Thomas A. Shaw

Thomas A. Shaw passed away on March 11, 2016 at the age of 83. He was the beloved husband of the late Patricia Shaw for 54 years. The devoted father of Susan (the late John) Russell, Sharon Progar, and Sally (Kevin) Czarniecki. The cherished grandfather of Emily Czarniecki. The loving companion of Mary Ann Lehnis. The brother of John Shaw and Linda Shaw. The dear brother-in-law of the late Mary Lee Brunemann, Katherine (the late Ted) Emmerich, and William Harmon. The caring uncle of several nieces and nephews.

Tom graduated from Henry Ford Trade School in 1950. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed in Geneva, NY where he met his wife Patricia, who was also in the Air Force. After discharge from the service, they returned to Michigan to raise their family.

Tom worked at Barton-Malow as a journeyman carpenter for over 40 years and then worked at Chrysler as a Facilities Manager for 11 years until his retirement in 2001.

Tom served as the trainer and equipment manager for the Detroit Red Wing Alumni Association for 42 years. He and Pat traveled throughout Michigan and Canada for their charity hockey games and related fun! He also worked at Joe Louis Arena in the press box on game nights and managed the Alumni Room.

Tom had a very fulfilling life, but nothing was as special as the relationship he had with his granddaughter Emily. Emily learned at an early age how to wrap him around her little finger, whether it was taking her to figure skating lessons, picking her up from swim practice, or taking her and her friend to the mall, or just calling him for a lunch date. Emily will miss her Papa.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 from 2 to 8pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road in Livonia. A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at 10:30am at the funeral home. Friends may visit Thursday beginning at 9:30am.

In memory of Thomas, memorial donations are appreciated to the Hospice of Michigan, 26957 Northwestern Hwy Ste. 140, Southfield, MI 48033