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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
Another old sailor shoves off. Thomas P Larkin set sail, early March 6 for his final deployment. A life-long member of the RCN and a proud Korean vet, Chief Larkin spent his last few years in residence at the Broadmead Veterans Memorial Lodge. His 93 year old journey now ends as he sails off to reunite with his wife and ship-mates on some distant shore. Safe travels, Dad and thanks for everything that you were. "Ready Aye Ready". xox John Larkin
LARKIN, Thomas (Tom) Patrick - On the morning of March 6, 2024, at the age of 92, Tom (Dad, Grampy, Amp, Uncle Tom, UT, Chief) peacefully passed away. Born on June 28, 1931, predeceased by his wife, Joan (Jo) Larkin, sisters Margaret Schneider and Helena Schmidt, brother Richard Larkin, and first-born son, Thomas Martin Larkin.
Tom was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy at the tender age of 17. His training brought him to Naden at CFB Esquimalt in Victoria, BC where he met and married Joan in 1950. Shortly thereafter he received his orders and sailed to Pearl Harbour on the HMCS Sioux to support the war efforts in Korea. Returning home safely, Tom's navy career took them to the east coast of Canada and the UK, but Victoria was always home and it is there they proudly raised a family of five.
Dad's long career serving in the Royal Canadian Navy is an eternal source of pride for our entire family. Serving on submarines, frigates and destroyers (HMCS Athabaskan, HMCS Sioux, HMCS Restigouche, HMCS New Glasgow) we proudly say, "Thank you for your service, Chief Larkin".
Known by many for his sparkling blue eyes and wry sense of humour our lives are forever changed as we accept his loss. Dad leaves behind daughter Judi (Jeff); son John (Tammi); daughters Kim and Kara; grandchildren Dayna (Bryce), Clynt (Heather), Megan (Taylor); 4 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and brother-in-law Bernie (Bonnie).
We'd like to express our deepest gratitude and respect for the compassionate care Dad received at Veterans Memorial Lodge during his last 5 years. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Broadmead Care Society.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. (The Victoria Times Colonist 20 Apr 2024)
Ships served in:
(left) LS Thomas Larkin with his son after having returned home from SIOUX'S Korean War deployment (right) Thomas Larkin on an unknown ship
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