Thomas Vais passes away; Knox College expresses condolences
With deep sadness Knox College received the news that the Rev. Tom Vais died suddenly at home on Sunday, September 20, 2020. Tom was the beloved husband of the Rev. Dr. Heather Vais and father of Brett and Elizabeth. He was the son of the Rev. Dr. George Vais and the late Faith Vais, brother of the late Rev. Dr. Chris Vais (Susan McLeod), Nancy (Lyndon Brown) and Michelle, and part of a large extended loving family, and a dear friend. Since 2007 Tom has been part of a team ministry with Heather at Thornhill Presbyterian Church.
Tom graduated with a B.A. in Religious Studies from the University of Winnipeg and was a 1990 M.Div. graduate of Knox College. After graduation he served from 1990 – 2007 at Caledonia Presbyterian Church before moving to Thornhill. In addition to congregational ministry, Tom served on many boards and committees of the National Church. He served on Assembly Council, Canada Ministries Advisory Council, and was for a term the Convenor of the Committee on Education and Reception. Tom was the Moderator of the Presbytery of Hamilton in 2005 and the Presbytery of Oak Ridges in 2012.
“It is very difficult to find words to express our shock and sadness at Tom’s passing,” said Principal John Vissers. “Tom was a wonderful colleague and friend to so many, a faithful and respected minister, and a serious follower of Jesus Christ. He represented the best of what we hope for in our graduates. This is a huge loss.”
Find funeral service streaming information here.