On March 23, 2021, the last “SOLD!” bellowed from the deepest part of his voice. His horses have turned to face the sunset and his dogs are resting at his feet. Tom’s big rough hands and his even bigger heart saw him teach, farm, drive truck, auctioneer and 5 other occupations at once it seems. His laughter and stories generate memories that overflow the page. From being the first Orange Protestant man to teach with a school full of Catholic nuns (and they still liked him despite his flaws) to kidnapping MP Jack Riddell in a horse and buggy with life long friend Ken Liddell. You could see his love of life every time he slapped his knee and laughed in the middle of one of his tall tales.
He’d tell you first hand, with his pointer finger tipped your way so that you knew you were to be listening close, about orchestrating a “Penny Auction” in 1983 to save a struggling farmer. That triumph was something that raised his fist in the air and brought a glint to his eye.
The crazy, fun-filled and sometimes dangerous antics filled his life with stories that could be retold a thousand times. From planning the robbery of the last train through Denfield ( which would have been a success if only his horse could’ve run a bit faster) to racing chariots around a local circuit, in full costume – no one every really asked if undergarments were required under those medieval outfits.
He loved women and wild horses, I doubt there was another that could say they had a life-time ban from the Shillelagh in Lucan for running a team of horses right through the front door. He was a great story teller and you were always lucky to hear any one of those tales if you attended one of his auction sales. Half the time it wasn’t about the deals you could find but more about the entertainment value you’d get on a Saturday afternoon. He loved his family and his community and he loved to make you smile. You’d shake your head when he’d say “Now listen to me, for a minute” or “Did I ever tell you about the time…”
He was always up for an adventure or party of any kind. The stories that would come out of it the day after were most definitely better then the actual event that was held. But if you stood by his side at any one time you were guaranteed to learn something new that you’d never heard before. After living most of his adult life in Denfield Ontario, Tom finally answered the call to an adventure he always wanted. Pulling up stakes and moving north, Tom settled into the northern community of Krugerdorf as if he’d been there all his life. Which shouldn’t surprise anyone who knew him. Tom, he always had a good time.
He’s moved on to sit for a while with St Peter at the pearly gates. He’s having a laugh, slapping his knee telling ole Pete a story about you and I. May you be in heaven an hour before the devil knows you’re gone.
With his love of a good party in mind, a tale telling gathering will be held at a later date when all you poor buggers can come.
In lieu of flowers Tom’s wife, Cheryl and family, would be honoured to have you remember him with a donation to The Charlton Englehart Lions Club or Southgate Cemetery at the time of his gathering.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
joyce hilton
To the Shoebottom Family- My sincere sympathy in your great loss. When I read about Tom, I laughed so hard at the stories about him. I myself, am Irish descent. He certainly left me with the feeling that I wished I had known him. God bless. Joyce H.
Matthew Johnson
My condolences to the family, I will always remember his auction chant, it was unique to him and nice to listen to.
Danny Shoebottom
Rest in peace Tom. Your voice may be silenced but if we stop and listen the the breeze rustling the leaves we may be able to still hear you. To travel all the way to Parry Sound for mom and dad’s ( Ray and Doris Shoebottom) auction and have the gathered crowd entertained while you guided them to bid up was a joy to witness. Heaven is a better place. May you continue to tell a tall tale or two.
Dale & Linda Froats
Our deepest condolences to Rebecca, Scott and the Shoebottom family. Tom will be missed; he left us with some great memories. We appreciate having known him and sharing laughs and stories together.
Bob and Nancy Rushton
What a beautifully written tribute to an unforgettable guy! Tom will certainly be missed.
Sincere condolences from The Rushton family
Sharon Hodgins
Cheryl Scott and Becky
So sorry to hear of Toms passing.
My deepest sympathy.
Dorothy Revington
My earliest memories of Tom take me back to the Tattersalls Horse sales in Lexington, Kentucky. and to the Toronto Yearling Sales. when Tom dressed in his burgundy blazer and grey trousers, took bids from patrons of those wonderful autumn events. Tom also could be counted on to auction the coveted elderberry pies that brought in hundreds of dollars over the years for our Lucan Area Heritage Auctions. We missed Tom when he moved from our Lucan area and will continue to miss him now . Yes, Tom was one of a kind!
