Thomas's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Thomas here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Tom was my entry-level Spanish teacher at Justin Morrill College at Michigan State in 1969-70. He was a very gifted and animated teacher. I've thought of him a few times over the years, wondering what became of his life. I just decided to do a search and, sadly, through his obituary, I now know. And I am delighted to learn he lived such a richly rewarding life. While we were not in touch all these many years, I still can speak and read some Spanish, thanks to him. My condolences to his family and wide circle of good friends.
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Phil Nash, Denver, CO
September 6th, 2022 at 1:35pm
I am absolutely shocked and devastated to find that Tom has passed. I had moved to New Orleans for some time and was thinking before I came up recently how much I looked forward to contacting Tom and catching up. My heart hurts to find I am just a bit too late. He helped me through such a difficult time in my life and I used to come paint his house and clean out his rooms and fix his gardens and clean his yard. He'd cook me a nice breakfast and chat with me. His smile and positive attitude and the way he listened and his kindness really made some dark days better. I'll absolutely never forget him -- the world lost a remarkable human being.
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Jackie
August 13th, 2022 at 5:15pm
Joel, Jamie, and family, we send our deepest condolences. Praying for strength for for you all.
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Tim & Erin
August 7th, 2022 at 9:18pm
I am the grandchild of Mable Hillman Schneider which was Tom’s mom’s sister. This would make him my 2nd cousin. I do remember him and how kind he always was and his comforting smile. I remember how welcoming he was whenever we spoke and when we met. He talked a lot about having a family reunion. I feel blessed to of crossed paths. He was truly a gentle soul. Rest in Peace cousin Tom
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April Angeles((2nd cousin) on Mable Hillman Schneider side
August 7th, 2022 at 7:38am
The last time I saw Tom was at St. Basil’s at the funeral for Betty Davis. Tom was seated in the pew behind Jane and me; he tapped me on the shoulder. I turned around and there he was. We hugged and later had a good chat at the Yacht Club after the funeral. Tom was outstanding in many ways and will be remembered always for his sincere interest in people, his strong desire to always do the right thing, and his ever present caring and kindness. He was an exceptional athlete, an extraordinary student, a hard worker, a good businessman, and a great guy to know. Tom added to the lives of many, many people.
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Jim Bauschke
August 5th, 2022 at 11:38am
Tom was one of my first dates when he invited me to an Elks’ Club “prom”. I was thrilled! Later he worked for my father at Kalamazoo International where he represented the firm well, especially with his gift of languages. Warm hugs to Joel and his whole family. He was a good, kind man.
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Susan Butler
August 4th, 2022 at 11:20pm
Tom was an ineffable force of nature. Remarkably unique and gifted in so many human attributes. Intuitively compassionate and emotionally empathetic enhanced by a striking bilingual intelligence. A strong athlete Tom discovered that a fun way to still be fiercely competitive and athletic was playing frisbee. Here he found a fun sport where he could mix passion, with skill and ability, while staying positive and instructive. Life is not easy for people with so many natural gifts but Tom is a constant reminder that in our daily struggles we must never abandon the basics of all human understanding, kindness and love.
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Sandy Jensen, Connell Davis and Family
August 4th, 2022 at 12:50pm
Tom made a difference in so many lives. He was the ultimate giver. He and I go back to HS, where he was a terrific athlete and even better person. We saw each other when he studied at the UW in Madison. Always upbeat with a huge smile, I will miss Tom. Indeed it was a blessing to have known him. My heart goes out to the family.
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Tony Canonie
August 4th, 2022 at 12:41pm
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. My deep condolences to the family and Jean. Tom was a class ahead of me, but we always went to each other’s reunions. Whenever our paths would cross, he always took time to talk. He was a loving, caring, compassionate man with a wonderful smile. He will be so missed by so many. Prayers to all.
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Suzanne Williams Scott
August 4th, 2022 at 9:58am
My sincere condolences to Tom’s family and also to my friend, Jean. I last saw Jean and Tom a month ago at my sister, Joanie’s, visitation. It was always a pleasure to run into Tom over the years and to chat. For some reason he always made me feel special. Now, reading all these memories from others, I see that was just his way with everyone. RIP Tom, I hope you and Joanie will have a great reunion. Give her a hug for me. Andie
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Andrea (Reznik) Johnson
August 3rd, 2022 at 10:19pm
Tom Tamandl..brilliant,athletic,quirky,energetic, left-handed, positive, Christian..classmate, teammate and dearest of friends. Thank you Tamandl Family for sharing him with us..gone but never forgotten.
