Colonel Thomas John Pile, CD (Ret’d), a devoted husband, loving father of three, and proud grandfather of six, passed away on May 11, 2024, at the age of 78. Tom lived a life characterized by compassionate leadership, service to his country and above all, love for his family.
He leaves behind the love of his life, Nora (Butler) with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. They had a true partnership, sharing in all of life’s adventures. They enjoyed an active lifestyle wherever they went, always engaged in community activities and golf. Their retirement saw them return to the Maritimes to live on the ocean in Musquodoboit Harbour, and winter in South Carolina. Tom was an active member of the Lions Club, Royal United Service Institute (RUSI) and a past Commodore of the Petpeswick Yacht Club.
Tom's charisma and quick wit made him a magnet for friendship and fun. His adventurous spirit and enduring optimism shone brightly, influencing every facet of his life—from exploring new horizons to tackling new challenges. His passion for sports was evident as he was a fierce competitor in hockey for the UNB Red Devils and football with the Ottawa Sooners and Dalhousie University. These years also helped forge lifelong bonds with his teammates and brothers in the Sigma Chi fraternity.
Inspired by his father and grandfather, the military was a recurring theme throughout Tom’s life. His journey began in army cadets, and he funded his education through the Navy’s UNTD program. After earning degrees in Commerce (UNB) and Education (Dalhousie). Tom followed his dream of being a pilot, entering the Royal Air Force (RAF) program in England before returning to Canada to enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) as an air traffic controller. This marked the beginning of a distinguished 32-year career. Tom, Nora and their children lived in five Canadian Provinces as well as Germany, Spain and Washington DC. His tenure as the Canadian Defense Attaché to Spain, Morocco and Algeria highlighted his exceptional leadership and ability to represent his nation with distinction.
Those who knew Tom will remember him as a kind and loving individual, whose strength and curiosity about the world drew people to him and fueled many adventures. He was a leader by example, teaching the values of integrity, kindness, and perseverance. Tom was recently awarded the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal for both his military and community service in Nova Scotia.
Tom leaves behind his loving wife and partner in life’s adventures Nora (Butler), daughter Shannon (Calgary, Darren) and sons Sean (Halifax, Teresa) and Andrew (Ottawa, Laura), six wonderful grandchildren: Grace, Jane, Kaleb, Aria, Marika and Gabrielle as well his loving sister Elaine (Saint John) and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Lloyd and Isobel of Summerville NB and his brother Rick of Cornerbrook, Nfld.
The family would like to thank the dedicated staff at Camp Hill Veteran’s Hospital (floor 3W) who cared for Tom in his final years. They also provided outstanding support to Nora and the family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia or a charity of your choice.
Burial will take place at 10 am (followed by a reception), on June 25th, at the Beechwood National Military Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., Ottawa, Ontario
The Colonel was a special man, a father figure, a friend, an Uncle, who most of all was a wise man of compassion, integrity and love.
To Nora, Shannon, Sean and Andrew and the family, live in the memories, he'd want us all laughing.
Gone but not to be forgotten. God bless!