My deepest sympathy to the Shoebottom families.
Dorothy Revington
Murray & Ann McLean
Cheryl & Tom’s Family,
So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. We will miss the phone calls and the booming voice. So many stories, laughs & memories. It has been an honour to have known & worked with Tom at auctions for the past 20 years.
Rest in peace, our friend.
Ann & Murray McLean
Joseph & Diane Kaak
Cheryl & Family
Our sympathy in the loss of your loved one.
Have many great memories of Tom
Joe & Diane Kaak
Bonnie & Kevin O’Shea
Our Condolences to Tom’s Family
Who doesn’t love the chant of an Auctioneer – If Tom spotted you, it was always fun to see what comic relief he had or to get your bid. Talk about wild horses, try watching Tom chariot race as a kid and it not ending well… he had no fear!
Tom was there for our dad four years ago taking him for walks, a true neighbour til the end.
He will be missed.
Bob and Martha Heywood
My sincere sympathy to Cheryl and Tom’s family. I always enjoyed Tom’s candor and quick wit whether it was as an auctioneer or just having a chin wag over a coffee at Tim Hortons. He was a natural story teller and entertainer. He came to help me on a few occasions at large sales and I was never concerned at what was happening in his ring. One evening we even shared the stage at a gala fund raiser for Orchestra London at the convention centre. Man where we out of place but I know the crowd loved Tom. He left a message on my answering machine a long time ago. I never erased it for several years. Every once in a while I would listen to it just to lighten and brighten my day. I wish I could hear it again. A character not soon to be forgotten.
Robert Cuillerier
Deepest Sympathies on the passing of Tom. He was a real people person! I got to know Tom at the Auctions, and it made the sales way more fun!
Tom had a great sense of humor and the stories were so interesting. You never went to a sale that Tom didnt send you home with a few laughs.
Like Tom said “It was brand new at one time!” with something being auctioned that had seen better days as far as condition!
I think Tom could sell snow in Feb , and make you feel like you got a bargain!
Tom could roll with things. I remember one time Tom says “You know to buy this new at the hardware would be $20.00, who will give me a $5.00 Bid?” As the auctioning went on, and the price was up to $30.00, Tom says “This one is much better than the $20.00 one i was telling you about, at the hardware!!”
You will me missed Tom. My sympathies!
Robert Cuillerier
Bob & Sheila and Robert Jr.
Elaine and Arlene Cary
Dear Joan, Ann and families,
We are so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. A memory that stands out from many years ago, is of dressing Tom in Aunt Edith’s suit and hat. What a great photo it made!
Our thoughts are with you.
Deborah & Rich Hunter
What a charismatic character with a twinkle in his eye! Thank you so much for your warmth and sage advice when we moved to Ilderton and purchased The King Edward. You were one of the first people to welcome us to town. We will never forget your kindness. Ham and Strawberry suppers will never be the same! May you brighten Heaven as you did earth. Our deepest condolences to your family.
God Bless Tom! Rich and I shall miss you.
Bev. Oneil
Dear Cheryl,Scott,and Becky my heart goes out to all of you at this sad time.Rest assured he left behind many good memories.Love one another ,hang tough as he did his whole life.
Sheila Hodgins
To Rebecca and family. I was so sad to hear of the passing of your Dad. Your Dad was an amazing man and his absence will be missed by not only his family but by many many more. I remember the good times and laughs we had when we decorated his house for our Christmas Home Tour ….he was so much fun and always ready with a story or a joke! He loved to entertain us ladies and he did! He truly will be missed. Keep the many memories close to your heart Rebecca! xxoo
Wes & Christine Hodgson
To Tom’s family, Joan, Ralph & family, Ann ,Ron & family
Sorry to hear of Toms passing, our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time
Ann Brabender
Well what can I say……as Tom’s sister, when folks asked “are you related to Tom Shoebottom?”. I would always say well why? Because you never knew if they were going to say what a great guy he was or that he was an ass! But he was a great brother. As kid he and Wayne Watson and Hugh Kennedy would take me skating at the old Ilderton Arena on Sat night and then dump me for a night out on the town!! If I ever needed any thing he was always there for me. He treated my kids like his own!
