Dr. Thomas Owen Robbins

Tom Robbins departed this life on February 25th, in the 88th year of his remarkable life. Tom passed quietly at his home attended by his loving bride of 66 years, and three of his five sons. Tom was an accomplished physician, leader, naval officer, community servant, friend and - most importantly to him - husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Born in Minneapolis to Owen Francis and Margery Lumsden Robbins, Tom married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann Butler Robbins in 1959. As they started their family, he attended the University of Minnesota Medical School. He became a third-generation physician and was very proud that legacy has now reached five generations.

To support his growing family, he entered the US Navy in 1963 and completed his resident training in Pathology at Balboa Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. Upon completing his residency his first station was in Da Nang, Vietnam from July 1968 to July 1969. Tom was engaged in medical support of the US Marines and oversaw blood supply to country. He was decorated with the Bronze Star for his efforts there. Upon returning from Vietnam, he was stationed at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. He retired from the Navy in 1971 with the rank of Commander.

Tom and Mary Ann then moved to Michigan, where he joined the Anatomic Pathology department at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. Over a 37-year career at Beaumont he became Director of that department and eventually Associate Medical Director of the Hospital. His expertise was highly respected, as was his leadership.

When his sons were in Troy Schools, he became involved the growing school system and served as President of the School Board where he led a revamp of the mathematics program in the district.

Tom's efforts were never self-aggrandizing and he was always a model of humility and service. His sense of humor and wit were quick, his respect for all was consistent and his standards were high (particularly for himself). At core, Tom was a lifelong searcher for the truth – smart, humble, reverent and open to ideas.

In retirement, Tom and Mary Ann split their time between Michigan and Naples, Florida.

He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, sister Mary Owen (Bob), sons Owen (Judy), Jim (Rose), Pat (Christy), John (Jeanne) and Bill (Cathy). Also, nine grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Sandra Pohlad (Harold). All of this family whom he loved, and loved him in return, will miss him. But rejoice to have had the man he was, for so many good years.

Family will receive friends on Friday, March 6th, 2-8PM, with Rosary at 7PM, at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 48073.

Funeral Mass on Saturday, March 7th, 10AM, at St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church, 2215 Opdyke Rd., Bloomfield Hills, 48304. Visitation at church begins at 9:30AM.

Memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.