WHICHARD, THOMAS. F.
1/21/1928 – 3/8/20
Preceded in death by beloved wife, Jean M. Whichard; devoted father to Susan (Dan “Pat”) Babin of Grandville, MI, and John T. (Nancy) Whichard of Coto de Caza, CA; Loving grandfather to Drew (Sarah) Babin, Jenn (Rob) Moynihan, Kathryn “Katie” (Ken) Landry, and Johnny Whichard; Step-grandfather to Michael (Amanda) Babin and Derek (Cara) Babin; and enough great-grandchildren to keep him forever young. An unwavering patriot, Tom served as an ROTC commander and a Marine Corps Staff Sargent during WWII. Studies at Wayne State and Cornell Universities contributed to his success as an executive in the metals service center industry. Tom is also survived by many lifelong friends and those at Cascade Country Club with whom he laughed, dined, golfed and played gin. He was a mentor and inspiration to many, the ultimate optimist, and no one would argue that “Everyone loved Tommy.” Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 11 from 6-8 pm at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids. Funeral service will be held Thursday, March 12 at 10:30 am at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, Rev. Leonard Sudlik officiating, with the family greeting friends and family at 10:00 am. Private interment will take place at Graceland Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Wounded Warrior Project, P O Box 758517, Topeka, KS. 66675.
6 Responses
I am sorry that I can’t attend your celebration of life but I will be thinking of you. You truly were the alternate optimist. All of us at Cascade will miss you. May you Rest In Peace my friend.
Tom was one of the finest people I have ever had the pleasure to know. A true gentleman, great story-teller ,unwavering patriot and generous, giving soul. We loved him and will miss this special man. May you rest in peace forevermore.
Tom was one of the friendliest and nicest guys I ever met. He will be missed. We are sorry that we are in Florida and will not be able to attend the memorial service. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family.
We enjoyed seeing his smiling face weekly at Longhorn steakhouse. He will be missed.
We were sad to hear of Tom’s passing, we will miss his friendly smile and his endearing wit! Since we are in Florida we won’t be able to attend the memorial service but our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest In Peace sweet Tommy, you’re with the angels now.
Tom was one of my favorite regulars at Longhorn, I’ll miss seeing his smiling face and hearing his stories and words of encouragement.