....until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his
hand.
Dr. Thomas Christopher (T.C.)
Farrell (Sligo)
Nov. 25, 1924 - April 14, 2012
A rich life to be celebrated.
T.C. Farrell was born and raised in Sligo, Ireland. As a young man he
chose to attend University College Dublin, Ireland to study medicine.
When he graduated as a physician he was called to go where the need
was greatest which brought him to the out ports of Newfoundland on
February 4, 1950. When his plane landed in a raging snow storm he was
wearing only a light rain coat and worn out shoes, ironically,
"Baby it's Cold Outside" was playing on the radio at that
time. Little did he know how prophetic that song would be. Tom (TC)
hadn't planned on staying in Newfoundland, but there was a dire need
for doctors at that time. He travelled the coastline from Bay St.
George to Corner Brook providing for the sick who needed him. He
thought he'd only be in Newfoundland for a short time but lucky for us
all he met Margaret Doucette who stole his heart and Newfoundland
became his home away from home. Tom and Marg settled in Corner Brook
where they raised their 6 children. His medical practice was extensive
and he was loved by his patients. He was always there for them in
their time of need. Corner Brook benefitted from the generous life
lived by Tom Farrell. During his political career his dedication to
the city ensured improvements to the cities medical and educational
facilities. He had a pivotal role in the establishment of Western
Memorial Regional Hospital and the Sir Wilfred Grenfell College.
Though Tom didn't have a lot of free time, when he did, he loved to
spend it at the family house in Codroy Valley. He always said his
fondness for the area was born from the mountains and the sea which
reminded him of his "Old Country". In a letter to his wife
and children to be opened at his death he said "If you remember
me sometimes I would like that, but no mourning please, death in old
age is a solution not a tragedy." "P.S. if possible, up
there I will fight my way to the front line and will keep an eye on
you all." Tom leaves behind his wife of 56 years Margaret and
their children Cawley (Gustaff and Isabella), Robert (Heather, Keelia,
Thomas, Ashleen and Mia), P.J. (Stephen, Abbey and Farrell), Moya
(Kevin and Shannon), Tommy (Susette) and Kerry (Stephanie and Faith)
and of course other special family members in Newfoundland, Nova
Scotia, Ontario, US and Ireland. Visitation will be held at
Fillatre’s Funeral Home, 4 St. Mark’s Avenue on Thursday
from the hours of 6-9 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held
on Friday, April 20 at 10:30 a.m. from The Cathedral of The Most Holy
Redeemer, Mt. Bernard Avenue with Father Ambrose Hynes officiating.
Cremation to follow where on Saturday he will be reunited with his
daughter Deidre who died at birth and awaits the rest of us. As
expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Western Memorial
Regional Hospital Foundation. The family guest book may be signed or a
memorial donation may be made through our website
www.fillatre.ca.
Condolences
Marg and Family,
We are all saddened to hear of Dr.Toms passing. Our condolences to all of you. We share a lot of good memories of Uncle Tom as my girls called him and our life was made richer from knowing the kind doctor and friend over the many years. May he rest in Peace. Love to all of you.
Marlene, Amanda Colleen and Monique.
— Marlene Maynard
What a beautiful obituary. He is in a better place.Our deepest condolences to all your family.Celebrate and be proud of him and his life.
— GLORIA , PAT, ERINN, SAMANTHA
sorry to hearthe loss of your brother in law. He was a great man, doctor and poliction. He will be remembered.
Derek durdle
— Derek Durdle
Your dad was a good man, loved, admired and respected by many. He made a difference and he will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family
— Dennis & Betty Waterman
Our condolences and prayers are with you at this time. Brian and Rhonda Terry
— Brian and Rhonda Terry
Margaret our deepest condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
— Dean Halleran, Chair , NL Optometric Board
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of sorrow
Love to all
Betty Stoodley
— Betty Stoodley
We are so happy we got to meet and spend time with your dad. His stories, sense of humor, love of Kevin's Lebanese recipes and most of all his devotion to his children and grandchildren made him so wonderful to be around. While the message he left for his family brought tears, it does not surprise us given his amazing character. We love you guys and wish we could be there with you right now.
