Obituary of Tom McGinnis

Surrounded by his loving family, Tom passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Tom was born on October 27, 1954, in Saint John, New Brunswick to Gerry and Rita (nee Whalen) McGinnis.

Tom was a graduate of St. Malachy's High School and went on to earn a Science Degree from St. Francis Xavier University in 1977.

After a brief stint as a pharmaceutical sales representative in Sydney NS, Tom headed west to Calgary where he began a 26-year career with Air Canada in 1980. His employment with the airline also took him to Vancouver for some 15 years and thereafter to St. Johns, NL where he retired in 2005. During his tenure with the airline Tom was actively involved in union affairs.

Shortly after retiring Tom re-entered the work force for some 8 years as constituency assistant to Jack Harris, N.D.P. MP for St. John’s East, NL. Tom returned to his native Saint John, NB in 2016.

Over the years Tom visited many parts of the world with both friends and family. He loved experiencing the languages, cultures, and cuisines of other countries.

Tom was always interested in politics and world events. While he

 held strong opinions of his own, he was always open to the views of others and enjoyed nothing more than an intelligent discussion and spirited debate on whatever topic.

Tom is survived by his brother John McGinnis (Beth); his six sisters: Mary Smith, Carmel McGinnis, Geraldine Newman, Eleanor McGinnis, Christine Kelly (Pat), and Caroline McGinnis (Mike Ryan); as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Tom had many close friendships, most notably with Brian Nolan, Shawn Hyde, Eugene Hiscock, and Lynn Andrews, all of Newfoundland.

Besides his parents, Tom was predeceased by his sister Paula McDonough, and precious niece Fiona McDonough.

Tom and his family would like to sincerely thank all caregivers of the Saint John Regional Hospital involved in his care over the past several months.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Castle’s Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Avenue, Saint John NB (506-634-1701). Visitation will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023, from 12:00 – 2:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will directly follow, beginning at 2:00 PM at the Castle “Fallsview” Chapel. Donations in Tom’s memory can be made to the charity of your choice. To make online condolences please visit www.castlefh.com.