It is with profound sorrow that we share the sudden passing of Thomas Frank Raabe on April 3rd, 2023.
He is survived by his brothers Michael (Shelley). Norbert (Kathy), sister Monica (Rob) as well as his nieces and nephews; Chelsea, Chase, Nicole, Taryn and Ryan, whom he cherished deeply.
He was predeceased by his father Kurt, and recently his mother, Brigitta.
Tom was born on May 31, 1957 and grew up in Garden City. There he attended H.C. Avery School, Jefferson Junior High and Garden City Collegiate. He graduated high school in 1975 and that same year the family moved to West St. Paul. In 1979 Tom graduated from the University of Manitoba with his Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree.
Tom was an extremely devoted and hard-working employee who took great pride in his 37 year career as a Network Planner with the Manitoba Telephone System, from which he retired in 2015. He was always one to lend a hand and this helping spirit lead him to start his post-retirement business, Prime Renovations. None of his woodworking jobs however gave him more joy than building his home with his dad in 1985, and the passion for woodworking continued until his passing. He would often be puttering in his shop and was a Jack- of-all-trades; he could build anything and there wasn’t a project that he didn’t have a tool for!
Our brother had our dad’s spirit; passionate about things he believed in, and being a man of conviction, he wasn’t afraid to voice his thoughts about what was right, or what was wrong. He loved a good debate! Above all, he had a huge heart for those less fortunate, and prior to his passing volunteered with Siloam Mission.
Tom loved music, and was one of Bruce Springsteen’s biggest fans. One of his favourite pastimes was watching Jets games and he treasured spending time with his friends, especially long-time buddies Irv, Dean, Gerald, Len and Doug. He will be missed by many others who had the good fortune to know Tom for the kind soul he was. Tom is missed by his family beyond measure, and the void felt by his sudden loss is indescribable.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 30th at the Rivercrest Inn (4200 Main St., West St. Paul) from 7-9 pm. All are welcome to attend (come and go).
He will be laid to rest with his parents on May 31st at a private family ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honour Tom by making a donation to a Mental Health charity of your choice, or to Siloam Mission.
You will never be forgotten, dear brother, uncle and friend.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Tom’s memorial page by using the comment field below.