Thomas Nicklefork

The Legend Tom Nicklefork passed away surrounded by loving family on Sunday, February 8th, 2026 at the age of 78. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Ruby; his son, Jeff (Holly); daughter, Deena; ‘bonus daughter', Olivia (John); and grandchildren, Thomas and Ella.

Tom was predeceased by his mother, Nellie; father, John; and brother, Ron.

Tom made sure to live a full life. He started no less than 15 companies and wasn’t afraid of hard work. From setting bowling pins at his local bowling alley at the age of 6, to working as a brakeman on the CNR, to building houses in Strathmore and then owning 3 pizza places (Crossfield, Carstairs and Didsbury). He went on to find his true calling when he started selling cars at Carstairs Ford, evidenced by the fact that one short year later he decided to open his own car lot in Airdrie. This ultimately turned into Airdrie RV and Carstairs RV, which he owned for 28 years. He rounded out his time by being involved in weekly poker games, golf games and taking anyone who would join him fishing.

Tom was known to his friends and family as the preeminent storyteller and ultimate jokester. He made friends everywhere he went and couldn’t go anywhere without running into someone that he knew. He spent many winters in Mesa, Arizona, only ending his time there when Ruby got sick. Tom and Ruby shared a deep love for music and rescuing dogs. Throughout their 54 years of marriage they took Jeff and Deena on many trips around the world and later traveled extensively with a group of friends.

Tom always loved kids and made it a point to be there for Jeff and Deena, as well as their friends growing up. From hosting New Years Eve parties in his basement, to driving everyone to concerts, to taking friends up to Pine Lake, to go boating and fishing, he welcomed everyone with open arms. He was always the first to volunteer if the kids needed a chaperone for a school trip or a campout. Once both kids went to college, Tom would visit and always took as many of their friends out to eat as possible – always making sure to cover the bill.

The family would like to especially thank Happy at Home HealthCare Services (Jen, Shawna, Mala), Aaron Laliberte, Bob Peel, Brent and Marilyn Moss and Bernie and Kathy Friesen for their help and support. We’d also like to acknowledge Dr. Nimira Alimohamed, Dr. Charilaos Harry Brastianos, Dr. Eric Hyndman, Dr. Kam Kaler and the nurses at Bayshore Infusion Clinic for their care and dedication.

A celebration of life will be held in early July, details to come.

Gone too soon, forever in our hearts. “We love you too”.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Toms name to bladdercancercanada.org or aarcs.ca (Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society).