Saturday, January 24: Doors open at noon and the program will be underway by 1pm:
Keith Thom – councillor and local folk singer / fund raiser, passed away November 6
The following was published on Keith Thom’s personal Facebook page November 15:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Pierson Thom, affectionately known as Papa Thom, on November 6, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on May 13, 1954, in Kitchener, Ontario, Keith lived a life full of music, laughter, and unwavering kindness. He spent his first year in the quiet village of Ayr before the family settled at Bush’s Inn in Clarkson. Summers were spent on Lake of Bays, a place that always held a special spot in his heart.
As life unfolded, Keith raised his children in Southern Ontario, moving between Hamilton, Stouffville, Richmond Hill, Toronto, Kitchener, Baden, New Dundee, and finally settling in New Hamburg—a community that became home for many years. Later in life, he embraced a new chapter, relocating to Peachland, British Columbia, where he lived with his Beloved and built a life surrounded by the beauty of the Okanagan.
Keith was first and foremost a devoted husband and father. He leaves behind his beloved wife Mary Lynn, with whom he shared a love story like no other. After reconnecting during one of his cross-Canada tours in 2009, Keith and Mary Lynn fell deeply in love and married in a small, intimate ceremony in Peachland in 2021.
Keith’s greatest pride was his family. He had an undying love for his children Fiona, Andrew, and Rachael, and his cherished grandsons Maxwell and Carson. He also embraced his stepchildren Alexander, Charles, and Mathew with open arms. His siblings Heather, James, and Hilary survive him, while he is reunited in spirit with his late siblings Carolyn and David, and his parents Murray and Joanne. He is also remembered by his former wife, Marilyn.
Keith touched countless lives through his gentle nature, sense of humor, and compassionate heart. He taught those around him how to love deeply, spread kindness, and find laughter even in difficult times. Known for his music as Papa Thom, Keith was a beloved folksinger, songwriter, and performer who used his musical platform to give back.
Keith believed in the power of music to make a difference. He toured across Canada, performing fundraisers to support those in need of housing, food, and care. For five winters, he drove coast to coast, cooking meals in homeless shelters and donating guitars—bringing warmth and hope to thousands. His generosity and creativity touched communities far and wide. Later in life, Keith continued his commitment to service by joining Peachland Council and serving as Deputy Mayor, where his leadership and compassion helped shape local government.
Keith believed in looking for the good in people, bridging divides, and building relationships. His legacy is one of music, generosity, and love—a beautiful soul who made the world brighter for everyone he met.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Peachland, BC on January 24th and in New Hamburg, ON in late February. More details to come. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to your local food bank or homeless shelter in Keith’s memory.
–With love and remembrance from Mary Lynn, Fiona, Andrew, Rachael, and family.