Thomas P. Sheehan

Thomas Patrick Sheehan of Waterford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on May 27, 1931, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Tom was one of ten children born to Bernard and Jane (Carroll) Sheehan. Tom was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He had a strong work ethic and dedicated faith. Tom attended Lourdes High School and University of Detroit before beginning a long and respected career as an electrician with IBEW Local 58, a role he took great pride in. On August 18, 1956, Tom married the love of his life, Alice Rebain. Together they shared nearly 70 years of marriage and raised six children, first in Detroit and later in Farmington Hills. Though they didn't have much extra, Tom and Alice always found ways to give their children a rich and meaningful childhood. Every summer meant camping trips-first in an old army tent, later in a pop-up trailer-traveling to different states and exploring state and national parks. Tom never understood why anyone would choose a hotel over the great outdoors. Tom was the dad who took the neighborhood kids caroling, pulled his children on sleds, flooded the yard so they could ice skate, and taught old songs in the evenings. He patiently helped with math homework, taught his children how to mow the lawn, catch a ball, change the oil, and respect the value of education and living within one's means. While Tom was not the disciplinarian, his presence alone encouraged good behavior. Children knew to sit up straight, fold their arms, stand when an adult entered the room, say "yes ma'am," and show respect. He led with quiet authority, kindness, and consistency. Tom was also a devoted and fun-loving grandfather. His grandchildren brought him endless joy, and he delighted in making them smile and laugh. The many family traditions he and Alice established will continue to be cherished by generations. Service to others was central to Tom's life. He lived his life be example. He volunteered regularly at the church and was always ready to help family, friends, or neighbors. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; his brother, Jerry (Theresa); and his children: Daniel Sheehan (Susan), Erin Peterson (Bob), Maureen Heimsath (Jerry), Eileen Scott (Sean), Margaret Khadra (Dave), and James Sheehan (Lori). He is also lovingly remembered by 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. There are countless stories that could be told, and Tom told them best! His family is deeply grateful for the life they shared with him and for the legacy he and Alice built together. He will be dearly missed and forever loved. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Perpetua Catholic Church, 134 Airport Road, Waterford. The family will receive friends on Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Riverside Chapel, Simpson-Modetz Funeral Home, 5630 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. Rite of Committal at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.