— George, Carmelita & Ashley Rowe
Farrell Family,
Tom Farrell was a larger than life person. He cut a wide swath through life and left a lasting impression on all who knew him. It was a privilege to have known him and we have many great memories of being in his company. He truly was an" Unforgettable Character".We deeply share in your loss but with the assurance that he has gone but not forgotten. With much love to all the family,Toots and Bob MacLeod
— Tooits and Bob MacLeod
P.J. is a force to be reckoned with, so learning about the larger than life legacy that is Dr. Farrell comes as no surprise. Our thoughts and best wishes are with you at this difficult time. Cherish and celebrate your life together. Love Jenn, Greg & Jill
— Jenn, Greg & Jill - the Markey-Murray's
Marg & Family: He was a great man and respected by many. May you be comforted by God's peace and the great memories of Dr. Tom.
— Donna Dobbin
In all the times that I was in your house, we treated your parents with respect, because that was how we felt around them. Your dad's presence was felt everywhere, and I can't imagine how hard this must be for you all right now. I am so sorry, and Harald, Kristian and I are thinking of you.
— Mrs Sara Lynn Gulaker
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF DR. FARRELL'S PASSING. HE WAS NOT ONLY OUR DR., BUT A GREAT FAMILY FRIEND. PLEASE BE ASSURED OF OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS AT THIS TIME.
— LINDA (SNOW) AND VERDEN INDER
Margaret my condolences to you and family. I will miss Tom greatly but I am left with many pleasant memories. Of our trip to palm Springs, of the many years that he lived across the street in St. John's and in recent years our annual trek to the valley. I am happy that I was able to spend some time with him two weeks ago.Farewell old friend:
Bob Wilton
— Bob Wilton
So very sorry to hear of the passing of your dear husband. Please accept my sincere sympathy and condolences.
— Reg Gabriel
My deepest condolences to the Farrell family.Dr. Farrell was considered a close friend of the Taylor family, as well as our family Doctor since his arrival to Corner Brook.He was loved and respected by all.I would like to say on behalf of my family members who has since Passed....Thank you Dr. Farrell may you rest in Peace.
— Ron Taylor
Bob,
Sorry to hear of your father's passing. Thinking of you all at this time.
Leslie and Keith Osmond, St. John's
— Leslie Osmond
I'm out of the province and am just heading this news. I remember a stormy night in Corner Brook as a child when my fathe was out of town and my mother and I were violently I'll with a gastro. Somehow I made it to the phone and called Dr. Tom. He came and stayed for hours. My parents told me in later years I would not have survived the night. Thank you.
— John Vivian
I'm out of the province and am just heading this news. I remember a stormy night in Corner Brook as a child when my fathe was out of town and my mother and I were violently I'll with a gastro. Somehow I made it to the phone and called Dr. Tom. He came and stayed for hours. My parents told me in later years I would not have survived the night. Thank you.
— John Vivian
Bob and Family,
So sorry to hear that your Dad has passed away. May the wonderful memories you have of him, help you through the difficult days ahead.
— Wanda and Ron Garland
Sincere sympathy on the passing of your father.
— Doug & Jean Crosbie
Marg,Kerry and family
So sorry to hear of Dr. Farrell's passing.May your memories always keep him close.God Bless !
— Paula Price
My memories of Dr. Farrell go way back to the time we were all children growing up on Marcell Avenue and in the Codroy Valley. Despite that distance of time Dr. Farrell has always been a fixture in my mind. He was a character who was larger than life to me: always close by in time of sickness and always center stage, or close to it, when our families shared times together. My parents considered "Tom" to be a dear friend and they always spoke fondly and humourously of their times with him. Though I only knew Dr. Farrell as a young boy the impression he left on me as a man was someone with conviction, courage, integrity and, above all, humour. My most heartfelt sympathies to you all on his passing.
— David Downey
We have many fond memories of Dr Farrell and they always included laughter! He had a special way of making everybody smile. He was a kind and gentle man. We will miss him dearly! Rest in peace Tom. Tons of love...Mark, Caroline, Meighan, Duncan, Caitlin and Michael.
