Thomas James Carolan

With deep sorrow we announce the passing of Thomas J. Carolan. Born on September 20, 1944 in Racine, Wisconsin, Tom exited this life on December 19, 2025 at his home in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Across 81 memorable years, Tom lived a life of deep love, lasting friendships, worldly knowledge, and indisputable class.

A righteous and intelligent man, Tom’s greatest joy was undoubtably his wife Marianne, with whom he shared over 55 years. Madly in love to the end, Tom and Marianne traveled widely and often, sometimes on “mystery” trips secretly planned by Tom. Visiting beaches, hiking up hills, cruising, dancing, and stopping by wineries or interesting restaurants whenever possible, Tom always looked for adventure and fun. The same was true with his children and grandchildren, to whom he was also devoted, and with his abundant friends. With his dexterous mind, dry wit, and open heart, Tom was equally happy in small conversations on the edges of a party and in the middle of boisterous, loud gatherings filled with voices. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

In addition to his parents John and Margaret Carolan, parents in-law Francis and Mary Donnelly, and brother Tim, Tom was preceded in death by his daughter Emily Ann and granddaughter Aven Azucena. He is survived by his wife Marianne, his children Joel and Jessica, Michael and Jessica, and Maureen and Brandon, and grandchildren Nolan, Anderson, Easton, Jameson, Zoey, Piper, Lyrah, and Veronica. Tom also leaves behind many extended family members and innumerable friends.

In keeping with his spirit, Tom expressed a desire that family and friends celebrate his life, even as they mourn his passing. Think of the laughter and conversation, the good food and glasses of wine shared, the get togethers that ran long, and the getaways to fun and interesting places.

Pursuant to his wishes, Tom’s body will be cremated. But a memorial visitation will be held Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 4 –8 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home (37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152) and a mass will be held at 11 am on December 29, 2025, (with a gathering at 10 am beforehand) at St. Kenneth Catholic Church (14951 North Haggerty Road, Plymouth, MI 48170), after which there will be a luncheon. We invite all who knew and loved Tom to join.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those with the means to donate to a charity of their choice. The family will be making a donation in Tom’s name to each of the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) and the Children’s Heart Foundation (www.childrensheartfoundation.org).