Thomas Paul Sukenik

Tom passed away peacefully on October 27, 2015 at home. His wife, Barb and his brother Bob were with him. Tom was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 29, 1940, and was the middle child of John and Victoria (nee Grebeck) Sukenik. Tomʼs summers during his formative years were spent at Island Lake in Brighton with his many dear cousins and the extended family. He graduated from Cranbrook High School, and was a proud member of their first ice hockey team since 1952. He received varsity letters in both football and hockey. After serving two years in the US Navy aboard the USS Diamond Head as a radio operator, he earned both his Bachelors and Masters Degrees from Michigan State University where his blood first ran green. Tom started working at New Hudson in marketing and sales in 1968 and still remains a valuable member of the Board of Directors.

Family, friends, golf, bridge, WWII novels and movies, MSU sports and a 40 year run at the Kentucky Derby were the loves of his life. He enjoyed many good times at both Chemung Hills Country Club and the Country Club of Lansing. Tom’s pets had a special place in his heart, most recently his beloved Scamper Belle.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Barb. They shared many European trips where they traveled by train enjoying art, architecture and dining - Tom’s favorites mussels and chocolates. He treasured summer visits from his nephews Carl, Aaron, and Paul during their growing up years. Additionally Tom is survived by his brothers Bob (Luanne) Sukenik and John (Holly) Sukenik and his nieces and nephews Jim (Anita) Sukenik, Stephanie (Mark) Davenhall, Bob Sukenik, Barbie (Mike) Tonti, Carl (Michalena) Sukenik, Aaron Sukenik, and Paul Sukenik, many great nieces and nephews and beloved cousins. Sister-in-law Sue (Roger) Wobig and great nephew Nicholas Ryan. And of course his many, many friends.

Tom will always be remembered for his kindness and generosity and a total love of life. He saw the best in everyone. Tom was a man’s man and a perfect gentleman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 11 AM at St. Johns Student Parish, 327 M.A.C. Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823 with celebrant Father Mark Inglot officiating. Family will receive guests one hour before the service. There will be a visitation for family and friends at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Chapel, 1730 East Grand River, East Lansing, MI 48823 on Friday, November 6, 2015 from 5 - 8 PM. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 West Grand River, Lansing, MI 48906 or Leukemia & Lymphoma Society c/o Tom Sukenik Tribute, 6033 West Century Blvd., Suite #300, Los Angeles, CA 90045.