— Mark and Caroline Maguire
Our sincere condolences on Tom's passing. He will indeed be sorely missed.
— Judy & Derek Young
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your father - he will be surely missed by all whose lives he touched in so many ways!
— Dwight and Carolyn(Bursey) Taylor
Deepest Sympathy . He was larger than life to a twelve year old member of the House family of Aguathuna. On many occasions I remember him leaving the dinner table at my Grandparents' home in response to a knock on the door as he went off to attend to a patient. He was a very dedicated doctor whose patients came first. He will be remembered.
— Jerome House
To Robert and the rest of the family I would like to express my deepest sympathy.I first met your father during the days of Frank Moores when my father (Eric Sr,) and I were extremely active with the PC party. It was the warmth and honesty of your father that stands out most in my mind and he was dedicated to the advancement and well being of Newfoundland.He gave to this island the help and respect that one would only find from a person who loved his new found home. We have lost another great man. My father died a few years ago but I suspect they will meet again and between the two keep an eye on all of us.Bless your father for good people are hard to find.
— Eric Baggs
Sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. My condolences to you and your family.
— Deborah Sheppard
Dear Margaret
My sincere sympathy goes to you and the family on the passing of dear, wonderful, Tom. I'm still telling the story about his first intro to a tea bag at the Gander airport. I think he summed it up beautifully, "old age death is not a tragedy, it's a solution.
Gladys and family.
— Gladys Downey
So sorry to hear of Dr. Farrel's passing. He was a wonderful man and a very special Dactor. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
— Sandra {Snow] Howlett
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your father. My condolences to you and your family.
— Dr. Aravind
Bob, so sorry to hear about your father. My sincere condolence to you and all the family during this difficult time. I'm thinking about you. All the best.
Glenn
— Glenn Bruce
Bob, heather and family. Thinking of you all at this time. Thoughts and prayers from those care.
Friends: Dianne, Dave and Nicholas
— Dave and Dianne Anthony
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your father. He was well-respected and liked by my parents and I do remember him from gorwing up in the neighbourhood. Thinking of you all. ~Mary Collins
— Mary Collins
Dr. Robert Farrell and Family,
We were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing, may all your precious memories help get you through the difficult days ahead, God Bless you all.
— Bonnie and Sam Dean
With you all in spirit
— Garry Westby
We are so very saddened to hear of Dr. Farrell's passing. He was a fine man, an excellent, caring physician, and a good citizen. Our sincere condolences to Marg and all the Farrell family. With fond wishes, Tina & Jerry
— Tina Dolter and Jerry George
Bob and Heather, We are saddened to hear about your dad's passing and our deepest condolences to your family. We pray for you during these difficult times. May God bless you. Jagan , Padma
— Jagan (Reddy) , Padma
We are deeply saddened to hear of your fathers' death over the weekend. We will keep you and your family in our prayers. May your dad's long legacy of caring for the health needs of others and love for his family sustain you and your families during and long after these difficult days.
— Sean and Sandi Callahan
Dr. Tom will be truly missed. He holds a special place in my life as he was the first person in this world I saw. He always reminded me that he has yet to be paid for this service. My Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. Barry, Charlie, Jack and Declan
— Barry A Myrden
Dr. Farrell was a great man and I will never forget him. He made me and my family laugh like nobody else could! He exemplified kindness, generosity, and loyalty. He was a man of great faith and I hope his family takes comfort in knowing that he is in heaven. Rest in peace Dr. Farrell. Love, Brendan, Laura-Lee, Mary, Ciara, Colleen and Sarah Maguire
— Brendan Maguire
It is impossible to address this note to one of you, I know you all, ...my deepest sympathy. We are in NS but Mom called to tell me, knowing I would want to contact you; I regret not being able to see you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dr. Farrell was a wonderful man.
— David and Ann (Alteen) Chaffey
Margaret, So sorry for your loss. We are out in BC visiting Robin who Tom delivered, and will not be in Corner Brook to say good-by at Tom's funeral.So very sorry. Rebecca phoned to let us know Ian and Sheila
— ian and Sheila Simpson
Margaret,please accept my deepest sympathies.
