Thomas C. Stephens

Manton - Thomas Clayton Stephens, longtime resident of Manton, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 1, 2019 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.  He was 81.  

Tom was born on September 11, 1937, in Detroit, to Thomas Newel Stephens and Florence Mae Warner. He grew up in the Detroit area before entering the military and proudly serving his country stationed aboard the USS New Jersey, as a member of the United States Navy.  He married the former Mary Helen Traynor, celebrating 53 years together before her passing in 2012.
Tom made his living as part owner and operator of Northern Michigan Spring in Kalkaska, retiring in 1999.  He enjoyed the many opportunities he had with friends sharing a good cup of coffee in the morning, often frequenting Bob Evans.  Tom could be found working a crossword puzzle, reading, or taking in the latest on television or watching PBS and History channels; especially if the programs were related to the military.

Thomas is survived by his children, Thomas Scott (Mary Kay) Stephens of Fullerton, CA, Andrea (Craig) Longstreet of Manton, Eric Stephens of Las Vegas; grandchildren, Lynn-Marie (Ryan) Kinkema, Codey Longstreet, Thomas Blake Stephens, and Kendall Stephens; great-grandchildren, Reece, Oakley, Evan, Dax and Hadley; one sister, Sylvia (Jerry) Berg; one sister-in-law, Marge Rodgers; as well as many other loving family members and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; a daughter, Alida and his parents.

Per his wishes cremation has taken place and graveside committal services will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Manton on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 1:00 pm. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

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