Thomas Earl Rickelman, 90, passed away peacefully May 9, 2025.
A private funeral service will be held by the family
He was born December 30, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Edward and Edith Rickelman. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Patsy Green Rickelman, and his parents.
Tom grew up in Birmingham, Michigan, and graduated from Birmingham High School, where he was a standout athlete, playing tackle on the football team and setting records in shot put for the track team. A proud and lifelong Michigan State football fan, Tom fulfilled a dream by attending Michigan State University, where he played on the football team.
He was also active in the SAE fraternity and met the great love of his life, Patsy. The two married soon after graduation and went on to raise three children.
Tom built a successful career as a manufacturer’s representative in the HVAC industry. His son Tommy eventually worked side-by-side with him, in turn forming not only a strong business partnership but an enduring father-son bond.
In Tom’s later years, Tommy lovingly cared for Tom, allowing him to remain in the comfort of home while dealing with health issues.
Tom had a lifelong passion for sailing and was a proud member of the Columbia Yacht Club. He raced in the Chicago to Mackinac Race for more than 25 years and treasured the friendships and adventures it brought him.
He and Patsy also loved to travel, spend summers on the lake in Coldwater, Michigan and winters in Bonita Springs, Florida.
Tom is survived by his siblings, Don Rickelman (Jill) and Diane Kohler; his three children, Pam Gunst (Rick), Susan Clingen (Ken), and Tommy Rickelman; his grandchildren, Ryan Gunst (Laura), Kelly Pawelski (Danny), and Conor Clingen (Cassidy); his great-grandchildren, Monroe, Landon, and Carter Gunst, and Shane Pawelski, and his companion, Candice Kuhnen. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a charity of your choice in Tom’s memory.
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