Obituary of Thomas Allen Graczyk
Thomas Allen Graczyk was born on January 22, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the son of James Ralph Graczyk and Dorothy Leona (Dines) Graczyk. The family moved from Detroit to Rockwood, Michigan before settling in Monroe. He attended St. Patrick School and then Holy Ghost Lutheran School graduating from Monroe High School with the Class of 1962.
In 1964, Tom took a position with the Ford Motor Company. He met the love of his life Cherylynn Marguerite Boedicker, and the couple blended their families after being married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroe in 1977. He continued his employment at Ford working in several different capacities during his 32 years of employment prior to his retirement in 1996. The family continued worshipping at Trinity Lutheran Church where he served as an usher for many years.
Tom was an avid sports fan. He loved Detroit Tiger baseball first and foremost, so much so at times he might watch the same game three times on wrap around sports. He enjoyed watching any college football or basketball games although his favorite team was the University of Michigan. He was also a huge supporter of his grandson Durke and his athletic prowess.
Tom enjoyed staying active striving to stay in good health whether going for walks, riding his bike, or learning Brazilian Jiujitsu with Cale. He wasn’t afraid to implement the newest diet trends he heard on the news to gain an advantage. He loved to dance and was everyone’s dancing partner at weddings.
As a young boy, Tom was introduced to tent camping. He quickly developed a lifelong passion for being at one with nature later upgrading to a pop-up, trailer, and finally a fifth wheel. Tom and Cheryl belonged to the BSG Camping Group, enjoying the company of some twenty campers in the posse having huge potlucks with the "Bezeau's, Smith's, and Graczyk's" families. He enjoyed yardwork, landscaping, gardening, and spending time with family and neighbors.
Thomas Allen Graczyk, age 80 of Monroe passed away peacefully at home on Sunday; May 19, 2024. His passing was preceded by his parents; his beloved wife: Cherylynn on November 11, 2011; and two brothers: Robert and Ralph Graczyk.
To cherish his memory he leaves four children: Julie Kay "Jules" (Doug) Estes of Monroe, Vincent Graczyk (Karen Parsons-Graczyk), Keith Gracyk, and stepson: Jeremy (Cindy) Lagerman of Ypsilanti; two sisters: Denise Jevince and Yvonne McLachlin both of Monroe; a brother: William "Bill" Graczyk of Monroe; seven grandchildren: Rachel Graczyk, Chelsea Graczyk, Amanda (Josh) Murray, Nikki (David) Brown, Durke Venier, Cheyenne Lagerman, and Cale Estes; and four great grandchildren: Hailey and Lillian, Angela Murray, and Dawson Brown, with a baby Brown on the way.
Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm on Thursday; May 23, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. He will lie in state from 11:00am until 12:00pm on Friday; May 24, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church; 323 Scott Street, Monroe, Michigan 48161. A Funeral Service Celebrating His Life will take place at 12:00pm with Pastor Mark Duerr officiating. A procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.
Memorial contributions for those who desire are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church Debt Reduction. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.