Obituaries
Lane Jeffrey Arthur Collier
Lane Jeffrey Arthur Collier, just 18 months old, passed away far too soon, leaving behind a lifetime of love in the brief but beautiful time he was here. A Miracle Baby, Lane was born on October 15, 2024, in Lansing, the son of Charles and Tara (Shumaker) Collier. Lane was a bright and radiant little boy whose presence could light up any room. His personality was truly unforgettable, bubbly and full of joy, angelic in his innocence, with just the right touch of spice that made everyone smile. He was a happy, energetic child who was always on the move, exploring the world around him with curiosity and excitement.
Though his time on earth was short, Lane made a profound impact on all who knew and loved him. His laughter was contagious, his spirit was vibrant, and his love was pure. He brought endless joy to his family and will always be remembered for the happiness he shared so freely. Lane enjoyed playing with his trucks, trains, his toy farm, riding in his remote controlled Jeep, shooting hoops, listening to the windchimes, and tending to the chickens daily with his little bucket.
Lane is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his family, whose hearts he filled completely. His memory will live on in every smile, every moment of joy, and every cherished memory they hold close.
Though we wish we had more time, we are grateful for every second we were given with sweet Lane. He will remain our precious angel, forever in our hearts.
Lane is survived by his parents, Charles and Tara; sister, Olivia Grace Collier; grandparents, Daneen Shumaker, Debra (Pancho) Smith, Jeff Jack, and Dent Collier; uncles, Travis (Lexie) Shumaker and Jason (Kari) Collier; aunt, Tammy (Doug) Smith; great-grandparents, Janice (Barry Baba) Finn and Barbara Rondeau; cousins, Adalynn, Tucker, Macey, Hunter, Kaycee, and Grady; and numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his Grampy, Jeffrey Shumaker; and great-grandparents, Arthur and Lavon Lowry.
Friends are encouraged to support Lane’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Hogle officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11 a.m. until noon. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Lanes’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
William A. Cooper
William A. Cooper, 80, of Charlotte, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away April 11, 2026. William was born May 16, 1945, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Hugh F. and Almary E. (Root) Cooper. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1968, attaining the rank of E3.
Following his service, he built a strong and steady work ethic throughout his career, retiring from A.E. Hoover, Pinkerton Security at General Motors, Meijer where he worked as a supervisor, and Eaton County Transportation Authority (EATRAN) where he served as a bus driver. On August 1, 1970, Bill married Martha, and together they built a life centered on love and family, raising their son, Andrew.
Bill enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, golfing, playing cards, or pursuing his interest in firearms. As his health declined, he found comfort in quieter pastimes such as word puzzles and watching television. He was a proud member of the VFW, a former member of the American Legion, and Eagles, and he cherished the camaraderie those organizations provided. Bill also loved to travel, especially to destinations near the water. Above all, family was at the heart of Bill’s life, and the time he spent with them brought him his greatest joy.
William is survived by his wife of 55 years, Martha; son, Andrew (Michelle) Cooper; two granddaughters, Macie Kay (Karter) Whitsel and Ellie Nicole Cooper; great-grandson, Huddson; and brothers-in-law, Bill Groleau and Roger McDonald; and numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family members. He was predeceased by his sisters, Nancy McDonald and Linda Groleau; his brothers, Richard Cooper and Robert Cooper; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support William’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. A Memorial Service was held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will follow with military honors at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on William’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care or the American Diabetes Association. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Beverly Jean Hadley
Beverly Jean Hadley of Charlotte, 88, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026. She was the daughter of Ernest and Anna Wright, born January 17, 1938. In 1956 she married the love of her life Charles Hadley and had four children. She was a wonderful loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, daughter, and friend.
She worked hard alongside her husband raising their four children, running a 200-acre farm, co-owner of South End Grocery and serving as an active member of First Lutheran Church. She was the center and anchor of her family and loved family get togethers. She was kind to everyone and at mealtime all were welcome. She encouraged all to love one another and to love Jesus. She loved to play games, sharp at euchre and got many Yahtzee and bingo’s and later learned to play golf with her sisters. She enjoyed nature, watching birds and deer, and always looked forward to the spring purple phlox. One of her favorite holidays was Christmas time and she always remembered birthdays, sending cards and faithfully signing “God Loves You and So Do I.” Her love and influence will be sorely missed.