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Carl Olsen
August 3rd, 2022 at 8:37pm
Joel - So sorry for your family's loss. Tom and I played one year of high school football and baseball (conference champs in both sports), and then I follow Tom as the President of the South Haven Kiwanis Club. I always enjoyed fellowship with your dad. Keeping your family in my prayers.
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John Long
August 3rd, 2022 at 4:24pm
To Joel and Family, I am truly sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Over the years I have crossed paths with your Dad many times and he has always been willing to take a few moments to chat, just a very nice man. You are in my prayers.
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Jon Dorow
August 3rd, 2022 at 1:58pm
I was so shocked and saddened to learn of Tom's passing. I worked with Tom at Michigan HRDI in Kalamazoo for this entire time there. Tom had the biggest heart and wanted to help as many people as he could. Whenever the front office needed someone to interpret those who only spoke Spanish, he was there to assist. Tom had a lot of stories and loved his Michigan State and went to as many games as possible. We had a lot of good talks. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be so missed.
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Shirley
August 3rd, 2022 at 11:50am
My deepest sympathy to Tom's family. He will be missed by his many friends. RIP, Tom
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Dorothy Cutshaw
August 2nd, 2022 at 8:52pm
To Tom's family. My condolences to you. Tom was a great person. He cared so much about his friends. I counted Tom as a special friend. Even tho he was older, he always attended my class reunions. Rest on peace my friend. You will be missed by all.
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Diane Kelley Ford
August 2nd, 2022 at 8:31pm
To Tom's Family, Tom and I were fraternity brothers at Michigan State. I was his "Big Brother" and he my "Little Brother" when he pledged. From that unique beginning, we developed a long-lasting friendship whose flames were rekindled whenever we would get together at a fraternity function. Those meeting were wonderful because, as his obituary stated, Tom epitomized "indomitable optimism." His enthusiasm for life and friendship was all-encompassing. My brothers and I are incredibly saddened by his sudden passing and extend our prayers and condolences to you all. Sent with love.
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Mike Jolly
August 2nd, 2022 at 6:44pm
It's so difficult to capture what Uncle Tom meant to us in a few words. We both have very early memories of him being involved in our lives - he was a very loving and devoted uncle and spent tons of time with us as we were growing up. I (Kelley) learned many trick Frisbee throws from him at the beach and still enjoy it many decades later! He was always keenly interested in what was going on in our lives and with our kids and had a way of making you feel like there was no one else in the room when he was talking with you. He was the consummate optimist and that was always very refreshing. He always looked for the good in everyone - and usually found it. He missed Grandma terribly after she died...what a joyful reunion they must have had! We love you, Uncle Tom. You will be missed very much. Your loving nieces, Jill and Kelley
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Jill and Kelley
August 2nd, 2022 at 6:41pm
Family of Tom, He was a wonderful human being. I loved him from the day I met him when he joined Central School in the 9th grade coming from St. Basils. He was my date to the Sadie Hawkins dance in the 9th grade. We used to talk about that eventful day when we would get together. He would stop by for late night talks and a snack when coming home from Kazoo at work. Enjoyed that tap tap tap on my dining room window and It was always Tom. You will be missed. !!!!
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Brenda Fields Balfour
August 2nd, 2022 at 5:20pm
Though eight years older than me, Tom was one of those South Haven natives who seemed to treat you the same, year after year, from my childhood to chats at the Wellness Center in the last couple of years. Always smiling, always positive, he looked you in the eye and listened to what you had to say. That sort of communication is an endangered species these days. Though I don't know his family, I do want them to know he is not forgotten. Sincere, perpetual light is a rare thing. Grace back to you.
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PJ Canonie-Bubin
August 2nd, 2022 at 11:26am
I worked with Tom at Michigan Works! in Kalamazoo. He was a wonderful, caring, giving individual, who will be missed by anyone who ever came in contact with his gentle soul. Rest in Peace Tom.
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Chris
August 2nd, 2022 at 7:21am
I have fond memories of us playing little league ball together. I think your Father was the coach of our team. Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed. Condolences to your Sister and Family.
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Norm Fouts
August 1st, 2022 at 10:11pm
