Corporal Marine, Thomas Harold Konen, 79 of Waterford, Michigan, passed away Monday, October 6th, surrounded by his family. Thomas was a retired roofer who proudly served 2 tours in Vietnam for the US Marines. He was proud of his service, and whenever someone asked him, “Under what branch did you serve?” his response would always be “There’s only one”.

Tom, or “Big T” as he was often called, was truly one of a kind. He was known to be a jokester, full of mischief and shenanigans; always joking around, and doing anything to get a laugh. Tom treasured those he loved deeply, and truly lived up to his “Big T” nickname with the size of his heart. His presence was larger than life, with an infectious smile that would light up a room. He was a man of simple joys and steady hands-the kind of person who could fix anything, grow everything, and make everyone laugh along the way. He was a proud father and the best Papa anyone could ask for. His life was rooted in family, hard work, and the quiet satisfaction of a day spent outdoors. Tom had a gift for storytelling, the kind that could make you laugh until you cried, or sit in silent awe, hanging on every word. His stories, often told with a twinkle in his eye and that trademark grin beneath his beard, will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He was rarely seen without his signature beard and his warm smile, both symbols of the gentle strength that defined him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on in the gardens he tended, the memories he planted, and the love he left behind.

Tom enjoyed fishing, riding his motorcycle, his Ford truck, early sunrises, the ocean, a good coney dog, and, of course, getting into mischief. Tom and his beloved wife, Sandra, spent their winter months enjoying the sunshine in Florida, and the summer months back in Michigan with their families. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Beatrice Konen of Lake Orion. He is survived in death by his wife, Sandra, of 26 years, his 4 siblings, and his children, Alicia (Mike) Peterman, Jennifer Hosner, Michael (Allyson) Konen, Anthony (Krystle) Konen, Lisa (Bruce) Keeth, Jill (Scott) Thayer, Scott (Lisa) De Groot, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A military funeral tribute and celebration of life luncheon has been planned for Saturday, October 25th.  

Military burial with taps honors: Square Lake Cemetery, Lake Orion, October 25th, @12:00. 

Celebration of life luncheon: Goodrich Country Club, 10080 Hegel Road, Goodrich, MI,  2 p.m.- 5 p.m. 

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