Beverly is survived by her four children, Kim (Bud) Kruszka, Chuck (Tiva) Hadley, Sally (Rod) Magoon, and Scott (Bonnie) Hadley; 16 grandchildren: Marshall Magoon, Christopher (friend Tonya) Magoon, Jessica Hadley, Tim Lenhard, Mitchell (Jen) Magoon, Tia (Ray) Armstrong, Ty (Brianna) Hadley, Nikolaus (friend Eliza) Kruszka, Samantha Dumond, Kaity Loveland and Alex Cummings; 13 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; and friends, Bobbie, Diane and Bryce Lake. She was preceded in death by husband Charles Hadley; and grandchildren Charles (Chuckie) Hadley III, Jeremiah Hadley; and great-grandchild Charles Hadley IV.
She is also survived by her sisters, Janet Bryner and Sally Buckley; and brother-in-law Richard Phelan.
Special thanks and gratitude to Eaton County Gardens Long Term Care Facility and Rehabilitation for the love and care she received over the past few months.
Friends are encouraged to support Beverly’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Ty Hadley officiating. Interment will take place at Deepdale Cemetery in Lansing, Michigan. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Beverly’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Service Activity Fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Glenwood Dale McNeil
Glenwood Dale McNeil, a devoted educator and cherished member of the Charlotte community, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan. He was born on January 27, 1935, in Hillsdale, Michigan, the son of John Wesley and Althea P. (Moore) McNeil.
Glenwood’s early years in Hillsdale laid the foundation for a life of achievement and service. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1953, demonstrating the diligence and perseverance that would characterize his entire career. Pursuing higher education, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University and went on to further his expertise with a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State College. His academic accomplishments underscored his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Before embarking on his long and impactful teaching career, Glenwood served his country honorably in the United States Army. This period of service reflected his sense of duty and patriotism, traits that would define much of his life’s work. On September 3, 1960, he married Retta Cundiff, a partnership of love and devotion for over 64 years.
Glenwood devoted his entire professional career to educating the youth of Charlotte as a school teacher within the Charlotte Public Schools. Known for his hard work, dedication, and remarkable intellect, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, students, and the community alike. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he shaped countless lives and helped build a foundation of knowledge, character, and curiosity in the younger generations.
Outside of his educational pursuits, Glenwood was deeply passionate about farming and animal husbandry. He bred, trained, and raced Standardbred horses, a hobby that combined his love for animals and competitive spirit. His interests also included farming and raising cattle, activities that connected him to the land and the rural way of life he cherished.
Glenwood was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Retta; and siblings, Ardis Perrin, Larry McNeil, Phyllis Bates, John McNeil, Daryl McNeil.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and very special friends the Craig and Cindy Snyder family.
In keeping with Glenwood’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Glenwood’s honor to Humane World for Animals 1255 23rd Street NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.
To view Glenwood’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com. The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
, a devoted educator and cherished member of the Charlotte community, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan. He was born on January 27, 1935, in Hillsdale, Michigan, the son of John Wesley and Althea P. (Moore) McNeil.
Glenwood’s early years in Hillsdale laid the foundation for a life of achievement and service. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1953, demonstrating the diligence and perseverance that would characterize his entire career. Pursuing higher education, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University and went on to further his expertise with a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State College. His academic accomplishments underscored his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Before embarking on his long and impactful teaching career, Glenwood served his country honorably in the United States Army. This period of service reflected his sense of duty and patriotism, traits that would define much of his life’s work. On September 3, 1960, he married Retta Cundiff, a partnership of love and devotion for over 64 years.
Glenwood devoted his entire professional career to educating the youth of Charlotte as a school teacher within the Charlotte Public Schools. Known for his hard work, dedication, and remarkable intellect, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, students, and the community alike. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he shaped countless lives and helped build a foundation of knowledge, character, and curiosity in the younger generations.
Outside of his educational pursuits, Glenwood was deeply passionate about farming and animal husbandry. He bred, trained, and raced Standardbred horses, a hobby that combined his love for animals and competitive spirit. His interests also included farming and raising cattle, activities that connected him to the land and the rural way of life he cherished.
