THOMAS M. WIRKUTIS

Tom, the bright shining light in our lives, passed away peacefully at Halifax Health Hospice in Port Orange, FL on July 14, 2016, appropriately Bastille Day as Tom was an avowed Libertarian. Tom was born in Muskegon, Michigan on October 28, 1939 to Ione Hickey Wirkutis and George Wirkutis. After graduating from high school Tom served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years rising to the rank of Electronics Technician (communications) Petty Officer 2nd Class. Availing himself of the GI Bill he attended Muskegon Community College and then transferred to the University of Michigan where he graduated in 1968 with a BA degree in Business Administration. His working life began at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI. In 1974 he made the unheard of decision to leave Ford and set out for San Francisco. He joined the worldwide construction firm Bechtel Corporation in the Procurement Department and spent the next 22 years there as a supervisor then Procurement Manager. His last working years were with Bank of America in Concord California as a Contract Negotiator. He retired from Bank of America as a Vice President in 1999.
The next 3-1/2 years Tom and his wife fulfilled their dream of full-timing' in their motorhome, traveling the United States, visiting long-lost relatives, exploring new areas of the country and enjoying beautiful and historical sights previously not visited.
Tom could not walk into a room without lighting it up. His wit and sense of humor warmed everyone within reach. From his jokes, to teasing, to stimulating discussions of current events, financial investments, etc., he had it all. He had a talent for storytelling that would captivate anyone within hearing distance. He was so generous in so many ways. We will miss him.
He is survived by his wife and best friend of 42 years, Martha Cumings Wirkutis, sister (also best friend) Pat Horsfall (Doug), nieces Jessica Horsfall, Ph.D. (they totally loved and admired each other) (Greg Tornga), Julie Bradley (thankful you were in his life again) (Scott), nephews Will Cumings (Kate), and Drew Cumings (Katelyn), he was so proud of you guys. Extended family Barb and Carl, Marilyn and Dick, Red and Deb, as well as numerous cousins. And we can't forget his feline family Clawed de Pussy, Purrl, Floppsie and Marty.
We would like to give special thanks to the compassionate care provided by the Halifax Hospice Nursing team, particularly "Ducky" who helped us navigate through these last few months and special kudos to close friend Carl who found a new meaning for the phrase "any landing you can walk away from is a good landing".
Tom requested that there be no services. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Halifax Health Hospice or any Humane Society of your choice. Condolences for the family may be shared at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com