— Paul Hiscock
"TC" was a regular visitor to our home in Clonakilty when we were kids. He was a really lovely man and a very important person to my Mum. May he rest in peace.
— Brian Cullinane
Dear Margaret and family, Charlie and I are deeply saddened by TC's death. We have such wonderful memories going back to childhool
May he rest in peace
— Charlie and Aida Cullinane
I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the Farrell family. During my years on the staff of Premier Frank Moores, Tom was an integral part of what made the process work, not just because he was elected and a Cabinet Minister but because he gave sound advice. I know Frank counted on him and he was well served especially as a result of the close rapport Tom maintained with the caucus. That relationship was often critical to Frank's own success. His enormous sense of humour was something we will always associate with that wonderful and endearing human being. Rest in peace, Dr. Tom Farrell.
— Des Sullivan
Sorry to hear of your father's passing. We know your father always lived life to the fullest. May his memory inspire you all. Our deepest sympathy, OR Staff,CGH
— Operating Room Staff,Carbonear General Hospital
Thinking of you at this time. Please accept our
sincere sympathy.
Bea and Allan
— Allan and Bea Stoodley
So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I have fond memories of him from my teenage years - always showing interest in how I was doing and always taking the time to have a chat with me. I truly admired his commitment to public service and his community. I will remember him as him as a decent human being filled with warmth, compassion and gentle strength. Best regards.
— Derek Fudge, Ottawa
Please accept our condolences on the passing of your Father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
— Lloyd and Judy Melendy
dear tommy(jr)so sadden to hear about your dad,my prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.will see you sometime soon,god bless and take care,vivian blanchard
— vivian blanchard
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Farrell. I was saddened to hear that my favourite doctor of all time had passed away. As evidenced by the kind words of so many people, Dr. Farrell was well loved by everyone who knew him. I have lots of memories of his visits to our home many years ago to attend whoever was sick at the time. He always presented himself as being 'happy to help us'. He was such a gentle man and usually had a little story or two to tell us about one of his children. It was obvious that his family was everything to him. Such a dear, sweet man....may he now rest in peace.
— Carmel Pumphrey Hookey
My thoughts are with you at this time. Tom was a very good friend to my family for many years. Bernice Easton
— Bernice Easton
To the Farrell Family
It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our long time friend Tom. He had a long life and enjoyed his place in Newfoundland history.Everyone will miss him
Hubert and Emma
— Hubert and Emma Harnett
My deepest sympathy on the loss of Dr. Tom. He was a wonderful person, always made me feel like I was his only patient. His family - and the contributions he made to the province and the city - will be a long lasting legacy to his good works and the wonderful person that he was. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
— Pat Pye
Our thoughts are with you at this sad time. Love & Sympathy.
— Brenda & Rod
Bob and Family,
My first introduction to your father was on the provincial campaign trail in the early '70s. Dr. Farrell was a man with a mission:- he was clever, focused and stubborn like any great Irishman. He wouldn't stop day or night until every stone was turned...He often wore the rest of us out ! He talked to everyone he met and made them feel important.
He had many "matters of opinion" and he could sense a person's character and their political stripe. His wit and keen perception of the ludicrous often made us laugh and likely this trait helped him deal with lifes' difficulties...He tossed stress out the window!
He loved this province, adored his family and was loyal to all his friends. He will be remembered fondly. In a recent message he said to me, "I'll see you someday in Fiddler's Green."
My love and heartfelt sympathy to you his children, and to your dear mother.
Helena Gough
— Helena Gough
I'm sure by now you've gotten back a small portion of the love and respect Doc showed all he touched. His was a life lived with grand memories for us all. His presense in my life at times of great joy and intense grief was welcome and comforting. I echo many to say he was a great and caring friend. I'm sure he is one with a fine celestial river
— Bill Maynard
I'm sure by now you've gotten back a small portion of the love and respect Doc showed all he touched. His was a life lived with grand memories for us all. His presense in my life at times of great joy and intense grief was welcome and comforting. I echo many to say he was a great and caring friend. I'm sure he is one with a fine celestial river
— Bill Maynard
I was very sad to hear of your loss. It is more than that .... it is a great loss for many.
