We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Thomas Peter Nadeau, 67, who died on November 3, 2025, in Dexter, Michigan, from complications related to diabetes. His loss has left us heartbroken, yet profoundly grateful for the years, memories, and love we shared with such an extraordinary human being. Tom was a gentle soul whose innate kindness and wide, ear-to-ear smile were impossible to miss.

Born in Marquette, Michigan, to Paul and Carol Nadeau, Tom was the youngest of three close-knit siblings; Michael Nadeau and Paula Shaughnessy. As children, they loved playing ping-pong together, and Tom enjoyed chess and model railroading with his dad and brother. At age eight, the family moved to Alpena, where Tom spent his childhood exploring wooded paths with friends and mock sword-fighting with sticks. His curious nature and dedication shone through in school and in gymnastics, where he was named to the All-American High School Gymnastics Team in 1976.

Tom was a dreamer who saw beauty in nature, people, and in different cultures. In the early 1980s, he joined the Peace Corps and taught math in Samoa. There, he met Ina Afutiti, with whom he quickly fell in love. They married in 1984 and later that year welcomed their daughter, Lagi, after moving to Michigan. Though they eventually divorced, they strengthened their friendship as they remained strong partners in parenting throughout the years. Tom treasured that connection and the kindness of his former in-laws, who always made him feel like family.

With a sharp mind and a gift for seeing patterns, Tom pursued his passion for math and computer science. He earned his Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan and became a published and highly respected figure in his field.

Tom’s mother, Carol, who later married Arvo Lahti following Paul’s passing, was an exceptional artist across many mediums. Her creativity deeply influenced Tom’s lifelong love of art and music. His interests were wide-ranging: playing guitar and flute, exploring art museums, reading, and watching gymnastics. Above all, he was a devoted father who encouraged Lagi to explore the world and believe in possibility. He brought that same love to his granddaughter, Kiona, whose presence never failed to light him up.

Tom was dearly loved by many. His warmth, wisdom, and the memories he leaves behind will be forever cherished.

Celebration of Life Luncheon

Friday, December 5th • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Stone Chalet, 1917 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

As we close, we’d like to leave you with a note Tom wrote after his daughter’s wedding:

“The celebration for my daughter's wedding was wonderful. About half of the people there were Samoan, from Lagi's mom's side of the family. Singing and dancing are part of Samoan culture. They even have a word for the singing and dancing parties, fiafia. Dan's family has an Irish background. Some of them were dancing traditional Irish dances. It was wonderful to be celebrating the two traditions together!

After the traditional dances, they opened up the floor for everyone to dance. As the festivities were going on, I thought to myself, this celebration of such distant cultures, together in north Chicago! What are the odds? How did this come to be? Then it occurred to me, Ina and I had set this in motion 40 years ago! Our actions brought cultures together long after we divorced.

Then I thought, this unifying effect will still be real long after we are gone, and our names are forgotten. That's a good legacy!

How we live our lives changes the world.” -Tom Nadeau

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