Thomas Arthur Hile

Thomas Arthur Hile of Caro was born March 7, 1943, in Saginaw to John (Jack) and Betty (Grech) Hile. Growing up on his family farm a mile north of Watrousville, Tom attended the Watrousville School through 8th grade. He then attended Caro High School. Having a love for science, Tom was a National Science Fair winner and graduated as Salutatorian of the Class of 1961. He attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology majoring in physics. While there, he was a member of the rowing team. After his freshman year, Tom realized his love for farming, and he transferred to Michigan State University from which he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agricultural Economics. He worked with his father and uncle on their family farm until their passing, when he became the sole proprietor at the age of 28 and retired in the spring of 2008. After a ten-day whirlwind courtship, he became engaged to neighbor Michele Kosa with them marrying December 28, 1974. Their marriage produced two sons, John Thomas who lives in Rochester and Allen Thomas who lives in Warren. In addition to farming, Tom was the Juniata Township Clerk for 35 years and 16 days retiring April 30, 2015.

Tom had a laid back, kind spirit and would help anyone in need. He enjoyed reading, watching game shows, golfing, following Michigan State and U of M sports, playing Nintendo ~ particularly Tetris in the 1990’s, and following the Detroit Tigers, the Detroit Lions, and the PGA Tour. Over the years, they have added extensively to their home hiring the enclosures being done and then the finishing work being completed by Tom. His wife, Michele, attests to never having seen him angry or in a hurry having one speed, slow, as he relentlessly and calmly pursued any task to completion.

Left to cherish Tom’s memory are his wife, Michele, and his sons, John and Allen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Ellen Hile.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Ransford Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 25, with his wife, Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Prior to that, there will be a visitation Monday, November 24, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and then again on Tuesday beginning at 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s’s Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society.