Thomas William Oppat

Thomas William Oppat, 90, a life-long resident of Dearborn and Livonia, passed away at home on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019. Tom was born June 4, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to parents Frieda and Fred Oppat.

Tom cherished his family and, along with Helen, his bride of 66 years, raised six children: Mark (Leann), Scott (Melania), Craig (Melanie), Kristie (Scott Breed), Kelly (Rich Paul), and Brad (Francine). He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, Jason, David, Kelsey (Chad Hanke), Blair, Christian and Michael Breed, Joe Hughes (Heather), and Amy Hughes; a great-granddaughter, Blakley Hanke; his sister Carol (Skip Rheault), and extended family, Leslie Oppat, Erin Cool, Chayse Hunter; and many nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Frieda and Fred Oppat; and his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Lois Oppat.

He served proudly in the Army during the Korean War, rising to the rank of sergeant. He was stationed in Germany and had many fond memories of traveling in Europe. After an honorable discharge, he studied at Walsh Institute (College) graduating as a Certified Public Accountant. He went on to form his own accounting practice, which lasted 55 years. He worshiped at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Livonia. He was an active member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants, the Livonia Lamplighters Lion’s Club, and the Livonia Moose Lodge. Tom was recognized for his service to the Lion’s Club, for his idea to place the famous Lion’s Club “gumball machines” throughout the city, to raise money for charitable activities, including educational scholarships for Livonia students.

Enjoying time with family and friends was the focus of Tom’s life. He was quick with a lame joke, enjoyed pranking close friends, loved to laugh and tell silly facts. Tom also enjoyed spending hours “putzing around” in his yard – he was proud of his “wood lot.” And no matter their record, Tom was a devoted Detroit Tigers fan.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, Nov. 26, from 3-8 p.m. at Harry J. Will Funeral Homes, 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, with the funeral service conducted at the Funeral Home by Pastor Joshua Kreiger at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27. A luncheon is to immediately follow at St. Aidan's Church at 17500 Farmington Rd, Livonia.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Thomas' memory may be made to the American Cancer Society and/or St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church and School, 17810 Farmington Rd., Livonia, MI 48152.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at the online guestbook for the Oppat Family.