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Thomas DePew Obituary
BIG RAPIDS -- Thomas A. DePew, 65, of Big Rapids, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2018.
He was born March 31, 1953, in Big Rapids, the son of Lawrence and Margaret (Kailing) DePew, and attended St. Mary Catholic School. In 1972, Tom graduated from Big Rapids High School.
For more than 30 years, Tom worked as a custodian for Big Rapids Public Schools, retiring in 2010. He impacted the lives of many students and staff with his gentle way and words of encouragement. After retiring, Tom worked part time for the city of Big Rapids and also Jim Bouman Well Service.
Tom was a lifetime member and supporter of St. Mary Catholic Church and School. He loved harness racing, both as a trainer and a driver. Most of all, Tom loved to stay in touch with family and friends, and doting on his grandchildren.
On Oct. 20, 1973, Tom married Bonnie Mehl, who preceded him in death in 2011. Surviving are their three children, Lisa (Larry) Schuberg, of Hersey, Jeff (Alisa), of Livingston, Montana, and David (Ana), of Grayling; eight grandchildren, Caiden and Cooper Schuberg, Tyler, Coltyn, Karter, Kendall and Madilyn and Landyn DePew; two brothers, Mike (Sally) DePew and Father Daniel DePew, of Big Rapids; three sisters-in-law, Cheryl and Joann DePew and Norma (Con) Racey-Oren; brother-in-law, John Mehl; many nieces and nephews; and his Currie and Kailing cousins.
He also was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Otto and Dorothy Mehl; and his brothers, Ron and Karl DePew.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids, with his brother, Father Dan DePew, as celebrant. Burial will be in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Tom's family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 16, at St. Mary's Church, with the Rosary service beginning at 7:30 p.m., and after 10 a.m. on Thursday until time of services. Memorial contributions in Tom's name may be made to St. Mary Catholic School.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas DePew
2 Entries
Ross Eardley
January 15, 2019
We send our heartfelt sympathy and love to the entire DePew family. We are praying for you all, and hope for comfort for you in this difficult time. Tom was a wonderful man who will be missed by so many.
All our love,
Ross, Amanda, Kyran, Cormac & Margaret Eardley
CP
January 14, 2019
Heartfelt condolences to the DePew family. Be as strong as his faith in God's promises. Isa.25:8
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Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home128 S Warren Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307-1844
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