Thomas J. Neuner

He was born on Oct. 11, 1946. in Canton, Ohio, son of Joseph Herman and Gloria Jane (Bricker) Neuner. Tom graduated in 1964 from Glendale High School at the age of 17 and quickly enlisted in the Air Force.

With his parent’s permission, he served for four years during the Vietnam Era and then was honorably discharged. Following the military, Tom attended Northern Michigan University and graduated with honors with a bachelors in industrial education.

On Dec. 21, 1968, Tom married Esther Gail Maki in Stambaugh. They were blessed with 56 years of marriage and a son, Christopher.

Tom traveled extensively as a salesman for marine application throughout his career.

Tom and Esther were very active in their churches over the years, Calvary Lutheran in Quinnesec and Grace Lutheran Church in Pembine.

Tom and Esther taught each other many things over the years of their marriage. They proudly built their own home in Dunbar together and he also became an accomplished baker and together owned and operated Birchdale Bakery during their retirement years.

He was an animal lover; he and Esther rode horses, trained dogs, and rescued cats and especially loved his favorites Blanche and Stanley.

Tom was an avid golfer and achieved a hole in one at the Oak Crest Golf Course in Norway. He was also very active in the Dickinson County Community Theater, participating on stage in multiple musicals, directing, and set construction.

Among survivors include his wife, Esther of Dunbar; son, Christopher Thomas (Amy) Neuner of Melbourne, N.Y.; twin grandchildren, Garrick Christopher Neuner and Olivia Annalea Neuner; brother, Randall (Debbie) Neuner and Christine Hamlin; and niece and nephews, Ashley, Jason, and Joshua.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Harry Hamlin.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, June 28 beginning at 10 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, W8014 Minnie St., Pembine. The service will follow at 11 a.m. and will conclude with a luncheon.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.