In loving memory of

THOMAS JOSEPH GEROU
January 18, 1961 - May 17, 2022

Thomas J. Gerou, 61, lifelong Marquette resident passed away on May 17th, 2022.

Thomas was born in Marquette on January 18, 1961. He was a graduate of Marquette Senior High School where he played basketball, ran track, and was an Honor student. He went on to Northern Michigan University to study Architectural Drafting.

Tom loved the outdoors, deer hunting at camp, duck hunting on Kawbawgam, and fishing most inland lakes in the region. He was a NASCAR fan, who loved the Tigers, Pistons, Redwings and cheering for the Lions in Packer country. Tom was a dog whisperer, having raised seven incredible springer spaniels - his buddy Ella will miss him. He recently participated in the Honor Flight with his father, who served in the Korean War. He was employed by Northern Michigan University in the Building and Grounds Department for the past six years. Previously he worked for UPS for 22 years. He was known for always being kind, helping others, and practicing random acts of kindness.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Lisa Coombs-Gerou of Marquette and Milwaukee, WI; daughter, Nicole Gerou, and son-in-law Brandon Churches, of Detroit, MI; his parents, Katherine and Jerry of Au Train, MI; sister, Tammy Gerou of Gilbert, AZ, and several nieces and nephews. He also is survived by his biological mother, Betty Steinbouer, and his stepbrother Tim Snell and stepsister Terri Young, all who reside in FL.

Tom's family will greet relatives and friends at Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 526 N. Third St., Marquette on Friday, May 27th beginning at 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. where a celebration of Tom's life will take place at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Andrew Plocher officiating. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service in the funeral home.

Tom's celebration of life will be livestreamed at https://my.gather.app/remember/thomas-j-gerou

Memorial Gifts can be made to the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight in Tom's name, 7508 J Road, Gladstone, Michigan 49837.

Tom's obituary can also be viewed at canalefuneral.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.




Tributes

terri t wrote on Jun 5, 2022:

"a very kind and loving man...so sorry to see that he has left us..will always concider him a good friend...god bless Terri T."

Nancy and Gregg beukema@msu.edu wrote on May 29, 2022:

"Sending our condolences, so sorry we could not go to the funeral home. Thinking of you two and enjoy the wonderful pictures of your family."

Jackie & Jim Winkowski wrote on May 28, 2022:

"Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of Tom. We hope you find comfort in fond memories and the celebration of his life."

Gary Stark wrote on May 28, 2022:

"It was always nice to see and talk to Tom in Cohodas Hall. I'll miss his smile, kindness, and friendliness. To his family, I am sorry for your loss."

Deanna Adams wrote on May 27, 2022:

"Lisa, Nicole and Gerou Family So sorry to hear of the passing of Tom. I have known Tom since kindergarten, always said hi when I would see him. Greg worked with him at UPS and they became friends, Greg enjoyed going to his hunting feast he had at camp before the hunting season. Our deepest sympathies to you all. May his memories live on in your hearts and help you in the days ahead. R.I.P Tom. You will be missed . Deanna (Cuff) and Greg Adams"

Tammy wrote on May 27, 2022:

"Tom I love you then, I love you now I?ll love you always Miss you so very much brother "

Bonnie Eldredge wrote on May 26, 2022:

"Lisa and Family, so sorry for your loss."

Mary Beth Johnson wrote on May 26, 2022:

"My condolences on Tom's passing. He was a kind and caring guy and had a ready smile. He will be missed by many. Prayers at this very difficult time."

Bruce Pesola wrote on May 24, 2022:

"My deepest condolences to Lisa and the Gerou family. One of my all time students and bb players. I called him Rabbit. Got a message from him earlier this year. Didn't know that would tje last time. Rest in Peace Rabbit. Sincerely Coach Bruce "

Dave Balbierz wrote on May 24, 2022:

"Lisa so sorry for your loss. Take care, Dave Balbierz"

Marquette Area Public Schools wrote on May 23, 2022:

"Extending to you and your family this heartfelt assurance of deep sympathy, Marquette Area Public Schools Board of Education and Employees"

Jackie and Jim Winkowski wrote on May 23, 2022:

"We are so very sorry to hear about the passing of Tom. Sending love."

Lee Oberto wrote on May 23, 2022:

"So very sad to hear this news. My prayers are with you and family, Lee"

john katona wrote on May 23, 2022:

"Lisa , I am so sorry for your loss. Tom's infectious smile and kind conversations will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. You and your family will be in our prayers. JohnKatona"

Isela Roth wrote on May 22, 2022:

"Mr. Gerry Gerou & Family my deepest condolences. Isela Roth 2 Corinthians 1: 2, 3 "May you have undeserved kindness and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort," "

Gina Umpstead wrote on May 22, 2022:

"Lisa & family, You are on my heart and mind during this time of loss. I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Tom, but I always enjoyed seeing and hearing him when we connected. I know he was a wonderful husband, father, son, to you all. Please know that I am here to support you as you walk down this path. Gina U."

Carole touchinski wrote on May 20, 2022:

"?It?s time? the gang would say after a long shift at the Marquette Mall. We all shared many good times. I wish I could take some of the Grief from Lisa and Nicole. I am here for you; I am so sorry for your loss. Please call on me if there is anything I can do to lighten your load. "

Steve and Betsy Savola wrote on May 20, 2022:

"Wow. So sorry to read about Tom??..he always had that cute smile when he seen us! Lisa, Nicole and family you could see the love he had for you both?..our thoughts and prayers are with you all?. Keep the special memories close to your hearts! HUGS! Love Steve and Betsy Savola. "

Leslie Warren wrote on May 20, 2022:

"I'm very sorry that Tom passed away. I appreciated his friendliness on campus. "

Sarah Amidon wrote on May 20, 2022:

"I knew Tom through work. He was always so kind and helpful. I will miss saying hello to him, and chatting about day to day things. He always greeted me with a smile, and usually held the door open for me if he happened to be standing there when I arrived at work. My deepest sympathy to his family and his sweet doggie too. I will surely miss seeing his friendly face around our office. "