Thomas Emmett Campau

Thomas Emmett Campau, died at Trinity Health Oakland Hospital in Pontiac, Michigan, surrounded by family, on July 3, 2024. He was 77.
Tom was born in Detroit, Michigan to George Emmett Campau and Virginia Harrison Campau on October 30, 1946. He grew up in Livonia and was a graduate of Franklin High School and Schoolcraft College. He was a long-time resident of West Bloomfield and a member of VFW Post 1008 Heart of the Lakes.
Tom enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1966 and rose to the rank of Sergeant during his four years of service to his country. He completed two tours of duty in Vietnam and was awarded many medals and commendations, including a Presidential Citation for extraordinary heroism, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star, and a Presidential Air Medal for meritorious achievement for aerial missions in combat zones.
Upon leaving the military, Tom became an aerial cameraman, director of photography, cinematographer, and filmmaker. His work spanned documentaries, commercials, professional sporting events, and feature films, earning him accolades throughout his career. His projects won numerous awards, including an Academy Award (Oscar) for Best Documentary in 1988 for "Young at Heart," an Emmy in 1987 for "Detroit My Home," a Cine Golden Eagle for Best Sports Documentary in 1976 for "Winners All," and a Gold Caddy Award for Best of Class Director/Cameraman in 1997.
Tom was a man of many interests and talents, known not only for his professional achievements but also as a true adventurer. He was a SCUBA diver, a skydiver, a master parachute rigger, and a skilled pilot, culminating in a National Championship in his T-6 'Mystical Power' at the Reno National Air Races in 2002. He loved music and will always be remembered for his quick wit and infectious smile. Most of all, he will never be forgotten as a man of integrity, his willingness to help those in need, and his love for his family.
Tom is survived by his wife Kathryn (Fica), his sons, Aaron Thomas Campau (Katie) and Robert Emmett Campau (Katherine), his grandchildren Charlie, Amelia, Penelope, and Callan Campau, his brother Patrick Joseph Campau (Shirley), his sister Mary Beth Campau, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.
Family will receive friends Sunday, July 7, 2024 from 2-8PM and Monday, July 8, 2024 from 4-8PM at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Avenue (between 13-14 Mile Roads), Royal Oak, (248) 549-0500.
Funeral Service on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 10AM at the funeral home. Gathering on Tuesday will begin at 9AM.
Burial with Military Honors will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 25800 10 Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48033
~Lovingly written by the family.