- G. Thomas Erhardt, age 87, born August 11, 1931, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 4, 2019. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Mary T. Erhardt; parents, Mary Esther and George J. Erhardt; sisters, Mary Geraldine “Jerre” and Mary Esther; and brother, William G.. Tom is survived by his daughter, Julie A. Erhardt of Arlington, Virginia; sons, Thomas J. (Lori) Erhardt of Traverse City, Michigan, Brian J. (Barbara) Erhardt of Coto de Caza, California and Paul J. (Elisabeth) Erhardt of Naples, Florida; grandchildren, Kathryn, Matthew and Emily Erhardt of Traverse City, Michigan, Benjamin, Michael and Mary Erhardt of Coto de Caza, California and Nicholas and Liesl Erhardt of Naples, Florida; brothers- and sister-in-law, Thomas J. (Gerry) Hogan and Lawrence E. Erhardt, all of Grand Rapids, Michigan and Kenneth Bradford of Grandville, Michigan; several cousins and many nieces and nephews. Tom grew up in Grand Rapids and also lived and enjoyed many years in Spring Lake, Michigan, during which time he served on the Spring Lake Village Council. He was a proud graduate of Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School and of Michigan State University. Tom gave back to others as a member of the Naval Reserve, in fundraising efforts to expand the school at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Grand Rapids and to support the school and parish of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Spring Lake. Tom’s true gift was getting to know people. This gift and his ability to connect someone he newly met with someone he already knew befitted his career in human resources at General Motors. He was also often heard saying, “If you take good care of it, it will last you the rest of your life.” Visitation will be Friday, January 11 from 5-8 PM with the Rosary recited at 7:30 PM at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, and one hour prior to the funeral Mass at church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for Tom at 10 AM on Saturday, January 12 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2750 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids. Rev. Peter Damian presiding with concelebrant Fr. Rock Badgerow. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Contributions may be made in memory of Tom to his elementary school, St. Stephen Catholic School, 740 Gladstone Dr SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506.
4 Responses
My sincere sympathy to the family. Tom and Lori we will keep you in mind and prayers this week. My the Lord watch over all Tom’s loved ones.
So sorry for the loss of Dad and Grandpa! What a beautiful life he lived. Our deepest sympathies ~ it’s not easy losing a parent
John, Debbie, Christopher & Ethan.
We are so very sad at the loss of Grandpa. He was a character and Michelle and I loved the times we would get to be with him. He always gave us joy. The twins enjoyed seeing him also. Such a kind, loving man. We have some special stories we will cherish and many that will make us laugh.
Much love to all, Mary Lynn, Michelle, Amber & Lily XOXOX
My deepest condolences to the Erhardt family. Your family are in my thoughts and prayers.