Glenwood was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Retta; and siblings, Ardis Perrin, Larry McNeil, Phyllis Bates, John McNeil, Daryl McNeil.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and very special friends the Craig and Cindy Snyder family.
In keeping with Glenwood’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Glenwood’s honor to Humane World for Animals 1255 23rd Street NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037.
To view Glenwood’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com. The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Geneva Mary Butler
Geneva Mary Butler who was born on March 29, 1924, in Vermontville, Michigan, daughter of the late Carl and Ethel (Chapman) French and the wife of the late Glen Butler, passed away on April 11, 2026, at the age of 102.
Geneva was an employee of the State of Michigan Health Department from which she retired after 21 years of service. Previously she was employed at General Aluminum (Carefree Products) and had also worked as a cook at the Holiday Home. Geneva truly embodied the spirit of the Greatest Generation through her hard work, sacrifices, values and devotion to her family
Geneva belonged to the Charlotte Rebekah Lodge No. 68, where she held many positions from Warden to Noble Grand; she volunteered at Hayes-Green-Beach Hospital (now University of Michigan Sparrow Eaton) Gift Shop and for blood drives with the American Red Cross. Geneva was a member of New Hope Community Church. Throughout her lifetime she remained close with her brothers and sisters and enjoyed family get togethers. She and Glen loved camping and enjoyed traveling with family, friends and their camping club throughout Michigan.
Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Glenna (Ronald) Curtis, William (Amy) Butler, and Nancy (Colin) Davis; eight grandchildren, Ronald Curtis II, Christian (Marie) Curtis, Leroy (Wanda) Butler, James Butler, Kristina (Lee) Meeker, Theresa (Martin) Vedder, Angela Joslyn, and Colin Davis II; 14 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. All whom within her extended family knew they could rely on her for her support and generosity when needed. She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Glen; son, James; infant great granddaughter, Kimberly Butler; sister and brother-in-law Phoebe and Clarence (JC) Clouse; sister and brother-in-law, Lola and Edward Magoon, brother and sister-in-law, Carl (Roy) and Margaret French, and brother and sister-in-law, George and Sharon French.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Eaton County Rehabilitation Services for their kindness and care given to her.
Friends are encouraged to support Geneva’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is 11 a.m. to noon, Monday, April 20, 2026. Funeral services are Monday, April 20, 2026 at noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Randy Royston officiating. Interment will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Geneve’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to New Hope Community Church, Eaton Community Palliative Care or a charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Lynned Russell Mosier
Lynned Russell Mosier, age 78, of Roscommon, died on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Grayling, Michigan, in the presence and comfort of his family.
Lynn was born September 18, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Louis and Dorothy (Riedl) Mosier.
Lynn married Debra Stafford on July 5, 2005.
Raised on a farm in Charlotte, Michigan, Lynn knew the meaning of hard work and living off the land. He often said there was so much work it was hard to get his schoolwork done. Lynn was drafted into the Army and flew to Vietnam on September 18, 1967, on his 20th birthday. He served in the 8th artillery 25th infantry (Tropic Lightning) Division in Vietnam.
Lynn took a job with General Motors when he returned home from the Vietnam war. He worked for GM for 38 years. He enjoyed working in skilled trades, maintaining, and repairing equipment. Lynn was a strong father figure, who made sure that his daughters, Lisa and Jessica, had what they needed and taught them life skills, like how to change a car tire. Whenever the girls visited, Lynn loved making his strawberry syrup, that was served on waffles with whipped cream. Lynn had a love of cars, fast ones and old ones. He could walk through an antique car show naming the year and model of most. Outside is where you usually found Lynn. When he wasn’t chopping wood, hunting, or fishing, he was helping his neighbors putting up siding or repairing a lawn mower or automobile. In the spring, summer, and fall, he mowed grass, blew leaves, and maintained a beach front for the neighborhoods we lived in. Lynn will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and good friend.
Lynn will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie, of 20 years; daughters: Lisa (Bill) Schutt, Jessica Mosier; stepdaughters: Katie (Nathan) Southern and Meredith (Henry) Muehlhausen; granddaughters, Autumn (Logan) Bragdon and Jasmine Schutt; Step-grandsons, Llewyn, Monty, and Griffin; sisters, Linda, Suzanne, Sibyl, and Kim; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Lynn is preceded in death by his parents, Louis F. Mosier, and Dorothy M. Riedl, and his brother Steven.
