Thomas Russell Sullivan

Thomas "Tom" Russell Sullivan, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2023, at the age of 94. He was born on December 29, 1928, in Butte, Montana, to the late Leo and Lavina Sullivan. Tom and his family relocated to Michigan when he was a young boy, setting the stage for his future love and accomplishments. As a teenager, Tom crossed paths with the love of his life, Joan Walleman, during her visit to his sister. It was a magical encounter that would shape their lives forever. Tom and Joan exchanged vows on May 19, 1951, at St. Veronica Catholic Church in East Detroit, embarking on a journey filled with love and devotion that lasted over six decades. Following his service in the Korean War, during which Tom and Joan exchanged countless heartfelt letters, they settled in Roseville before moving to East Detroit, where they raised their beautiful family. Tom's remarkable talent for carpentry and mechanics allowed him to transform each home they inhabited into a sanctuary, a testament to his dedication and craftsmanship. A dedicated employee, Tom spent many years working for General Motors at the Tech Center as a skilled Journeyman in experimental auto products. His commitment and expertise left an indelible mark on the industry. In 1991, after a career marked by hard work and unwavering loyalty, Tom retired, leaving a legacy of excellence behind. Tom's faith was an integral part of his life, and he was a devout Catholic until the very end. Known for his deep understanding of the Bible, he found solace and guidance within its words. Additionally, Tom had a passion for history, particularly American wars, fueling his thirst for knowledge and inspiring many thought-provoking conversations. For leisure and as a cherished hobby, Tom immersed himself in bird hunting, often accompanied by his loyal English Setter, aptly named "Happy." These hunting excursions created memories that will forever be treasured by those who experienced them with him. Tom's proud Irish heritage was evident in the endearing terms of endearment he used, referring to friends and acquaintances as "Lad" or "Lassie." Tom's unwavering kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. His legacy of hard work, devotion, and love will forever be remembered. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Joan; his cherished children; his adoring grandchildren & great-grandchildren; and a network of friends and extended family.

Beloved husband of Joan Sullivan; loving father of Tommy Sullivan, Kim (Mark) Ross, and Erin (Scott) Fournier; proud ‘Grampy’ of Justin (Amanda Meek) Fournier, Jessie (Matthew) Thompson, Nathan (Jorie) Founier, and Amanda (Erik) LaCoss; cherished ‘Great-Grampy’ of Wyatt Thompson, Georgia Thompson, Teddy Fournier, and Jack Fournier; dear brother of Delores “Dolly” Winkler, and Jean Christenson. Tom is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Tom is preceded in passing by his dear parents Leo and Lavina Sullivan, siblings Patrick Sullivan, Neil Sullivan, Hannah Mae Bowman, and Jerry Sullivan.

Visitation to take place on Sunday, December 3 at Lee-Ellena Funeral Home from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass to take place on Monday, December 4 at St. Paul of Tarsus Catholic Church. Instate, or gathering time, 9:30 AM. Mass at 10:00 AM. Procession to follow to Resurrection Cemetery, where military honors and committal prayers will take place.

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