Thomas Carl Kunkel

Thomas Carl Kunkel of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at the age of 69. Tom was born on May 4, 1953, in Eaton Rapids, MI the fourth of six children born to Emanuel Vasquez and Eleanor Kunkel. He was raised by his grandparents, Fred and Laura Kunkel on the Kunkel Onion Farms in Eaton Rapids. Tom graduated from Eaton Rapids High School class of 1971. He started his professional career as a drywaller, operating Kunkel Drywall and eventually moved to General Motors where he worked as a lineman and team coordinator and retired in 2009. Tom was a proud member of the UAW; a sports enthusiastic and avid fan of the Michigan State Spartans and his hometown Detroit teams. He had an almost unhealthy passion for the game of golf and rarely missed his Friday afternoon round with his brother. Tom also enjoyed horse racing and was passionate about music especially classic rock. He was above all a devoted husband, father and loyal friend whose memory will be cherished by those who loved him.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Valerie (Belfiori) Kunkel and his parents.
Tom is survived by his children, Ian Kunkel, Helen Kunkel; brothers, Ernie (Julie) Kunkel, Rick (Darlene) Kunkel; sisters, Lori Kunkel-Fischer, Ruby (Michael) Wendling, Margaret (Thomas) Lovell; aunt, June Kunkel and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Habitat for Humanity in memory of Tom. To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com