Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Thomas DeFer Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
Tom was born in Mt. Clemens on July 6, 1955. He was the twelfth of thirteen children born to Russell and Florence DeFer. After attending L'Anse Creuse High School, he had a long career as a truck driver in various industries. He was also an active sponsor and mentor in Alcoholics Anonymous for over 30 years. He helped dozens of people achieve sobriety and a better life through his unwavering commitment, love, and leadership.
Tom was an avid golfer and passionate Detroit sports fan. He found excitement in the camaraderie and competition with family and friends. His enthusiasm for sports was infectious and his support for his Tigers, Lions, and Wolverines was unwavering.
Tom's legacy is carried on by his sons, Joe (Lindsay) and Bill (Kelsey) and his four grandchildren Carmen, Asa, Sawyer, and Adeline. He is also survived by his siblings, Steven (Jerry), Katherine, Donna, Theresa, and Mary.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local church or youth sports organization. If able, donations can also be made Alcoholics Anonymous, a cause he dedicated his life to serving.
Tom's viewing will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 4:00 -8:00 p.m. at Kaatz Funeral Directors, located at 226 Crocker Blvd, Mt Clemens. Mass will be held at St. Louis Catholic Church on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with an instate at 10:00 a.m. His final resting place will be at St. Peter's Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to "Wishes of the Family".
For more information and tribute wall visit: kaatzfunerals.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Karen Sorgeloos
June 6, 2024
Tom, my over the fence neighbor. It was nice chatting with you while out working on the lawn. I was looking forward to becoming more social with my neighbors when I retired. Unfortunately you had to leave before I got that chance. Thanks for putting up with my rambunctious Labradors. If I saw your lights were out I knew it was time to get them in since your bedroom window was right by my backyard fence. I keep looking out my kitchen window but no more lights and it really hurts my heart. I´m grateful I got the chance to meet both of your wonderful sons. You did an amazing job raising them!
I just have one question Tom. Do you have some pull up there in heaven with the Air Force ??? I´m just wondering because ( I swear to God) 4 jets just flew right over your house and it was absolutely stunning!
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Rosemarie Dishman
June 5, 2024
Tom was a wonderful, caring friend to my husband Ray and I. He became a precious friend and neighbor (we lived across the street from one another on Wood Creek Lane).
After the passing of my husband, Ray, in 2021 Tom took it upon himself to keep checking on me as I was adjusting to life without my husband. We spent many hours talking about Jesus, that was Tom's passion along with sharing the gospel with people attending A.A. and yes, he sure did love Golf and attending Sport events with his friends.
His sons Joe & Bill, their wives and childre were his most definitely his "pride and joy".
Many times he found me so overwhelmed and feeling lost, but he always knew just what to say and always a big hug along with his comfort........
That's how we kind of got into the habit of looking after one another and in turn we developed a wonderful friendship.................
I will miss you, Tom, and I feel so privileged to call you just not my neighbor, but a treasured friend, and a brother in Christ....We lost you too soon, but you left a legacy, that will last a lifetime .......... Rest in Peace my friend... you have earned your crown in heaven!
Love in Christ,
Rose Dishman
Carol Gutowski
June 3, 2024
Tommy and I met early on in sobriety and became instant friends and have remained since then, all our get togethers during the tri-county and state convenstions, multiple anniversary dinners. My greatest memory was of him and I volunteering with McRest one year in New Baltimore, and spent the greatest evening with the community. Tommy would always show up at my son Jons football games, even after his boys were out of school because he loved watching the young people play. All the memories will never replace what a valued friend he was to me and to soo many others. His enthusiam for life was infectious. My brother michael called me one day and said "what is going on?" he said I just met some guy who said he was your husband on sundays and mondays. I laughed and told him it has to be Tommy. I will miss him and all his stories of the grandkids and how proud he was of the boys. Your dad was one of a kind. xoxoxo.
Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results
10 S Main St, Yale, MI 48097
Make a Donation
in Thomas DeFer's name
People and places connected with Thomas
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas DeFer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
