Tom's Birthday

Last night was another birthday party for London and area artist Tom Denomme. February 28, his birthday, is nearly here. Tom passed away in 2005 due to an unexpected medical ailment at the age of 51. What was different about this party is that Tom was not with us in person for the first time. This year's event was held at the London Music Club with a full house of friends and family of Tom. I had the honour of sitting with one of Tom's longest and best friends.

Tom came from a large family of 16 children. If you were schooled through the Catholic school system in London in the 50's, 60's, 70's, and 80's chances are that you knew of the Denomme family. Tom's brother Pete, whom I call a friend, happily opened the party by reminding us all how Tom would expect happiness, music, dancing, good food and conservation to be the order of the party. And it was.

Personally, I enjoyed the party. Three music features performed: The Two Uncles, Reverend Freddie and The Distiller's and Whiplash. As always at the London Music Club the entertainment was excellent! To go along with the music and socializing I had a couple of cokes and an order of the Jerked Chicken Wings. Delicious.

Peter and Jan Denomme, who are also the proprietor's of this fine establishment, had a table of hor's d'ouvres and fruit for the gathering. Peter was kind enough to encourage me to take photos, so I took 273 of them. A testament to the varied and eclectic group of people that Tom knew.

The day of Tom's funeral there was a traffic jam in downtown London because of the large number of people who came to pay their respects.

From an early age, and throughout his time with us, Tom was a larger than life personality ... someone who loved and valued everyone he came in touch with. His love for life and people was contagious. When you were with Tom you just felt good!

Happy birthday Tom!