A Tribute to Tamara Speziale

The first time I met Tamara she had a fierce spark, introducing herself, she radiated a confidence that was one of a kind. She wasn’t one to out-speak everyone, she sat back, listened, and then gave her opinion. She spoke with determination and pride, and I could instantly see the drive and passion she had for her business and patients. No matter what everyone else was doing, if she felt it wasn’t right for her community, patients and team, she wasn’t doing it. She was a strong advocate with a kind voice who was taken too soon. A big piece of InspiAIR/Northern Respiratory is gone, but certainly not forgotten. She imprinted a small piece of herself in all of us, and she will truly be missed.

It is with profound sadness that we reflect on the passing of our beloved Tamara.

She was a force of nature - a fiercely intelligent, hardworking, and determined leader. Her fearlessness in tackling challenges, both professional and personal, was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to work alongside her. She approached her role with unwavering independence and a sharp intellect that elevated our entire team.

Her recent and courageous battle with cancer was met with the same determination and strength that defined her character. The fact that she continued to lead with such resolve during this time speaks volumes about her incredible fortitude.

While many of us may not have known her personally, the impact of her leadership, her dedication to this career, and her exemplary work ethic is deeply felt. Her legacy is one of resilience, capability, and profound professional integrity.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and to all who were close to her. She will be sincerely missed.

I first met Tamara in 1995, when we were both working for different oxygen and CPAP companies. I remember coming from the sleep lab one day when Tamara waved me into her business to chat. From that moment, we were friends.

Later in our careers, we had the opportunity to work together through a company acquisition. Even later, Tamara called me to come work for her. How could anyone say no to Tamara? She made our company, our community, and our world a better place to live and work. Tamara touched so many lives in such a positive way, mine included.

I will always remember Tamara's kindness and leadership. It was a joy to work with her and to share such a great friendship.

A wise person once said:
- Hate has 4 letters, but so does Love
- Enemies has 7 letters, but so does Friends
- Lying has 5 letters, but so does Truth
- Cry has 3 letters, but so does Joy
- Negativity has 10 letters, but so does Positivity

Life has two sides, and we all know which side Tamara chose.

It's been 30 years since I first met Tamara. A few weeks ago, I had to do one of the hardest things in my life - say goodbye to her.

I will miss you dearly, "Boss", but I will never forget you.

I'm still processing the fact that Tamara is gone. She was a great help and support to me, both professionally and personally.
She once called herself the "black sheep" of the company. I call her smart, funny, positive, strong, brave, tough, resilient, ambitious and determined. I will miss the spice she added into the InspiAIR family. I was always in awe of the way she marched to the beat of her own drum. I found this so admirable. She was so dedicated to her business and it seemed to me there was really nothing she couldn't do.
Tamara, you were so special. You will be missed.

I too had no words. Tamara did what she wanted, when she wanted, whether you liked it or not. She loved who she loved and she was definitely a force to be reconned with. We will all miss her, her wit, her work ethics, her laughter, and her force. Rest in peace my friend. You may be gone, but will never be forgotten.

I have been without words since we received the sad news of Tamara’s passing. I truly appreciate the message everyone has shared. Reading all your responses has been very comforting.
Although I didn’t know Tamara for long, I was immediately drawn to her. I had the opportunity to sit with her during our last meeting. I admired her passion & dedication…Truly an amazing woman.
Looking back, I was completely blown away by the presentation she gave during our meeting, and by the chance we had to hear her radio ad. I remember thinking, what an incredible businesswoman and role model.

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Tamara’s family and to our extended InspiAIR and Northern Respiratory family.

Tamara will forever remain in our thoughts & heart.

Thank you Kostas & to Everyone, for your sincere sympathy & kindness.
It’s extremely sad.
Tamara was a true friend to many & a boss. I have known her for many years & when she came to me & asked me to join her in her new adventure at InspiAIR, I simply said, when would you like me to start !! We have all learned so much from her.
Another Angel on Earth, received her wings to early, to become an Angel in Heaven, to watch over her Family & Friends.
Tamara is Deeply Missed Already,

Sharon Gibbs

I know that in my very short time with InspiAIR that I can not say that I had a special bond with Tamara as many others in our organization did. However, I found her to be incredibly strong-willed and intelligent.

Tamara was a warrior in so many ways ! In my conversations with her over the years , I learned that she was fiercely devoted to her family , her staff and her business . She feared not .. 💕Tamara’s vibrant personality and tenacious spirit was inspiring and made us a little braver in our entrepreneurial walks as owners and managing partners . You were admired and respected Tamara and you will be truly missed by us all 💗🙏

This is a very sad day. My heart goes out to her family. Tamara was one of a kind. She was so helpful and gracious to me over the years when I asked her too many questions about HOP, ADP and especially AR. She really had a handle on every aspect of her business. I'll miss you.
Rest in peace Tamara.
Sue

Such a tremendously sad day.

I remember the first time I met Tamara. Eye of the tiger. She was someone who would be tremendously ally or a feared foe.
She challenged me and when I walked away from our first meeting, I knew she was a force of nature. She had my respect from that moment. She didn’t brook empty words or false promises, and you cannot help but respect a person such as that.

I know I will always remember her when a toast to “Absent friends” is made.

We have lost a great one.

The first time I met Tamara I was just a couple of years into my career at Motion and I heard they hired someone in Peterborough that had been in the industry for a long time. Our first call together I remember her responding to something with " Well that's just not going to work in Peterborough" and I thought to myself, there is a woman who knows what she wants and how she wants it done. That stayed with me throughout the years and helped me ask for the things I wanted or fight for the things I felt were important. I am so glad I got a chance to work more closely with her here at InspiAIR and I am deeply saddened by her passing, as I am sure many of you are.

Tamara always prided herself on her incredible work ethic and taking care of those close to her. Let's remember her for her incredible strength, determination, and loyalty.