I will ALWAYS remember "Doc" with a tremendous amount of admiration and respect. There wasn't a time I returned to "The Rock" that didn't include a trip to the Farrells'. Many nights while I lived there, I stopped in for some food for the soul and pass away the time with Dr. Farrell. Times I have always, and will continue to cherish. An incredible man in an incredible time, certainly in MY life. He will surely be missed by many, but more by you, his beloved family.
Best wishes and God Bless.
Blair
— Blair Robbins
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Tom as his Assistant Deputy Minister of Technical Services in the Public Works & Services portfolio when he was Minister in the 1970's. He was always a congenial person who listened to advice and had no difficulty in making decisions on any issue once his mind was made up. Our sincere condolences to you all at this very sad time. Tom & Elizabeth Bursey
— Thomas Bursey
Dr. Farrell inspired me to practise Medicine,and gave me instruction on many occasions,at his home,during my medical education.I have passed on many of those instructions to my own son,who is studying Medicine.I will never forget the many things that he shared with me of his own experiences,that have inflenced the manner in which I practice today,after thirty years.He WILL be remembered by the Robbins family.Fraser and Jean would also be saddened by your loss.God Bless you all.
Dale
— Dale Robbins M.D.
To all the Farrell Family:
Sadly I am out of the Province and will miss the celebration of life ceremony for Dr. Farrell. He had a wonderful impact on Western Nwefoundland and will be remembered for that.
A true lover of Newfoundland and Labrador, he will be missed.
As a family, I know you all have wonderful memories to treasure
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
Gudie
— Gudrid - Gudie Hutchings ( Lundrigan )
Please know that I have been thinking about you and the family, and wish you strength during this difficult time. Having spent many years with your family, I know how much Dr. Farrell will be missed. He was wonderful father, doctor and friend to all. I wish I lived closer, so that I could see you all and personally give you a hug. My prayers are with you.
Love Audrey.
— Audrey Watts
Dr Farrell was a very good friend of my father. The world has, indeed, lost a giant of a man. Condolences to the Farrell family.
— Phyllis Galgay(nee Doucette)
Margaret and Family,
Tom shared his love and trust with many of us. His uncanny sense from another dimension, his stories and experiences all kept us spellbound! His love for your Margaret, his children, his native homeland, his profession, were immense. Now that you Tom, are in that better dimension, we pray for those whom you cared about that are left behind, we pray that they will cherish as we do, your huge thrust for joy and life! Sincerely Stuart & Linda
— N. Stuart & Linda Bourgeois-Fraser
Dr. Tom was such a great man and has a Great family,he will be missed by all. God Bless
Tim.D
— Tim Dunphy
Wonderful memories of Dr Farrell from the time I was a young boy in Port au Port from his many visits and house calls to our home...My grandfather Abbott especially thought the world of him and would feel better as soon as he came through the door. I join with you all in celebrating his life and great contribution to health care in this region and thank God that I had the great privilege to know him. God bless you all...
— Mike O'Neil
To All The Farrell Family, Our deepest sympathies on the loss of a great Dad, Husband, Doctor, Politician and Most of All, Friend. I have so many memories of nights at the family home when "Doc" would entertain us with stories and words of wisdom. He lived a long and prosperous life and is now at peaceful rest. I am sure he will be missed but that you will remember all the good times ... you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
— Dave & Heather Harnett
Farewell to a dear old friend whose unrestrained kindness, lightening wit and massive intellect will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and we share your loss. Dr. Tom was a cherished friend who would light up any dull room or cloudy day with keen observations and wondrous tales. We are blessed to have had him in our lives, and his humour and generosity will live on in our hearts and minds.
