POLLEY, THOMAS ALAN
Born June 8, 1959 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan
Died February 26, 2018 in Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness, but also with great pride, that we announce the death of Thomas Polley (Tommy) on February 26, 2018, in Calgary.

He was born and raised in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, the fifth child of seven. He graduated from Swift Current Comprehensive High School and then obtained a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Saskatchewan. He is survived by his daughters, Rebecca (Jake) and Anna, his mother, Sheila, and siblings, Katy (Don), Jamie (Laurie), Joe (Janice), David (Karen) and Elizabeth (Scott). He was predeceased by his father, Fred, and his sister, Mary Ellen.

Tommy was a good father, son, brother, and a true friend to the many people who were lucky enough to be considered among that group. There are few who have lived their lives as honestly as did Tommy. He was genuine. He shared his true beliefs and feelings, and was always happy to converse, or perhaps more often debate, about his viewpoints in a passionate, sometimes obstinate, but always fair manner.

Tommy had real presence and an infectious energy. These were evident in the things he said and the things he did every day and his character blessed him with the ability to make friends wherever he went.

Memories of Tommy will forever be filled with humour and, if we can overcome the personal sadness in losing him for now, all memories of Tommy are sure to bring smiles and laughter.

He lived in this world, and he left it, on his own terms. In so doing, he was an inspiration to his family and friends, and particularly to those new friends who, like Tommy, were living with cancer and finding their own way.

Tommy did not complain. His concern was to make things easier for those who loved him, especially for Rebecca and Anna, for whom he had such love and pride. His spark, his humour, and his strength stayed with him until his last day.

At Tommy’s request, there will be no funeral service. He was not one to be concerned about formal process, and he had few wishes in relation to what was done when his time amongst us had come to an end. His true wish was that all his friends and loved ones would live mindfully and without stress in this life.

His family wishes to acknowledge and thank Marj and the Sage Centre Support Group, Carla with Palliative Home Care and the staff at Southwood Hospice for the tremendous support and comfort given to Tommy. There will be a private gathering on Saturday, March 3 at 3:00 p.m. A celebration of Tommy’s life may be announced at a later date.

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Tommy, please visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.