Thomas A. Gerken

Bridgeport, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away at the age of 75 years on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at Henry Ford Hospital, with his family at his side.

The son of the late Robert E. and Arleen (Metiva) Gerken, Tom was born on April 16, 1948, in Saginaw, Michigan. He graduated from Buena Vista High School with the class of 1966, where he played football and baseball. Tom proudly served in the United States Army Reserve, until he was Honorably Discharged. He married Marlene A. Krys on July 6, 1968, at Faith Lutheran, Bridgeport, Michigan; she survives him. Tom was an owner and operator of Thomas Gerken Builders, retiring in 2019 after many years of loyal and dedicated service. He was a lifelong member of Faith Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher. Tom was an integral part of his church and community, leaving his handprint and hard work in various ways. He was a past President of the former Bridgeport Country Club, former member of the Bridgeport Historical Society and the Home Builders Association. Tom was an active board member of the Bridgeport Township Planning Commission, Construction Board of Appeals, and an active lifetime member of NCOA. In his spare time, Tom enjoyed golfing, softball, bowling, and spending time at his summer home in Au Gres. He was passionate in learning about the history of war, especially the Civil War. Above all, Tom cherished the time spent with his family and loved ones, especially his grandchildren.

Surviving besides his wife: Marlene A. Gerken; are their two daughters: Denise and Tom LeRoux, Tommi and Brent Lough; grandchildren: Erin LeRoux (finance, Justin Beal), Emilee LeRoux, Andrew Lough; brothers and sister: Don (Laura) Gerken, Gary (Linda) Gerken, Dave (Sandra) Gerken, Bill (Kim) Gerken, Bob (Monica) Gerken, Jean (Roger) Lisee; brother and sister-in-law: Jim (Gladys) Krys, Pat (Tim) Janke. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Funeral Service will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Faith Lutheran Church of Bridgeport, 4241 Williamson Rd, Saginaw, MI 48601. Pastor Timothy Behnke will officiate with cremation to follow. Military Honors will take place under the auspices of the United States Army and American Legion Post 22. Friends may visit the family from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 5700 Dixie Hwy, Saginaw, MI 48601. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Faith Lutheran Church, NCOA Scholarship Fund, or a charity of your choice. Please share your condolences and memories with the family at the visitation, funeral, or online at https://www.casefuneralhome.com.