— Michael, Stella, Niamh, Deirdre and Maura Maguire
Dear Marg and family... I am out of town and just now learned of Dr. Farrell's passing. I am so sorry for your loss, and I hope you can all take some comfort in being together and sharing memories at this difficult time. I hope to see you, Marg, when I return to Corner Brook in early May. Take good care of yourselves. Sincerely, Paula Didham
— Paula Didham
Dear Margaret and family. We are very saddened by your loss. Tom was a cherished friend of the Maguires. He was definitely one of a kind-a "solid man" in every sense of the word. He personified kindness and humility by his actions. Great intellect and wit and he put many broad smiles on my face. I loved every time he affectionately called any of of the Maguire boys "dingbats"! We always loved spending time with him. As a physician I have great admiration for Tom's professionalism and dedication to his patients. My family is inspired by his courage and spiritual strength. I pray that we will all be together in Fiddler's someday.
Love Conor, Carolyn and Colleen Maguire
— Conor Maguire
Please accept our sincere condolences on the death of Tom a true Irishman with his faith, laughter,song, and charity.
— Tony and Valerie O'Connor
“Our sympathies to PJ, Steve, Abbie, Farrell and the family--if your daughter (and grand-daughters) are any indication Dr Farrell was a good man and he will be missed. Condolences from our family--Laura Scully, Louis Joncas, Philippe, Sophie, Anne-Marie, and Patrick”
— Scully-Joncas family
My sincerest condolences to you all. My warmest thoughts are with you at this time. Dr. Farrell was a larger than life figure and with that brings larger than life memories. I am so sorry I can not be with to celebrate his life and say good-bye. Thinking of you all, Marg (Walsh)
— Margaret Walsh
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. I will always remember him for his dedication to his patients, especially to children.
— Cathy Stratton
Our most heartfelt sympathies on Dr. Tom's passing. Susan and I will always remember him fondly for his kindness and his wit. The medical community has been enriched by the example of this wonderful teacher and family man. We share in the celebration of a life very well lived, by a man well loved.
— Stephen and Susan French
Marg - so sorry to hear about your loss. Thinkin about you all- hope to see you next time in CB.
Kath
— Katherine Coleman
Dr Farrell and Family, Sorry to hear about your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this dissicult time.
— 5th Floor Staff CGH
our prayers are with you at this difficult time
— john & gloria
Dr. Tom, larger than life, will leave a large void. He was such an endearing character with such positive attributes. He enjoyed life and enriched the lives of those around him. Condolences from our family to yours.
— Robert and Janice Alteen
Our deepest sympathy on your loss.
Dr. Farrell was well known to our family many years ago when we lived in Corner Brook. Our mother (Mary Smith) spoke very highly of him as, a nurse, she worked with him and had him as a family doctor as well.
Our condolences go out to all the family.
Cec., & Olivia Smith
— Cecilia & Olivia Smith
Marg, P.J. and all the Farrells,
There are so many wonderful stories about Dr. Farrell and his ability to deal with people, especiall the elderly. He was John's grandmother's family doctor for years.
Deepest sympathy on his passing.
john adn Joan Peddle
— John and Joan Peddle
Both our families (Cooper - Steady Brook)& (Melendy - Corner Brook) were so saddened to hear of Dr. Farrell's passing. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, on behalf of our families just know that you are very close in our every thought and prayer.
Tony & Denise Cooper - Melendy
— Tony and Denise Cooper-Melendy
I was so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. My heart goes out to you and your family as you grieve this enormous loss. May you find strength in celebrating the huge life he lived. I have some wonderful memories of Tom. He was a kind and generous man with a great sense of humor. I have wonderful memories of our families spending time together in the Codroy Valley. May you and your family find comfort in the wonderful memories he has left for you to remember of him.
— Christine Downey
Although we never met Dr. Farrell, we know our cousin PJ and if she is any example of his values, kindness and generosity, he was a fine man who will be remembered with love and respect. Best regards to your whole family. May you live in health and love for many years to come. Maxine and Christos
— Maxine Heppner and Christos Giotis
Awww So sad to hear. He was a great doctor and he was mine when i was young...i remember all the other doctors saying it was in my head...but no no...he got to the bottom of it and i cant thank you enough for that ...you will always hold a special place in my heart ....
— Kerrylynn osbourne
