Obituary of Thomas Michael

Thomas Michael, 83, passed away peacefully under hospice care on Saturday, October 16, 2021, with his family at his side.  He was born on December 28, 1937 in Eaton, Ohio.  He graduated in 1960 from Tri-State University with a degree in mechanical engineering, passed the Professional Engineering certification exam and enjoyed a long career in the aerospace industry. 

 

Tom married his high school sweetheart, Nancy, and they started their 50 year marriage in Worthington, Ohio.  They moved to Ocala, Florida in 1981 and were active members of their church and community.  He served on the church Session, coached his kids’ soccer games, cheered at OSU Buckeye games, enjoyed dinner parties with friends and dancing with his wife.  They loved to travel and visit their grandchildren.  Tom had the do-it-yourself gene and loved to design, build and repair.  From screened in porches to cradles for his grandkids, there was always a project in the works.  He planted butterfly gardens and cultivated citrus trees.  He passed this gene on to his children and grandchildren, continuing the tradition of “The Michael Project.”  When Nancy passed away in 2011, Tom started delivering with Meals on Wheels and organizing medicine bottles for use in developing countries. 

 

Tom was most proud of his family and lived life with an upbeat, positive Christian attitude.  He was often described as "a kind and gentle soul."

 

He is survived by his three children: Kristen (Bill) Crawford, Michelle Michael and Kyle, CDR US Navy (Ret.), (Susan) Michael; four grandchildren: James, Thomas, Kyla and Kaitlin Michael; three step-grandchildren: Jessie Fraser, Kathryn Simanton and John Crawford; and three grand-dogs; Koa, Kona and Kula.  He is also survived by his brother, George (Sherry) Michael, sister-in-law Doris Ann Sadler and was predeceased by his brother Jim Michael and sister Mary Myers.  He enjoyed a loving extended family circle including five great-step grandchildren (Sydney, Aubrie, Liam, Sean and Gracie) numerous nieces, nephews and long time friends.

 

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church at 10:00 a.m. on November 22, 2021. Following a reception in the church courtyard, the family is hosting a lunch and drop by at the Crawford's home from 12:30 - 4:00 pm.

 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Hospice of Marion County or the charity of your heart.

 

"What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose. For all that we love deeply becomes part of us."  -  Helen Keller 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Michael, please visit Tribute Store