Thomas Cartwright Mentzer

1934 - 2016

ADRIAN - Thomas Cartwright Mentzer, age 81, of Adrian died suddenly at his home April 12, 2016.

Tom was born in Wilmington, Del., on Sept. 10, 1934. He was the only child of Charles T. and Helen L. (Wolfe) Mentzer.

Tom graduated from high school in New Jersey and continued his education at Williams College, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree and Lehigh University where he earned a Master of Science degree in geology. In 1963, he received the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in mineralogy and geochemistry from Lehigh University.

In June of 1966, Thomas and R. Meredith "Mitsy" Mills were married at the First Congregational Church of West Hartford, Connecticut, and they have been blessed with almost 50 years together.

Tom became professor of geology at Trinity College in Connecticut, Dickinson College in Pennsylvania, and most recently Adrian College. In 1971, he was employed by the city of Adrian as an engineer in the Utilities Department and, later, as a computer programmer/analyst until his retirement in 1997.

He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Adrian. Other interests included sailing, skiing, woodworking, golf, rocks and minerals, travel and computing.

In addition to his wife, Mitsy, he is survived by their children, Elizabeth Wickey of Royal Oak, Charles (Stefanie) Mentzer of Northville and Alice (Marc) Beckley of Portland, Ore.; and five grandchildren, Rachel Wickey, Charles Mentzer II, Alexander, Zachary and Katherine Mentzer. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial services will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, April 18, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Drew Hart officiating. The family will receive friends at the church Monday, from 10:30 a.m. until the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First United Methodist Church or the donor's charity of choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.