GRAPES, THOMAS EDWARD,  March 4, 1947 - October 30, 2023

Tom Grapes, 76, of Traverse City passed away Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born on March 4, 1947, in Traverse City to the late Gordon and JoAnn (Gilbert) Grapes.  He married Georgine Donroe in 1978 at All Faiths Chapel in Traverse City.

Tom was a proud University of Michigan graduate with an undergrad degree in electrical engineering and a graduate degree in computer information and control engineering.  He lived in Chelsea, Michigan, and worked for Comshare before taking over the family business, Gilbert's Service Oil Company, from his father, Gorden Grapes.  Tom computerized the business and, for over 30 years, dedicated his life to its success.  He cared deeply about his employees and helped them in big and small ways.  You could often find him working at one of the stations in his trademark flannel shirt.

Tom was a loving husband to Georgine, his wife of 45 years.  He was a devoted father to Chris (Mark) Grapes Garcia of Chicago, who was a fellow University of Michigan graduate and followed her dad's footsteps into business.  Most recently, Tom was a proud grandfather to Vincent Thomas (6) and Juliette Helen (4) Garcia.   His boisterous laugh filled the room at family gatherings, and he happily cheered on the passions and accomplishments of his immediate and extended family and friends.

In addition to his wife, daughter, and grandchildren, Tom is survived by his sisters, Nancy Cotcamp, Mary Jane Anderson, and Peggy Glynn, along with many other close family members and friends.

A visitation was, held on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, from 5 until 8 p.m. at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth Street, Traverse City, MI.  There was a time of sharing which began at 7 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the TART Trails, P.O. Box 252, Traverse City, MI 49685; or online at: https://traversetrails.org/give/donate/
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Posted By: Administrator - 02-03-2024
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