Thomas "Tom" Lalla

Thomas Allen Lalla, known affectionately as Tom to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Caro, Michigan. Born on July 21, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom was a man whose life was marked by love, service, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.
Tom proudly served our country during the Vietnam War in the United States Army, a period of his life that shaped much of his character and values. After his service, he found love and companionship in Evelyn Zyrowski, and the two were united in marriage on June 23, 1978, in Madison Heights, Michigan. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and an ever-growing family.
A devoted husband and father, Tom is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn; his daughters, Kimberly (Jason) Smiley, Annie (Rich Kowalski) Jewett, and Jane (David) Vancamp; his siblings, David (Linda) Lalla, Joyce Milliron, Susie Lalla, and Christopher Lalla. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Ashley (D.J Perry), Joseph Smiley, Leanne (Will) Willingham, Amber (Connor) Helfer, Cassidy Smiley, Kourtni Jewett, R.J (Izzy Verde-Acuna) Jewett, Jesse Jewett, David Kowalski, Paula Kowalski, Skyler Vancamp, and Thomas Vancamp; and his adored great-grandchildren, Ben, Chase, Makenzie, Jackson, Adam, Noah, Isabella, Elliana, and Sophia. Tom's faithful dog, Roxanne, also mourns his passing. He was preceded in death by his mother, Grace (Christine) Lemerise; his father, Alfred Lalla; stepfather, Peter Lemerise; sister, Jean Meritt; brother-in-law, Rick Milliron; son-in-law, Ronald Jewett; and great-grandson, Hunter Willingham.
Tom was a man of many interests and talents. He attended the Caro Assembly of God and dedicated countless hours volunteering at local veterans' organizations. His love for hunting, fishing, camping, and being an overall outdoorsman was well-known. Upon retirement, he fulfilled his dream of moving to a property in Caro where the great outdoors was just a step outside his back door. His passion for nature was only matched by his love for his family. Tom made it a point to share his love for fishing with all his grandchildren, ensuring that each fishing trip was commemorated with a photo, no matter the size of the catch. The arrival of summer recalled the memories of firewood cutting season, during which his grandchildren, Kourtni, RJ, and Jesse, would haul firewood to his home to sustain warmth throughout the winter season.
Those who knew Tom would describe him as loving, handy, and optimistic. He had a knack for fixing anything that needed repair and approached life's challenges with a positive outlook. His presence brought warmth and comfort to those around him, and his absence will be deeply felt by many.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life in honor of Tom will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in memory of Tom can be made to the Saginaw VA Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Jansen Family Funeral Home - Columbiaville. Share memories, condolences, and pictures with the family at www.jansenfuneralhome.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Thomas "Tom" Lalla, please visit our Tree Store.