In loving memory of
Thomas Crawford Garven
With a deep sense of loss, the family of Thomas “Thom” Crawford Garven, 89, of Bridgewater, announces his passing on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at South Shore Regional Hospital with his family by his side.
Born in Paisley, Scotland, he was a cherished son of the late Alexander and Joanna Walker.
Thom emigrated to Canada in 1957 and dedicated his professional life to teaching cosmetology at the Nova Scotia Community College. Through his guidance, he taught generations of hair stylists and barbers, leaving a lasting legacy in his field. An active man of many talents, he enjoyed a variety of sports including golf, soccer, and was a longtime member of the Bridgewater Curling Club. He was a teacher of many things including, curling art, dance and barbering.
He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially his beloved granddaughters, Samantha and Ella. Memories of boating and cherished moments at Lake Mush-a-Mush will be forever treasured.
Thom leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Nancy; his children, Ryan (Lori), Bridgewater and Jana (Alan) Crouse, of Bridgewater; his adored granddaughters, Samantha and Ella; and his sisters-in-law, Jennifer Garven of Chester, England; Margie Cole, Bridgewater; brother-in-law Harold Shortliffe, Truro.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Alexander.
In accordance with Thom’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a graveside service will be held at a later date in Brookside Cemetery, Bridgewater. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Personal Care Cremations.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to a charity of your choosing.
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SERVICES & GATHERINGS
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In accordance with Thom’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a graveside service will be held at a later date in Brookside Cemetery, Bridgewater.FAVOURITE CAUSES
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So sorry to hear 😢Thomas was my Cosmetology Instructor 1979,1980 at LRVS. He will always be remembered for his kindness he showed to all his students. Sending condolences from Jerry Swain and myself to Nancy and Family❤️
On behalf of the Bridgewater Curling Club, we’d like to express our sincere condolences to Thom’s family.
I was so deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was such a kind, sweet, and humorous man — always a joy to be around, with a gentle soul and never a harsh word. I will always remember how much I enjoyed seeing and speaking with him, and the light he brought to those around him.
My heartfelt sympathies go out to Nancy, Ryan, Jana, and all of your families during this difficult time. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincere sympathy to Tom’s family and friends. Always enjoyed a visit at your home, when Verlene and I dropped in for a beverage, Nancy. Tom could certainly put a smile on our faces. Thinking of you and sending big hugs, Nancy. 🙏🏽.
I am so very sorry to hear about Thom passing away. My condolences Nancy, Ryan and Jana and Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Lots of hugs to you all as well.❤️❤️❤️🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂
We are thinking about you and sending so much love and hugs to all of you. We are so sorry for your loss. Tom was such a sweet man. His spirit will live on in you.
Much love, Jen, Mike, Di and Reid
Nancy and Family, So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I enjoyed Golfing and Curling with Tom over the years.
He had a great sense of humor which was appreciated by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Much Sympathy, Don and Dianne
Dear Nancy, we were so saddened to read of Tom’s passing. George really enjoyed the golf games with Tom never knowing where his ball went. 😊. We both enjoyed his and your company when we were together. His painting has a special place in my nautical theme bathroom where we will think of him when we look at it. Sending hugs to you and your family at this difficult time. Peggy and George Boudreau
My condolences to Nancy, Ryan and Jana. I often think of by-gone days at my former home on Dawson St and
Tom and I at the Golf Course, he was an excellent golfer and put up with me for a number of years trying to get
a hole-in-one. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time. Verlene Henderson