Jennifer Surel

Thomas Bem

In loving memory of Thomas A. Bem, who graced this world on October 21, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to his adoring parents, Lillian and Michael Bem. He was the cherished sibling of Michael, Barbara (Edward Baird), Celeste (Lester Schmitigal), and Jerome (Pamela), and together, they formed a close-knit and loving family.
During his high school years at Cody High School in Detroit, Tom's path intersected with that of his high school sweetheart, a meeting that would define his life's journey. Their love blossomed and, on June 9, 1967, Tom and Christine exchanged vows, embarking on a lifelong journey together.
Tom and Christine chose to settle in the welcoming embrace of West Bloomfield, Michigan, where they established a loving home. Their union was blessed with the arrival of two daughters, Jennifer (Mark Surel) and Amy (Kevin Boyle), who brought boundless joy and love into their lives.
Tom dedicated an impressive 40 years of his life to a fulfilling career at Williams International in Walled Lake. It was not merely a job for Tom; it was a labor of love that allowed him to form lifelong friendships and leave a lasting impact. His passion for his work was evident to all who knew him.
In a testament to the enduring strength of their love and commitment, Tom and Christine celebrated 56 years of marriage together, a partnership that exemplified devotion and unity.
Among the many blessings in Tom's life were his three wonderful grandchildren: Maxwell, Penelope, and William. He treasured each moment spent with them and took immense pride in watching them grow, nurturing their unique personalities with love and care.
On June 6, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family, Tom passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and enduring friendships. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Biography:
In his rich and fulfilling life, Tom was a man of many passions and pursuits. His zest for adventure and exploration was evident through his love for travel. He cherished every opportunity to journey to distant lands, whether it was exploring the mysteries of Egypt or soaking in the timeless beauty of Greece during work-related trips. Tom's wanderlust was matched only by his appreciation for the world's diverse cultures and cuisines, as these experiences ignited his lifelong love for fine food and adventure.
When he wasn't traveling, Tom could often be found on the golf course, swinging clubs with enthusiasm and skill. He didn't just limit his athletic endeavors to golf, as he was an active participant in numerous workplace sports teams. His competitive spirit and camaraderie with colleagues made these experiences all the more special.
Tom's thirst for exploration extended to the open road as well. He relished the long road trips bicycling through picturesque landscapes of Canada and the rolling hills of southern Ireland. These journeys with friends not only fueled his sense of adventure but also allowed him to forge lasting bonds and create cherished memories.
In addition to his love for travel and sports, Tom was a man of letters. He fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming an author and published his first book, "I Tommy." This labor of love, which he diligently worked on for many years, shared the captivating story of his family's history, recounting his grandfather's brave journey from Poland to a new life in Detroit, Michigan. Tom's pride in finally completing this book was immeasurable, as it served as a testament to his dedication and commitment.
Tom's artistic talents extended beyond the written word; he found solace and joy in painting. His creative spirit flowed onto canvas, where he expressed himself in vibrant colors and intricate designs. Those fortunate enough to receive one of Tom's homemade cards for a special occasion were gifted not only with a piece of art but also with a piece of his heart.
Tom's life was not only filled with adventure and accomplishments but also with the warmth of close friendships and cherished traditions. One of his most treasured pastimes was spending quality time with his closest friends, often at their cabin in the woods. There, they indulged in the simple pleasures of life, savoring cigars and concocting humorous games that would bring endless laughter. Whether it was the legendary pancake-throwing contest across the river or hilarious golf challenges, Tom had an uncanny ability to turn ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.
Yet, amidst his adventures with friends, Tom also held a special place in his heart for his beloved wife, Christine. Together, they shared a deep connection and a love for exploring new horizons, with their vacations to Maui being a highlight of their journey. Equally important to Tom were his cherished "Daddy Daughter Dinner Nights," where he devoted undivided attention to his daughters, nurturing their bonds and creating lasting traditions.
Tom's interests were as diverse as his friendships. He was an avid reader, finding solace and knowledge in the pages of books. His passion for the arts extended to his family, as he delighted in sharing his love of art with his daughters during visits to the Detroit Institute of Arts, creating lasting memories surrounded by beauty and culture.
Tom was not just a man of leisure; he was also a man of music. He was self-taught on various musical instruments, including the piano, guitar, and harmonica. His ability to effortlessly strum a guitar or play a soulful tune on the piano added a musical dimension to his life that brought joy to those around him.
A few years after retiring from a life filled with adventure and creativity, Tom faced a formidable adversary: leukemia. With unwavering courage, he confronted this relentless disease head-on. As the illness progressed, Tom's hope rested on the prospect of a stem cell transplant. Fate smiled upon him, connecting him with a remarkable 24-year-old man whose selflessness and compassion made him a perfect match.
This extraordinary donor (Kevin Heithaus), whose generosity knew no bounds, not only provided Tom with a lifeline but also formed a deep and enduring friendship with him. Their bond grew stronger with time, as they shared stories, laughter, and life's triumphs. Tom's gratitude for this selfless act knew no bounds, and he cherished the gift of nine additional years of life, surrounded by the love of his friends and family.
One of the most heartwarming chapters of Tom's journey was the opportunity for him and his beloved wife, Christine, to attend the wedding of the man who had saved his life. It was a poignant moment when Tom and Kevin finally met face to face, their hearts filled with gratitude and shared purpose. In that meeting, Tom and his family forged an unbreakable connection with this remarkable individual, forever bound by the gift of life and the enduring power of human kindness.
As a testament to Tom's vibrant life and the love he shared with those around him, a celebration of life was held on September 24th, 2023. Friends and family gathered to remember and honor Tom, sharing happy and funny memories that illuminated the room with laughter and love. Tom's legacy lives on in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known him, a tapestry woven with friendship, laughter, love, and the shared joys of life.
As we remember Tom's remarkable life, we celebrate not only his love for family and friends but also his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. His legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact that one person's selflessness can have on the lives of others. Tom's memory will forever be a source of inspiration, reminding us to cherish every moment and to live with the same resilience and gratitude that defined his journey.

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Thomas Bem Obituary | Keeper Memorials