Friends Unite for Inaugural Mike Thomas Memorial Walk in Sooke

A community of friends and family will gather in Sooke, Canada, on October 5, 2024, to honor the memory of Mike Thomas, a beloved member of the Sooke Lions Club and advocate for the Sooke Hospice Society. The inaugural Mike Thomas Memorial Walk aims to raise funds and awareness for the hospice that provided vital support to Thomas during his battle with brain cancer.

Known for his dedication to the community, Thomas spent over 40 years as a member of the Sooke Lions and was instrumental in various local initiatives. His commitment to the Sooke Hospice Society was particularly notable; he often referred to it as his favorite charity, dedicating himself to raising funds for its cause. In his final days, the hospice helped ensure Thomas’ comfort and care, allowing him to spend quality time with his family.

The event will begin at 8 a.m. from Edward Milne Community School, located at 6218 Sooke Road. Participants can register for $25, which includes a commemorative T-shirt and a pancake breakfast following the walk. Registration forms can be found at sookelions.com, and participants are encouraged to gather pledges to support the hospice.

Al Beddows, the walk coordinator, shared his connection to Thomas, recalling how he became a member of the Sooke Lions through Thomas’ encouragement. “Mike got me in Lions 35 years ago, which I’ll never forgive him for,” Beddows remarked humorously. The two became close friends, often commuting together after Beddows relocated to Sooke in 1990.

Throughout his life, Thomas was known for his community spirit, serving as the town crier for 25 years and playing a significant role in organizing Sooke’s bicentennial celebration in 1990. His philanthropic efforts extended beyond the hospice; he also supported various organizations such as the Sooke Salmon Enhancement Society, Sooke Harbour Cemetery, and the Sooke Food Bank.

Beddows emphasized Thomas’ generosity, stating, “We hear these comments about the ‘guy that will give you the shirt off his back’ — that was Mike, for sure. It put a big hole in our club when he passed away, thus we’re doing this memorial walk for him.”

The Sooke Hospice Society provides crucial end-of-life care for palliative patients and their families, focusing on enabling individuals to remain in their homes as long as possible. The organization also offers dedicated care beds at Ayre Manor, underscoring its commitment to compassionate support during challenging times.

This memorial walk not only honors Thomas’ legacy but also strengthens community ties while benefiting a cause that was close to his heart. For further information about the event, interested individuals can email [email protected] as the community prepares to celebrate the life and contributions of Mike Thomas.