Longtime harness racing industry participant Thomas Malcolm 'Tom' Manes passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 6 at his Cedarvale Farm, in the presence of his loving wife and children at the age of 87.
During his short, hard-fought fight with cancer, Tom continued to demonstrate tremendous bravery and determination, as he did throughout his entire life. His strength served as an inspiration to his family.
Tom was the son of the late Oscar and Rowena Manes. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna (McMillan) Manes, for over 62 years, his two sisters, Jean Dryer and Pat (Bill) Dawkins, sister-in-law, Marnie Manes; his sons Bill (Val), Brad, Barry (Tracy) and daughter Janis (Peter) Krause. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren; Brett (Jessica), Terresa (Chris), Ryan, Laura, Katelyn, Rachel, Ben, Jeffrey and Addison; and his six great grandchildren, Nolan, Cadence, Layla, Jordyn, Blakely and Talya, and many nieces and nephews. Tom was predeceased by his brothers, Harold and Dave Manes, brother-in-law Stu Dryer and sister-in-law, Madeline Manes.
Tom was born on July 19, 1934, in Chinguacousy Township (Brampton, Ont.). From a young age, Tom was a hard worker and a true entrepreneur, providing for his family. He worked multiple jobs, including working at the Ford plant, IGA, Manes Country Market and Mohawk Racetrack as the operator of the “Leaser” for 30 years. In the later years of his life on his hobby farm, he sold Christmas trees, produce, and raised chickens, cattle and ducks.
In addition to his hard-working personality, Tom was also known for his collection of old tractors, card skills and his love of desserts, especially pie and ice cream. He was a generous family man who made everyone feel welcome in his home. There was always a cold beer on tap for anyone who visited the farm.
The family would like to thank Marie, Mark, Jennifer and Dr. Abboud for the compassionate care he received in his home.
As per Tom’s request, cremation has taken place. An intimate memorial service will be held for the immediate family at the Nassagewaya Presbyterian Church later this week.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a memorial donation to the Cancer Assistance Services Halton Hills (CAShh) or Nassagewaya Presbyterian Church.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Tom Manes.
I really liked Tom. Sad day.
I really liked Tom. Sad day.
When Jerry and I moved to
When Jerry and I moved to this area on December 1, 1982 Tom and Donna were here to see if we needed any help. We have never forgotten and we have remained good friends with them and their family ever since. Tom was always the one who was called when we had any problems with our furnace or water. His son Brad hooked up Tom’s generator to our house during the ice storm. When we raced Wilco’s Kosby in the Prix de L’Avenir at Blue Bonnets in 1992, Tom, Donna and their youngest son Barry showed up unexpectedly to celebrate the win with us. Bill Manes, Tom’s oldest son was a partner with us on his first horse Play To Win. Jerry sees Tom regularly for equipment repairs and always enjoys a visit and a beer from Tom’s keg he kept in his workshop.
They just don’t make them like Tom anymore.
My condolences to the Manes
My condolences to the Manes family. Tom was a great guy.
Ricky Montgomery
So sad to hear of Tom's
So sad to hear of Tom's passing. I can't begin to imagine how many people Tom has helped over the years in so many different ways. I found within the first two minutes of talking to Tom he came across like a father, or grandfather figure!! What a great guy, you will be missed Tom. Condolences to all the Manes family.
My condolences to the Manes
My condolences to the Manes family. RIP Tom.