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.