Michael Tomlinson

SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL -- Michael Kevin Tomlinson 66, died unexpectedly yet peacefully in his paradise home, in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida on May 23, 2024. He was born to D. Jean Tomlinson "Fisher" and Robert Charles Tomlinson on March 30, 1958 in Lima, Ohio.

Mike is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 46 years, Diane K. Tomlinson "Darbyshire"; his three children, Corey (Kelly) Tomlinson of Toledo, Ohio, Lauren Tomlinson, and Abbey (Nicole Portillo) Tomlinson of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and three cherished granddaughters, Norah and Eliza Tomlinson and Ryen Terry. He is also survived by brothers, Greg (Valerie) Tomlinson and David (Landa) Tomlinson; sister, Jill (Jeff) Gruber; sisters-in-law, Linda (Gary) Kerr, Deb (Mitch) Sadler, and Lori Van de Veire; sixteen nephews and nieces; and every Darbyshire descendant and friend who vacations at Indian River, Michigan. Also calling him Dad and Papa are Terelle, and Terelle Jr., Te'Andre, and Aryana Terry. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Gene (Diana) Darbyshire, Joan (Richard) Peggs,and his brother in-law Jim Van de Viere.

Mike was the 1976 All-Sports King at Bath High School and was the first athlete from Bath to compete in the State Track and Field Championships, competing in the 120 yard high hurdles. Following high school graduation, he briefly attended Bowling Green State University before marrying Diane on November 26, 1977, and going to work in the Tomlinson Motor Service family business for several years. Mike had many talents, but found his calling in the Oil Refining Industry in 1998.

He retired as a supervisor from Cenovus Energy Lima Refinery's South LIU in April, 2022, but true to form, never stopped working.

He was always a devoted member of his local faith community, most recently as a member of the Destiny Worship Center, where he served on the usher team.

Mike devoted his unfairly brief retirement to remodeling "The Compound" and most importantly, serving as the best "Papa" his grandchildren could have dreamed of.

To all who knew him, Mike was always kind, always generous to a fault, always happy to see you, and always willing to lend a helping hand. We could all be more like Mike.

The family will hold a celebration of life, when they return to Lima, Ohio in the fall.

The family wishes to thank Davis-Watkins Funeral Home for their grace and assistance during this difficult time. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to https://debsdogs.org/lend-a-hand or https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org.