Thomas John Platschorre, age 70 of Monterey Center, died May 13 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on May 27, 1954, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, Tom was the sixth of ten children, and lived in a busy household full of love and good cooking.
He began earning money at an early age, fixing cars in his brother’s driveway. On his 13th birthday he officially entered the workforce sweeping the parking lot at the local dime store, where, by the age of 16 ½, he had been entrusted with a set of keys and a list of employees who would report to him.
After a few other jobs, Tom landed at Howard Miller Clock Company, where he stayed for 24 years. He remained busy outside of work, and in retirement, crafting countless projects for family and friends, always ready to lend a hand. He was an incredible woodworker and found great joy in the craft itself, but even more in the smiles of those he created pieces for.
Tom attended Godwin Heights High School ,where he ran with a tight-knit crew called the ‘Sky Pilots’ — bound by a loyalty and camaraderie he’d carry through life. He was happiest surrounded by the people he loved and was always up for a good time with them — whether it be a drop-in visit, a camping trip, a night of bowling or dominoes, or a party in the pool. A natural host, he was sure to have a Miller in the fridge for you, Willie on the speakers, and when it was time to part, the best goodbye hugs.
At times he’d whip out a party trick and win an arm-wrestling match, do the ‘flagpole’, or play Amazing Grace on the harmonica. When he wasn’t entertaining you would often find him out hunting, fishing, tending to his house and lawn, or loving on his dogs.
Tom is survived by his wife of 31 years, Debra (Geluso) Platschorre; his children, Stephanie (Tony) Pearson, Tom (Kendra) Platschorre and their mother, Patricia (Pyke) Platschorre; as well as Joe Chan and Amanda (Thomas) Kelley, lovingly welcomed by marriage.
A proud grandpa, papa and gump, he is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Colin Pearson, Alexa Pearson, Nola Pearson, T.J. Platschorre, Kaleb Platschorre, Hudson Platschorre, Harper Platschorre, Mitchell Chan, Landon Chan, JoJo Chan, Trey Ward and Nala Ward.
He also leaves behind: siblings, Daniel (Lee Ann) Platschorre, (Connie) Platschorre, (Danny) Potter, Sandra (Kevin) Beyer, Barbara Daniels, Paul Platschorre, Gladys Dorn, Timothy (Lisa) Platschorre, Jack Platschorre; many cherished nieces and nephews; and his devoted pup, Sissy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Gladys Platschorre; daughter, Kimberly Platschorre; sister, Judy Potter; brother, James Platschorre; and brothers-in-law Gordan Dorn and Robert Daniels.
A celebration of life will be held Monday, May 19, at Gorden Funeral Residence in Hopkins. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11. Burial will take place at Poplar Hill Cemetery immediately after the service, with a memorial luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society would be appreciated.
