Thomas Blair Bonar

It is with broken hearts and deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Thomas “Tommy” Blair Bonar on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Born on April 13, 1958, in Millville, Tommy was a proud Cape Bretoner through and through. From a young age, he found his stride on the ice, playing competitive hockey and travelling throughout the province with various teams. Those years were filled with early mornings, long road trips, and plenty of laughs — the kind of memories that turn teammates into lifelong friends. Hockey wasn’t just a sport to Tommy; it was a brotherhood, and many of those friendships remained close to his heart throughout his life.

A mechanic by trade and a natural-born tinkerer at heart, Tommy had a lifelong passion for anything with an engine. If it roared, rattled, or refused to start, he was determined to figure it out. His garage was his happy place — a space filled with tools, projects, and the unmistakable hum of possibility. He could often be found under the hood of a car, hands busy, mind focused, and likely sharing a story or a joke while he worked. His love of cars wasn’t just a hobby; it was part of who he was.

Tommy was known for his quick wit, easy smile, and fun-loving spirit. He had a way of lightening a room, often with a well-timed comment or a playful grin. He enjoyed good company, good conversation, and the simple pleasures in life. Above all, he cherished his family and friends, holding them close and showing up in the ways that mattered most.

He leaves behind his loving mother, Elizabeth “Betty” (Jessome) Bonar; his brothers, Brian, Jimmy, Victor, Teddy, and Francis; and his sister, Brenda (Jaimie MacDonald). He will be dearly missed by his best friend, Paula Maxwell, whose companionship meant the world to him.

Tommy was a proud and loving father to his daughter, Holly, and his sons, Patrick and Matthew. His grandchildren — Evan, Hailey, Avery, and Rose — brought him immeasurable joy and were a constant source of pride. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Tom Bonar, and his sister, Gail.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 26, from 3–4 p.m. at JM Jobes Funeral Home, 635 Main Street, Sydney Mines. A prayer service and memorial will follow at 4 p.m., officiated by Deacon David Lewis.

All who knew Tommy are encouraged to come, share a story, a smile, and a memory in his honour. Though his passing leaves a deep void, the laughter he shared, the engines he fixed, and the friendships he built will forever keep his spirit running strong.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Blair Bonar, please visit our floral store.