Family and friends will gather for a Military Honors Service on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at noon, with an hour of gathering prior, at Grayling Moose Lodge 1162, 7970 South Grayling Road, Grayling, Michigan 49738.
Lynn will be laid to rest at Gresham Cemetery of Chester Township, Eaton County, Michigan, at a later date.
If so desired, the family prefers memorial contributions be made in Lynn’s name to Northern Pines Assisted Living, 130 Mary Ann Street, Grayling, Michigan 48653.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon. Please share a memory or a message online at wagnerfunerals.com
Michael “Mike” John Eisenlohr, 70, of South Haven, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Kalamazoo, surrounded by the family who loved him so deeply, following a hard-fought battle with glioblastoma.
Mike was born in Lansing on July 6, 1955, to Robert L. Eisenlohr and Patricia D. (Postema). From an early age, he built a life centered around family, friendship, and the simple joys that meant the most to him.
He graduated from Bear Lake High School and went on to attend Ferris State University, earning his bachelor’s degree, later continuing his education at Aquinas College where he obtained his master’s degree.
Mike spent many years working at Care Free General Aluminum in Charlotte, where he formed lasting friendships and met the love of his life and devoted companion, Carmen. Together, Mike and Carmen went on to manage several recreational vehicle supply companies, including Blue Star Supply, Marlene Sine and Associates, and Fasteners Unlimited in South Haven up until his retirement.
Mike was a man who truly enjoyed life. He was an avid golfer who loved the game and the camaraderie that came with it, competing in the Golf Week Amateur Tour and celebrating several wins along the way. He also found peace and happiness in the outdoors—whether hunting, fishing, or traveling out west and up north, he was always happiest surrounded by nature, good friends and family. Beyond his hobbies, Mike will be remembered most for his easygoing spirit, kindness, and his ability to make friends wherever he went. He had a wide circle of friends and a close-knit family who meant everything to him, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
He was a proud member of the South Haven Moose Lodge, the American Legion, South Haven Rod and Gun Club, and the River Bend Boat Club, where he shared many good times and built lifelong connections.
Mike is survived by his loving mother, Patricia; his life companion, Carmen K. Sine; and his children, Jason (Brenda) Eisenlohr, Jamie (Mike) Gurski, and Jodie (Josh) Husted. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Timothy, Alyssa, Trevor, Randall, Kaiden, Braylon, and Lileigh, and great-grandfather to Cyris. He is also survived by his sister Deborah Eisenlohr; his twin brother Mark (Judy) Eisenlohr; niece Nisha; nephews Jared and Nicholas; and many extended family members and dear friends. He shared a special bond with his best friends, Brian (Diane) and Nick (Mel), who were like family to him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and his beloved grandson, Andrew James “AJ.”
Mike will be remembered for the love he gave so freely, the friendships he cherished, and the lasting impact he had on everyone who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In memory of Mike, memorial donations may be made to the Glioblastoma Research Organization (gbmresearch.org) or Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation, 530 Beech St., Charlotte, MI 48813. Those wishing to share a memory of Mike may do so at www.starksfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel of Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.
Alan Carl Durham
Alan Carl Durham, 87, of Charlotte, a man whose life was defined by quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family, died April 13, 2026. Alan was born on October 22, 1938, in Durand, Michigan to Charles and Margaret (Reick) Durham. Alan graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1956.
In 1959, Alan married the love of his life, Mary Jane, whose father became a valued mentor to him in the skilled trades. He began his career at Allied Products in Hillsdale, Michigan, and later continued his work in skilled trades with General Motors
Above all, Alan was a devoted husband and an extraordinary father. Together with his wife, he opened his heart and home in a remarkable way – serving as foster parents to 25 children, while also raising their two beloved children. To each child who entered his life, Alan offered stability, guidance, patience, and unconditional love. His family will miss hearing his familiar and heartfelt closing words, “Thanks for callin’,” a simple phrase that meant so much and now holds even greater meaning.
