Thomas John Ott

Thomas John Ott, age 88, of Milford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 19, 1937, in Middletown, Connecticut, Tom was the cherished son of Joseph and Mary Ott. It was in his home state that he met the love of his life, Carole Hartwick. The two were married on September 23, 1967, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hartford, Connecticut, and went on to build a beautiful life together, raising three daughters: Denise, Sherrie, and Jennifer.

In 1974, Tom and Carole settled in Milford, Michigan, where Tom began a long and rewarding career at the General Motors Proving Grounds. He worked there with pride and dedication until his retirement in 2002.

Tom was a man of many passions and talents. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, he began riding at the age of 12 and continued well into his seventies, owning 11 motorcycles over the years. He found great joy on two wheels, whether riding for fun or racing competitively. An avid outdoorsman, Tom loved hunting, boating, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing. He especially treasured time spent at his property in Homer, Michigan, where countless memories were made with family and friends. In retirement, he and Carole enjoyed winters in Florida, embracing the sunshine and slower pace of life. Tom also had a passion for electronics and spent many hours working on CB radios-a hobby he enjoyed throughout his life. Tom will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his devotion to family, and his unwavering love for the outdoors.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 58 years, Carole Ott; his loving daughters, Denise (Brian) Brunt, Sherrie (Shoane) Scannell, and Jennifer (Mark) Armstrong; and his cherished granddaughters, Sydney Maciok and Ava Armstrong. He is also survived by his dear nephew, Jimmy Wheeler, and many other loving family members and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Ott, and his beloved sister, Irene Wheeler.