Thomas Martin Ozar I, 81, of St. Clair Shores, MI, passed away on January 19, 2025, following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Surrounded by his loving family, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, honor, and dedication to those he cherished.
Born on December 7, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas was the son of Francis C. Ozar and Nora M. Folan. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Royal Oak, Michigan, he proudly served in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1964. Upon returning from service, he met Jan Warzywak, and the two married. They had three children, whom he raised in Saint Clair Shores, where he was a proud resident for fifty years. Thomas spent much of his career in the automotive industry before retiring in the early 2000s.
Following retirement, Thomas enjoyed traveling, indulging in his passion for sports, spending weekends at the family cottage, and, most of all, cherishing time with his loved ones. His unwavering love and support made him an extraordinary father and grandfather, always offering guidance and affection to those he held dear.
Thomas is survived by his children: Darcy Rohr (Scott), Thomas Ozar II (Maria), Chandra Furi (David) and their children, Owen and Evelynn. He is also survived by his brother, Bud (Sue) Ozar, and his sisters, MaryBeth Ozar Katz and the late Nora Ann (John) Szurpicki.
For 37 years, Thomas shared a deep and loving partnership with Catherine Fischer. He embraced Catherine’s family as his own, forging lasting bonds with her five daughters: Katie (Carl) Oliphant, Janet Jason, Sandy (Jim) Priskey, Nancy Fischer McConnell, and Carol (Jeff) Tracy. To Catherine’s grandchildren, Thomas was affectionately known as “Tompa,” reflecting the warmth and love he radiated.
Thomas’s life was defined by his Christian faith, patriotism, dedication to his family, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. The kindness, strength, and love he shared will forever inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Orphans of Kenya or the Solanus Casey Center in honor of Thomas’s memory.
Visitation will take place at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, MI 48081, on February 7, 2025. Family visitation will be from 2:00–3:00 PM, with all visitors welcome from 3:00–8:00 PM. Rosary services will be held from 7:00–8:00 PM.
Mass will be held at Our Lady Star of the Sea, 467 Fairford Rd., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236, on February 8, 2025. In-state visitation begins at 9:30 AM, followed by Mass from 10:00–11:00 AM.
A luncheon will follow the Mass at Lakeland Manor, 26211 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores, MI 48081, beginning at 11:30 AM.
