Thomas Neil Carlen

Thomas Neil Carlen, a resident of Shelby Township since 1983, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at the age of 78.
Tom was born on May 17, 1947, in Mount Clemens, Michigan, to the late Warren and Erma Carlen. He was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Utica High School. Following high school, Tom began a dedicated and hardworking career with Ford Motor Company, where he worked as a forklift operator for over 40 years. A proud member of UAW Local 400, he remained with Ford until his retirement on February 1, 2007.
Above all else, Tom's family and loved ones were the center of his life. He was a man of faith and lived with kindness, patience, and quiet strength. He shared over 40 loving years with his significant other, Darlene Rinnert, who was truly his soulmate. Tom was a devoted and present father and an exceptional grandfather who lovingly helped care for his grandchildren as they were growing up, forming deep and lasting bonds with each of them.
In his free time, Tom found peace and happiness "up north" at his property in Wolverine, Michigan. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed nature, the quiet of the woods, and time spent outdoors, which brought him great joy throughout his life.
Tom is survived by his significant other, Darlene Rinnert; his children, Kelly Louwsma and Anna-Marie (Mark) Gabbard; and his beloved grandchildren, Randi Gabbard, Justin Louwsma, Taylor Gabbard, Autumn Gabbard, Megan (Tyler) McDowell, Kassidy Louwsma, Dakota Eckart, and Austin Rinnert. He is also survived by Darlene's children, Eric (Colleen) Rinnert and family, and Holly (Jason) Lofredo.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Erma Carlen, and by his siblings, Warren Carlen and Janet Tacia.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Gramer Funeral Home, Diener Chapel, located at 48271 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan 48317. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.