Tom was there when I was born and I had the pleasure of being there to help care for him during his last five days. Lots of great memories and stories told right to the end. He never lost his sarcasm! We will miss Tom but now Tom is free of this “f…ing disease” as Tom called it. He is connecting with old friends and family! Heaven will not know what has hit for a bit. But I know he will be watching over us and making sure we continue to remember and enjoy life……..Ann
Patrick Ryan
Our condolences, Tom will not be forgotten and Heaven will never be the same!
Rest in piece old neighbor.
Pat Ryan and the Ryan clan
MaryKay Vary
Becky, my heart goes out to you and your family. I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Thinking of you and sending lots of love and hugs.
Steve and Kim Bowman
Dear Cheryl, Beckie and Scott and families
Tom truly was a story teller. His laughter could be heard across the agri-plex. Our deepest condolences.
Andy Lenders
My sincere condolences to Scott, Becky and families
John & Mary Walls
Cheryl, Becky, Scott & the Shoebottom family;
Tom was a great friend and neighbour. Always enjoyed his conversations and insights on life.
Thinking of you at this difficult time.
Lori and Ron Debrouwer
16 mile road has lost another character. I bet there was a great bunch waiting to welcome Tom. Sending our condolences to all of Toms family.
Patricia McKenna
Cheryl, Matt, Becky and families.
We are so sorry for your loss! May Tom’s memories give you peace and laughter in your time need. He will forever watch over you and you can guarantee heaven will never be the same now that Tom Shoebottom has arrived.
You will forever be missed by many and remember by everyone whose life you touched. RIP Tom
Pat and Tim McKenna
Chuck, Vanessa, Robbie & Cynthia
Cheryl & Matt
We are sorry for your loss, but know that we are here if you need anything. Tom was quite the character, and he will continue to be the subject of many stories to come. May your memories continue to make you smile, and bring you peace. We all love you to bits.
Ken Flanagan
Condolences to the Shoebottom family. Tom taught me at DCS & he also bought pigs from me. He was a fun guy and there was never a dull moment in the classroom. RIP Tom
Caroline Rasenberg
My deepest condolences to Cheryl, Matt, all the Families & Friends touched by Tom Shoebottom.
He was a very courageous man, like many other things in his life, Tom fought a hard battle. He may not have won this fight, but he led a life full of memories, laughs, and lessons that we all cherish. One of my favourite memories with Tom was playing spoons at my surprise 40th, I didn’t break the table! Another memory was seeing Tom attempt to get in and (not so graciously) flip out of a hammock while I drove up the drive, “I don’t think I’m good in a hammock” he said to me…………… I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry!
So long my friend, see you another time
Caroline Rasenberg, Tony Vanderhoek & Corinne
Dale Cook
Rebecca, Scott, Cheryl and family, that is the most truly befitting obituary of Tom, It has an absolute pleasure to have know him a really great auctioneer, teacher, story teller, never ever a dull moment with him around, Denfield , Ilderton and area was certainly blessed to have him as a part of our community.
Ruth Mardlin
I am so sorry to that Tom has died. Sending my love and prayers to Ann and family.
Emily Savoie (Saunders)
What a voice!
What a Legend!
RIP Tom
William Barry * Pierson
Dear Becky Scott and families Sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He was a great friend and neighbor, he will be missed. Claire and Barry
becky
scott and families
Dave and Joanne Walzack
Cheryl and the Schoebottam family
We are so sad to hear of Tom’s passing. He will be missed.
Barry and Carol Tucker
We are saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. What a character he was and always a story to tell. He will be missed for sure. We are close by, Cheryl, if you need anything at all.
Barry and Carol Tucker
Marg and Larry
Rest in peace Tom. We had a lot of fun growing up together and enjoying all those family gatherings throughout the years.
Bryan and Liz Graham
Our condolences to the entire family. We were sorry to learn of Tom’s passing.
Bryan and Liz Graham
Dan and Ruth Dobinson
Tom was the neighbour who would always wave and stop to talk Our condolences to his family
Joan Robson
That’s my brother! We will miss him.
