Thomas "Thom" Durfee

Thomas "Thom" Durfee, 70, of Comstock Park, passed away on August 3, 2025. Born on December 25, 1953, Thom lived life on his own terms - straightforward, no frills, and unapologetically himself.

He spent 52 years married to his wife, Leslie, who stood by him through thick and thin. Together they raised three children: Heather (Eric) Pippel, James (Nichole) Durfee, and the late Bridget Connell. Thom was also a grandfather to eight and a great-grandfather to eight more - whether he showed it with words or not, he cared deeply for all of them.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Bridget, his son-in-law William (Bill) Connell Jr., and his great-granddaughter Harper Laliberte - losses that weighed heavy, even if he didn't say much about it.

Thom had a strong interest in trains and spent many hours tinkering with model railroads or watching the real ones go by. He was also a longtime ham radio operator, known by the call sign KI8W, and could often be found chatting with strangers across the airwaves or complaining about radio interference.

He wasn't known for sugarcoating anything. He could be stubborn, opinionated, and at times downright grumpy - but underneath all that, he had a loyal heart and a sharp mind. He showed love in his own quiet ways and left an impression that won't be forgotten.

In honor of Thom, share a memory, tune into a ham radio, or just enjoy a quiet moment - he would've appreciated that more than any big fuss.

Celebration of life will be held September 27th 2:00pm @Wahlfield Park 6811 Alpine Ave Comstock Park MI