Thomas Otto Tenlen

Laingsburg, Michigan

Thomas Otto Tenlen passed away December 4, 2010, peacefully at home with his wife of 52 years by his side.

He was born March 13, 1936 in Ironwood, Michigan, the son of Otto and Lenore (Bowden) Tenlen. Tom married Antoinette (Toni) J. Rossman on January 18, 1958. They resided in Laingsburg, Michigan where they raised their 5 children. Tom was a retired Journeyman Die-Maker from General Motors, Flint Metal Fabrication Division. He was also a U.S. Army Veteran. While working he was active in UAW Committee, Shop Committee, and contract negotiations. When not working at GM, Tom could be found on the family horse farm with a dog by his side, a full-time job and passion. Owning, showing, judging and breeding horses for over 50 years. Tom was a founding member of both the Central Michigan Horseman’s Association and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Posse. As a couple, Tom and Toni enjoyed traveling the world together. They were fortunate enough to have visited over 70 countries and 6 continents. Tom was a student of life. He had a fond love of history, leaving a legacy of knowledge for his family. He was proud of his Finnish heritage and U.P. birthplace. Never one to shy away from a project, he was often found hard at work in his own backyard, known to many as the “Tenlen Park,” or one of his children’s properties. A Spartan fan through and through with many family gatherings around a TV cheering for a Spartan victory. Tom was a family man. Proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always shown by his trademark Tenlen smile.

He was preceded in death by Wallace (Wally) Tenlen (brother), Otto Tenlen (father), Lenore Bowden (mother). He is survived by his wife Antoinette (Toni) J. Tenlen, daughter Patricia (Barry) Walters, son Karl (Julie) Tenlen, daughter Kathy (Larry) Bohnsack, son David (Nancy)Tenlen, and son Thomas Tenlen. As well as 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

There will be a celebration of Tom’s life, Saturday. December 11, 2010 at Victor Township Hall, Laingsburg, MI between 3pm-7pm.

Arrangements under the direction of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Lansing, MI.