Wayne & Pam Hall
Dear Cheryl and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I first met him when I was about 9 or 10 when I travelled with Dr. John Brown to the Thorndale Fair to see Tom in a chariot race. What a wild event that was. Over the years we would run into each other at events, auctions, or at Tim Horton’s. He always had a good story. My condolences to the family.
Ilderton Agricultural Society
Tom’s contributions at the Ilderton Fall Fairs were very much appreciated. Our sincere condolences to his family at this sad time.
Ron & Pat
Rebecca, Shane, Grace, Max and Amy
Our deepest condolence of your father/Grandpa. We knew him from following most of the auctions back in the 80’s and 90’s he was a character for sure as was Tom Robson, a lot of laughs.
Rebecca it was very interesting following you on FB these past few months. Great tributes of your Mom and Dad. It has been really tough haul for you and your family. Hopefully in your days ahead you all will find some peace and happiness in all your memories of them both. Spring is here enjoy some sunshine and relaxation .
Pat Legg
So very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He had a full life and was loved by neighbours, friends and family. I remember him trying to hold up the train, but the steam engine was just too fast for him and his horse. Will be remembered fondly.
Mike Sharpe
You lived a great life, one I was happy to be part of experiencing. Lots of fun times and unique memories. Mike
Yule Willemtje
Dear Becky & Scott so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Our thoughts are with you!
Willie & Bill Yule
Victoria Day
Dear Cheryl, Matt and the Shoebottom families:
We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know we are thinking of you and are hoping that your memories of Tom will help to bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
With love and deepest sympathy,
Vickie and Corey Day
Will Pierson/Heather Prout
Scott, Becky & families
Sorry to hear of Toms passing, our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time
Joe Ryan
My condolences to Cheryl and the Shoebottom family . I was another student of Dublin High School and the nunes . I remember the time Tom took 2 groups of 7 boys each home with him too the farm in Denfield fed us supper and breakfast the next morning before bring us back to Dublin the next morning. Have great memories of Mr. Shoebottom. Great man . R.I.P. Tom
Harold and Margaret Saunders
Dearest Cheryl, Becky, Scott, sisters and families,
All our love and hugs as we remember Tom will such great affection and definitely some humorous memories. He was one of our most colourful, generous and thoughtful neighbours here at “Holy Corners”. Tom always phoned from “up North” for our birthdays and holidays. Bless him! He will be sorely missed. xoxo
Roy & MJ van Kasteren
Dear Shoebottom Family,
This man truly had a great life, it was always a pleasure listening to his many stories. We offer our condolences, and will keep Tom in our thoughts. RIP Tom.
Jim Paisley
RIP. Tom. I remember the train robbery with the gang from the 14th con. Many wins for you at the fall fairs riding Big Bertha. In the 60’s. Had a lot of fun with you and Murray growing up in ilderton. Will never forget you
Jan Breimer
Please pass on our heartfelt condolences to the family from John & Beth Breimer. John remembers the time he combined Tom’s soybeans in the middle of the night of December 1977 just before the big snowstorm.
Dan & Judy Alce
Cheryl & family,
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you during this sad time. He was a good friend & will be surely missed.
Glenn & Sharleen Phillips
Cheryl and Family
Sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. It was privilege to have known and done business with him.The obituary tells it all. There was always a story and entertainment when ever we met.
Allison Smith
Sending our condolences to the family.
Genna Shaw
I am so sorry for your loss Shoebottom family.
Mark Heimrich
Cheryl & Family;
I was lucky enough to have met Tom & have him as a customer for many years. Wow! What a guy! I’d always walk away highly entertained but also wiser after our conversations & his litany of stories. He truly was one of a kind. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Mark & Julie Heimrich & staff at Lifetime Water Products.
Belinda Jackson
What an amazing man you must have been to have raised an awesome, strong, beautiful, courageous daughter; my friend Rebecca. She is a credit to you and I’m so proud to call her my friend. RIP and god bless. Sending all my love from Australia to Rebecca and all the family.
Sandra and Bill Anderson
Tom was a big personality. It was always fun working auctions with him, the stories he would tell. Our condolences to Cheryl and family.
