Obituary published on Legacy.com by Charles R. Lux Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Oct. 13, 2025.
Thomas Peter Trionfi (Tom), 73, of
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan passed away on October 7, 2025.
Tom was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 8, 1952, son of Frank and Victoria Trionfi. Tom grew up in Allen Park, Michigan, surrounded by his siblings and a large, loving family of cousins. After graduating from Allen Park High School, Tom earned his undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University. He continued his education at Central Michigan University (CMU), where he received his master's degree in administration.
Tom began his career at CMU after accepting the position of Residence Hall Director. He built a distinguished career in higher education administration, serving in multiple capacities at CMU. Throughout his career, Tom was committed to establishing and maintaining strong working relationships built on mutual respect and trust. He was grateful for the friendships he developed in and out of the workplace. Tom retired in 2017 as Director of Contracting & Purchasing Services, where he was known for his thoughtful leadership, his commitment to his colleagues, and his vision for creating a better learning environment.
Tom first met Jan in 1985, at CMU, where they both worked, and were married in October 1990, in
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Together they created a home filled with warmth and hospitality.
Tom lived a life filled with energy, passion, and a healthy appreciation for the good things in life. His infectious spirit was apparent in everything he did, from perfecting his swing on the golf course, to demonstrating his lifelong love of music, or to creating a culinary delight.
As a serious golfer with a meticulous approach to the game, Tom cherished his time on the course. He loved the challenge of the course and the camaraderie of his playing partners, whether it be with family, or a tight-knit group of friends who will remember his competitive nature and his unwavering friendship.
Tom's other great passion was music, which was a constant soundtrack to his life. A devoted fan of The Who, he would often reminisce about their rock anthems and share stories of their legendary performances. As a self-taught guitarist, Tom could often be found playing an impromptu in-house performance. His enthusiasm for music was a joy to all who knew him.
For Tom, great food was another cornerstone of a life well-lived. An excellent cook, he loved to experiment with new recipes and host dinners for his family and friends. The kitchen was his stage, and guests were always treated to fantastic meals that were as memorable as the conversation and laughter that accompanied them. He believed the best meals were those shared with the people you love most.
Tom will be remembered as a man who cherished the time he spent with family and friends. His kind nature was never more evident than in the unconditional love he showed to his canine friend, Max. He was a beloved husband, a devoted brother, loving uncle and loyal friend who will be deeply missed.
Tom is survived by his wife, Jan; brothers, Frank Trionfi and Don (Katy) Trionfi; sister, Kathy Moores; brother-in-law, Mark (Katherine) Kulbaba; sister-in-law, Flo Kulbaba; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his faithful canine companion, Max. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Victoria (James) Trionfi; in-laws, Peter and Verna Kulbaba; brothers-in-law, Jack Moores and Terry Kulbaba.
Cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of life at a future date. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions in memory of Tom Trionfi to Kiwanis of Mt. Pleasant, P.O. Box 156,
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0156