Thomas Carl Gehrs

Thomas Carl Gehrs, a man of profound faith and love, was called home by his Lord and Savior on February 8, 2026. Born on December 27, 1930, in New Rome, Wisconsin, Thomas's journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and the joy of music and nature.

Thomas's life was one of commitment - to his country, to education, and most importantly, to his family and God. After serving for nine years in the United States Navy, Thomas pursued his passion for learning and teaching, obtaining a master's degree in education. He imparted knowledge and inspired creativity as an Industrial Arts teacher, shaping the minds and skills of countless students.

Loving music from an early age, Thomas's singing and playing of string instruments, the recorder, and the harmonica, brought joy to all who heard him. Whether in the quiet of his home, around a campfire, or in front of an audience, his melodies were a testament to his faith and fun-filled life.

Thomas delighted in the outdoors, whether canoeing, kayaking, hunting, or trail-riding by horseback, snowmobile, 4-wheeler, or motorcycle. He was a steward of God's creation, reveling in the tranquility of nature and the companionship of animals. He showed Palomino Quarter Horses and established Fox Knoll Farm in the early 1970s. Under his watchful eye, the farm flourished, eventually housing the largest registered Palomino Quarter Horse herd in Michigan.

In the early years of his marriage, Thomas managed his in-laws' orchard with his beloved wife, Janice, who preceded him in death on September 18, 2018. Together, they cultivated the seeds of kindness and generosity. Their group home for developmentally disabled women was a beacon of hope and a testament to their shared commitment to serving others.

Thomas's legacy is cherished by his surviving son, William Gehrs; daughter, Kathryn (Andreas) Gehrs-Pahl; his grandson, Aaron Gehrs; and his granddaughter, Bianca (Joshua) Shulda. Though he grieves the loss of his twin daughters, Michelle and Marcella, and his siblings, Isobel, William, Lucille, Virginia, Helen, Mickey, Dan, Peggy, and Jim, he rejoices in the reunion with them in the presence of their Creator.

Described by those who knew him as loving, humorous, and imbued with an unwavering faith, Thomas served the Lord with every breath. His life was a testament to the power of kindness and the beauty of a faith-filled existence. We celebrate Thomas Carl Gehrs-a teacher, a musician, a farmer, a servant of God, and a beacon of love. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, as his spirit finds rest in the eternal embrace of his Heavenly Father.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 12:00pm at Salem Lutheran Church, 330 N. Washington St. Owosso. The Gehrs family will receive friends at the church beginning at 11:00am.

Memorial donations in Thomas's name can be directed to Salem Lutheran Church.