Ms. Roberta J Fox
I always enjoyed spending time with my Dad John Shoebottom and Tom. Lots of laughter and fun stories between them all! Condolences to his family. I am sure him and Dad are having a great time comparing notes up in heaven.
Regards, Roberta (Shoebottom Fox-Lawson, Chatham, ON
Margarida Tavares Dalgety
I am so sorry for the loss of our dear Tom. My deepest sympathy to the family. He will be sadly missed, but always lovingly remembered. Love Margarida & Lowell Dalgety
Paula
Becky, Scott and families,
We are so sorry for the loss of your fathers! He was one of a kind and one of the best. Xoxo
Mark, Paula, Mary and Luke
Deirdre oneil
Dear Becky and family
So sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He was the kind of man that all will remember with a smile and a warm heart
Deirdre and Max
Estrada family
To all of Tom’s family,
What a wonderful life you were able to experience having Tom in it. Sending you our deepest sympathy in this very sad time. Hold on to your memories and keep telling those stories to bring many more smiles to your faces. Tom will be missed so much by everyone who he ever knew. God bless you all.
Bill and Marilyn Hack
Please accept our condolences at this sad time to all of Toms family. Tom was a good friend who we had many good laughs with. There was never a dull moment when you were around Tom. We will miss him and his special way of teaching others how to enjoy life. Sincerely, Bill and Marilyn Hack
Tom Melady
My condolences to Cheryl and family members of Mr. Shoebottom, a name that we knew him as, since I was one of the students he taught at Dublin High School w/ all the nuns. He is so well described in his obituary. In recent years I have heard many of his stories. He was a character who will be missed. Rest well Tom wearing your big smile.
Heidi Kuhn
This was a great obituary to read about Tom. Lived a grand life. Sending hugs to Becky and the entire family.
Kelly
Rebecca, Shane, Grace, Max and Amy.
It has been such a long, hard couple of months for all of you. More than a family should have to go through at one time. You have been on my mind and in my heart every day. Take care of one another and take really good care of that mom of yours. She is a pretty special lady. And after reading all of the stories about Tom and Betty, I completely understand why.
Thank you Rebecca for introducing me to your parents. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know them over the past couple of months.
Lots of love for all of you.
Xoxoxo
Carolyn
He is for sure dancing in heaven and telling tales. My thoughts and prayers to all of his family. Xoxo
Linda Mills
What a beautifully written obituary that truly portrays the life of Tom. It was a pleasure to have known him and to have been able to listen to the odd tale or two. Auction sales brought a gleam to his eye and that is how I came to know of the famous Tom Shoebottom. Sending my sincerest and deepest sympathy to Rebecca and Scott and their families and to Toms wife Cheryl. Hold all of your wonderful memories close to your heart as you begin to grieve him. Rest In Peace Tom …….you were truly one of a kind!!
Mark and Lori Hickson
Oh Rebecca, I am so very sorry to hear the news of your Dads passing. My heart breaks for you and your family. Sending our love and strength to help you through the dark days ahead.
Kelly O’Neil
Shoebottom family .
Deepest sympathies to all of you at this time . Tom was a family friend and fine neighbor. He will never be forgotten!
Kelly Callum and Brynn O’Neil
Colleen and Ernie Dobinson
Becky and Family. Such a loss for all those who know Tom. He had a heart of gold. When Ernie and I needed a place for our stag and doe he cleared an entire drive shed to make it happen! Always there to share a great story and never shy to tell you the truth when someone needed to hear it!
I can only imagine the gathering awaiting him in heaven! My thoughts and prayers are with you all in the hard days ahead.
Barbara Johnson
So sorry to hear the sad news. Tom was a special guy. Loved working with him on the Heavy Horse Committee at Ilderton Fair.
Karen Scarborough and Doug O'Neil
Dear Cheryl and family. So glad you were able to spend the last few years up in Northern Ont together. Doug and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit in 2019 , and your hospitality of letting us stay in your cabin( train and all). Tom was such a likeable fellow and an entertaining auctioneer. Cheryl- he thought the world of you. Cherish all the wonderful memories.