Alan’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He loved the Lord deeply and encouraged those around him to seek comfort and strength in prayer. His quiet example spoke volumes – he lived his beliefs daily, never seeking recognition, never complaining, and always choosing grace. He had a passion for history and learning. He could often be found watching the History Channel, absorbing stories of the past with genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. This love extended to his travels, as he enjoyed visiting presidential homes, historical landmarks, and meaningful places that connected him to the nation’s heritage. Alan also cherished time spent traveling, especially his trips to Florida, where he found rest, joy, and special memories with loved ones.
Alan is survived by his children, Robert (Billie Jo) Durham and Cathy Reed; foster children, Ryan and Tanisha (Dre) Jefferson; brother, Robert Durham; grandchildren, Cody Durham, Chad (Nicolette) Durham, Korin Steen, Kayla Dysard, Martina and Corey Biddinger, Mary (fiancé, Ben Sawade) Reed; and great-grandchildren, Cameron, Paiden, Madisyn, Dalton, Leah, Bailey, Parker, Conner, Kylar, Tucker, Morgan, Tanner, Sheppard. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane; brothers Charles and Sam Durham; and sisters, Alice Richards and Helen Robins.
Friends are encouraged to support Alan’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, April 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Funeral services were Friday, April 17 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Church and Helping Hands. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Mitchell Carl Simons
Mitchell Carl Simons of Eaton Rapids passed away April 4, 2026, at the age of 76. Mitchell was born in Big Rapids, Michigan, August 2, 1949, to Carl and Ardena (Nelson) Simons. He was a graduate of Leslie High School Class of 1969. Mitchell worked and retired from Ranch Life Plastics. He served with the Army Reserves and the National Guard for 20 years earning the National Defense Service Medal as a sharpshooter and marksman.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching NASCAR races, gardening, canning, searching for treasures with his metal detector, was an avid MSU Spartan fan and horseshoe player. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, and as a handyman, helping others when they needed it.
Mitchell is survived by his wife, Evelyn Simons; children, Michael Simons of Eaton Rapids, Heather Allen of Eaton Rapids, William Smith of Lansing; grandchildren, Mariah Simons, Alexandra Ringo, William Simons, Owen Simons, Halle Simons, Lindsay Lampson, Tayler (Steven) Allen, Landon (Sydney) Allen, Ciara (Brett) Chamberlain, Autumn Doxtader; 11 great grandchildren; brothers, Charles Simons, Daniel Carl Simons; sisters, Jackie Howe and Shirley Mueller, as well as many nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Richard, John and Jim Simons; nephews, Mark Mueller and Johnathan Simons and brother in laws, Alex Mueller and Clair Howe.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday April 11, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 S. Main St. Eaton Rapids. Visitation will take place before the service from noon to 1p.m. Interment will be held in Rosehill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1755 Abbey Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823. Please visit our website to place online condolences, www.millsfuneral.com.
Thomas Marion Opoka
Thomas Marion Opoka of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the age of 85.
Tom was born on October 31, 1940, in Hamtramck, Michigan, to Joseph and Florence (Mengel) Opoka. He was raised in Hamtramck and graduated from Pershing High School. Following graduation, Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Detroit and attended the University of Detroit, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.
On May 18, 1973, Tom married the love of his life, Carol Alsobrooks. In 1977, Tom and Carol moved their family out of the Detroit area to Eaton Rapids where they bought a small farm. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, while raising their two daughters.
Tom dedicated many years of service to the State of Michigan, working as a mobile home auditor until his retirement in 2002. In retirement, he and Carol cherished spending their winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Tom was a devoted member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Eaton Rapids for many years.
He had a deep love for sports, especially cheering on the Michigan Wolverines and Detroit’s professional teams. Tom also enjoyed his monthly casino outings with Carol. Above all, he will be remembered for his warm personality, his love for family, and his remarkable ability to tell a great story.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Andrew Opoka; and his sister, Laura Ostrowski.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Carol; his daughters, Kelly (Terry) Vandenbrink and Leanne (Damon) Lange; his grandchildren, Madison Lange, Makenna Lange, Kaitlyn Vandenbrink, and Nicholas Vandenbrink; and his great-granddaughter, Genevieve Vandenbrink. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery following the Mass at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Tom’s memory.
To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.