Trahern, affectionately known as “TJ”, was born on October 24th, 1968 in Warren, son of Lawrence and Joyce (Fuelling) Jasper. His early education as well as his junior high and high school years was spent in the Warren School District.
At age 17, TJ followed his passion to serve his country and joined the U.S. Army. TJ was proud to serve for 20 years and was active during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom. He achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant while earning many Medals, Citations, and Campaign Ribbons. He was awarded 2 Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, The Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the NCO Professional Development Ribbon along with many others. During the war, TJ specialized in Wheeled Vehicle Maintenance and was recognized on many occasions for his service. Following his active duty service, he continued to serve by transitioning into the U.S. Army Reserve. During TJ’s many years in the Reserve, he became well known at Camp Grayling for his cooking expertise. With his warm personality and strong work ethic fellow soldiers and officers could not help but respect and appreciate TJ’s company. In his final years, he was employed as a Carrier with the U.S. Postal Service.
A real ‘jack of all trades’ TJ could be counted on to help anyone, and everyone, do whatever needed to be done. Whether cooking, repairing a family member's car, or digging support holes for a deck, TJ was there. He had the biggest heart. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. He was always there for his family and friends or even strangers. An incredibly strong man, much like the tanks he worked on in the Army, he was also an incredibly kind, thoughtful, and loving man. TJ’s laugh, silliness, and comedic approach would just make everyone in the room light up and laugh.
TJ’s greatest love was for his “two blessings”, his sons Nathan Alexander and Zachary Lucas. They gave him a new beginning in life. He was a family man from day one. He truly loved every moment that he spent with his boys and cherished them deeply. They had many conversations about life and about how proud he was of their accomplishments. He pushed them to pursue their dreams and become even greater than he. TJ, one of seven children, also had an incredibly deep love for his brothers and sisters. He will be greatly missed but his legacy and presence will continue to live on in his sons and siblings. When they close their eyes they can still hear the echo of his laughter, loving words, meaningful advice, support, and smile.
In addition to his two Incredible sons, Nathan & Zachary, TJ is survived by his brothers and sisters: Lawrence (Rosalia) Jasper, Christopher (Claudia) Jasper, Michelle Jasper, Paul (Becky) Jasper, Frank (Wendy) Jasper, and Valerie Klein. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and his close friend, and former wife, Sherri Gilliam.
Military Honors and Committal Service will be held at Roseland Memorial Park Cemetery in Berkley. The services will be private for TJ’s family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.6