Thomas J. Stec

Thomas J. Stec, age 79, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026. Born on November 4, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom was the beloved son of the late Frank Stec and the late Olga Stec (née Silitsky). He graduated from Osborn High School in 1964 and proudly joined the National Guard shortly thereafter. During his service, he was deployed in Detroit during the riots-an experience that reflected his lifelong sense of duty and quiet strength.

In 1967, fate intervened at the Drum Beat where Karen worked. From that moment on, Tom and Karen were inseparable. They were married on May 30, 1969, at Sacred Heart Church in Detroit and began their life together with a honeymoon at Hubbard Lake-just the beginning of a love story that would span 47 beautiful years until Karen's passing in 2016. Their bond was one of deep devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Tom worked for Chrysler at the Chrysler Mound Road Engine Plant, dedicating 32 years of hard work before retiring. He took pride in providing for his family and built a life centered on love, tradition, and togetherness.

He was the cherished father of Danielle (Jeff) Profant, Donovan (Jamie), Dina (Chris) Sloan, Devon (Mike) Ciegotura, and Darcey (Ron) Moore. Tom was a proud and loving grandfather to Jamie (Autumn), Brendan, Calum, Mallow, Tristen, Sophia, Joshua, Lily, Leah, and Brady. He is also survived by his siblings: Chris (Joel) Berin, Mary (Steve) Avery, and the late John Stec.

Tom had a passion for Triumph motorcycles and treasured time spent at the family cottage on Hubbard Lake. He loved bowling with his family-though, by all accounts, they did so "terribly"-and he looked forward each year to the family trip to Cedar Point, a tradition that continues today. While thrill rides were not exactly his specialty (his favorite ride was often the bench), he once bravely boarded the Snoopy ride-later renaming it the "Snoopy Death Coaster," a story retold with laughter for years.

In quieter moments, Tom enjoyed reading, watching classic "shoot em' up" films, and especially any movie starring John Wayne. He valued simple pleasures, family gatherings, and the joy of being surrounded by those he loved.

Tom's legacy lives on in the traditions he created, the laughter he inspired, and the deep love he instilled in his family. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his sense of humor, and his enduring devotion to those closest to him.

A memorial visitation will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a 6:00 p.m. Memorial Service at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 25800 Harper Avenue, St. Clair Shores.

The family asks that you honor Tom by spending time with those you love, taking a ride (or a seat on the bench), and continuing the traditions that bring family together.