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Thomas DeWaal Obituary
Norton Shores
Thomas Lee DeWaal, age 74, son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away Thursday, June 15, 2023, in Grand Rapids, following a year long battle with pancreatic cancer. Tom was born June 1, 1949, to Herbert and Gladys (Newald) DeWaal in Muskegon and was a lifelong resident. He was a tool and die machinist for over 40 years, retiring from IGM. Tom was a U.S. Army veteran, he loved gardening and taking care of his yard. He was handy at almost everything, building, house remodels, he could fix anything. He was also an avid reader (especially history), and enjoyed camping, traveling, and bicycling. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Cheryl (Raymond); three children, Daniel DeWaal, Michael (Christine) DeWaal, and Karen Pawlak; four grandchildren, Trevor DeWaal, Kylie DeWaal, Jake Pawlak, and Varenna DeWaal; sisters, Sandy (Bob) Matz and Marilyn (Jim) Bonner; and special lifelong friend Dave Hoffman. The family is planning a celebration of Tom's life later this summer. Contributions in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries
Mike Natte
June 22, 2023
Tom was a classmate of mine and we hung out in high school. We took a lot of drives to the PM ovals, McDonalds and just about everywhere. Did not know he was ill. Tremendously saddened and praying for comfort for the entire family.
Jackie Wilde
June 19, 2023
Cheryl, so sorry to hear of the loss of Tom.
Debra Schrader
June 18, 2023
My condolences to all that loved him. Treasure the memories he left with you all. Cheryl, I´m so sorry to hear this.
Lynn Foley
June 17, 2023
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father, my heart goes out to you and the kids. My prayers go out to you to give you strength to get through these difficult times
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Deborah Cook
June 17, 2023
PRAYERS and Condolences to the family.
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Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services - The Lee Chapel6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444
People and places connected with Thomas
Muskegon, MI
Muskegon Chronicle
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