Thomas Voakes

Thomas Samuel Voakes, age 80, of Wildwood, Florida, formerly of Casco, MI, died suddenly, at home, on Wednesday, January 5, 2022. Thom was born in Troy, MI, to his parents, Robert James Sr. and Ora Viola (Jones) Voakes on March 12, 1941.
Thom is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Vicki (Easterly) Voakes, his five daughters Bonnie Voakes Bindig of Mt. Morris, MI, Vicki Voakes Ruemenapp (David) of Fair Haven, MI, Terri Voakes Dobbyn (Thomas) of Wales, MI, Kristina Voakes Pietrangelo (Steven) of Kimball, MI and Veronica Vaokes Marlo (Jason) of Center Line, MI. Twelve grandchildren: Hannah Bindig, Hope Bindig, Jeremiah Bindig, Naomi Bindig, Grace Bindig, Lydia Bindig, Victoria Ruemenapp, Andrew Ruemenapp (Veronica), Kaylynn Budd (Cody), Michael Pietrangelo, Samantha Pietrangelo and Lauren Marlo Salvaggio (Joe) and three great-grandchildren; Sophia Salvaggio, Kaya Salvaggio, and Joey Salvaggio. Brother Richard Voakes of Oshkosh, WI and sister Mary Voakes of Algonac, MI. Thom was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Ora Voakes, his brothers Robert and William Voakes, his sister Margaret (Taffy) Shorter and his grandson, Thomas (TJ) Kerby.
Thom was a firefighter for the city of St. Clair Shores for 29 years. He also worked as a zamboni driver at the St. Clair Shores Civic Arena, a delivery driver for Viviano's Florist, he worked in the Pro Shop at Richmond Forest Golf Course, Berz-Macomb Airport and he worked security at Gibraltar Trade Center and multiple other part time jobs.
Thom enjoyed country western dancing, playing shuffleboard, playing cards, backgammon, bingo, golfing, and his monthly luncheons with the retired firefighters.
While raising their family, they enjoyed camping and were very involved in the local 4H club. Until moving to Florida permanently in October, Thom and Vicki enjoyed spending their winters in Florida for the last 20 years.
Perhaps his most treasured achievement was bringing joy to so many children and adults when he portrayed the role of Santa Claus for 51 years to friends, family and literally anyone who asked.
Thom was a great family man, loving father, grandfather, and friend.
He will be deeply missed by everyone.
The family will be hosting a celebration of his beautiful life at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Thom's name to the St. Clair Shores Goodfellows or the St. Clair Shores Cops for Kids.