ridden, every student encouraged, and every ripple across Algonquin’s waters.
Tom has generously donated his body to medical research. His family deeply thanks the exceptional nurses and doctors of the Palliative Care Unit at St. Michael’s Hospital. Donations in his memory may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Tom Hawks' Celebration of LifeMon, Oct 06Trail Hub, Uxbridge
Tom Hawks Memorial Trail BuildSpring 2026 - Date and time is TBDLocation is TBD
A Journey Through Tom's Life
TOM'S ALBUM
When I learned that Tom would be joining our 2003 canoe trip down the Nahanni, then again in 2006 in Killarney Park, it truly raised my spirits. His presence was an incredible gift to the group — full of energy, curiosity, and good humour. Tom’s childlike enthusiasm, steady optimism, and generousity lifted every gathering he was part of and brought people together in the best way.
To his family, I offer my heartfelt condolences. Thank you for sharing Tom with us — I will always be grateful for the time we spent together, on the trail, on the water and across our many years on Canoe Lake.
Tom was part of the best group of young adults trying to figure out next steps in life and have fun at the same time. Mid 1970s we worked at Eddie Bauer on Bloor street. So many stories, so much laughter, terrific springboard into a life of purpose. Tom fit in like a jig saw piece with this semi mad gaggle of Toronto idiots. Then like all of us scattered to normal life but with the memory of a time without responsibility, spontaneous fun and irrelevancy. Good bye Tom (aka The Wind), and for a life well lived.
I will always remember Tom fondly from the Quetico trips at TSC and the famous H, H & H winter trips in Temagami with Tom, myself and Bob Henderson. RIP at Canoe Lake Tom
My sincere condolences to Sheila and the whole family for your loss. Tom lived life to the fullest, was an engaging conversationalist who easily made friends with all who encountered him, and will surely be sorely missed by all who knew him. His contributions to the furthering of outdoor pursuits in the Uxbridge region are immesurable, as was the enthusiasm with which he handled a McCleod on a trail build. Happy trails my friend.
Very Sad News Tom was a Good Man … Gentle and Kind … Years ago at My First Paul’s Dirty Enduro at The Ganaraska Forest (1999) I had tried a new sports drink … it did not agree with me and I bonked … actually fell asleep trailside … A Guy Gently wakes Me and asks if I’m ok … Tom Hawks with a Smile. He gave His bottle and and I completed the ride.
I’ll Never Forget Him for that Rip Tom
Sending my love and deepest sympathy. Tom certainly made the most of his life, having so many adventures and wonderful people with which to share them. My heart goes out to Sheila and her daughters; Tom's amazing kids, Heather, Ian and Thomson and grandkids; and Katie, loyal friend. May you be comforted in each others' embrace.
I worked closely with Tom and he taught me so much about empathy and kindness as a leader.
He reminded me of the importance of staying engaged with the community and looking for ways to help out others.
He helped thousands of students at Oxford and made a difference to so many families.
My deepest sympathies to Tom’s family. He will be missed.
Remembering Tom’s truly impressive brave and adventurous spirit. My deep condolences to his family, friends and the generational TSC community.
Dear Sheila and family.
We are so sorry to hear of Tom's passing and the struggle that he and by extension you all went through.
We think back fondly to our brief but very enjoyable stay at Fawks Nest near the beginning of your time there.
What a beautiful tribute you shared. We wish you much comfort and many wonderful memories that will stay with you for ever.
Tom and Ivania.
His body left us but his soul will live with us forever
His kindness was like the rain which dose not care who it falls on,
He was silently drawn by the stronger pull of what he really love,