Thomas Charles Kaleel

Thomas attended De LaSalle Collegiate High School and graduated with honors in 1937. At the young age of 16, “Tailspin Tommy” received his pilot’s license, and flying would become one of his life’s greatest passions. During WWII he enlisted in the United States Air Force, flew combat missions over much of Europe, and returned after the end of the war to fly relief missions during the Berlin Air Lift. He was also a veteran of the Korean War and was honorably discharged at the rank of Master Sergeant in 1966.

In 1982, Tom became a member of VFW Bruce Post 1146 in St. Clair Shores MI, where in 1988 he rose to the esteemed position of Post Commander. In recognition of his many years of faithful service to the VFW, we was awarded life emeritus status, and remained deeply committed to the VFW and thoroughly enjoyed the companionship of his fellow veterans. Tom retired as a service technician from MichCon in 1984, and was a longtime resident of St. Clair Shores, MI.

Tom was well-known as a loving and devoted family man, loyal friend, and dedicated military veteran who deeply loved his country. He was a devout Roman Catholic of the Maronite rite, and prayers were an important part of his daily routine. A survivor of the great depression, he overcame many serious health issues in his youth, and went on to live a fulfilling, active, and healthy life into his early 90’s. He is survived by his wife Sharon; 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will take place from 2-9 pm on Friday, February 22nd at Kaul Funeral Home, located at 28433 Jefferson Avenue, SCS, MI 48080; with a rosary at 7:00 pm, and VFW honor guard at 7:30 pm. A funeral mass is scheduled for 10:00 am, Saturday, February 23rd at St. Paul’s on the Lake in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI. Tom will be interred at Great Lakes National Veterans Cemetery in Holly, MI.