Theodore Kerr

T. Thomas Kerr, age 82, of Royal Oak, passed away on June 12, 2025. Thomas was born in Detroit on January 4, 1943 to Theodore and Rena Kerr. He was raised in Royal Oak, Michigan, where he graduated from St. Mary's High School. After high school, Thomas enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving with distinction for eight years. A Vietnam veteran, he was a recipient of both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star-testaments to his courage, sacrifice, and dedication to his country. While stationed at an Air Force base in Minnesota, Thomas met the love of his life, Patricia. Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Thomas spent a year working in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, so that he could remain close to Patricia. Soon enough though, he and Patricia moved back to Thomas' home state of Michigan to start their family. Thomas enjoyed a long career in the automotive industry. Beyond work, he was a man of passion and spirit. He loved golfing, horse racing, and cars. One of his greatest joys was cruising in his convertible Mustang. When he returned home, his grandchildren would gather eagerly as he revved the engine and raised the top in the driveway, always ready to share a moment of excitement and laughter. A proud Native American and veteran, Thomas and his veteran brothers were a familiar sight in the Royal Oak Memorial Day Parade for many years, honoring their heritage and military service with dignity and pride. He treasured the many summers with his grandchildren, honoring the traditions at the Sault Ste. Marie Chippewa Tribe Powwows. Thomas will be remembered as the beloved husband of Patricia (née Swenson). Loving father of Lynette Yeager, Jennifer (Jorge) Acevedo, Tara (Casey) Crosbie, Natalie (Nick) Schulte, and the late Theresa Pickering. Proud grandfather (Papa) of Steven, Christopher, Savannah, Julian, Joshua, Brendan, Antonio, Alejandro, Allison, and Aidan; and great-grandfather of six. Dear brother of Anne (Tom) Cross, David (Pam) Kerr, Paul (Kiersten) Kerr, and the late Fr. Bob, Harvey, John, Michael, and Renee. Visitation for Thomas will be held on Monday, June 16, from 3 - 7 p.m. (Sharing of Memories at 6:30 p.m.) at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors, 705 W. Eleven Mile Rd., Royal Oak. The Funeral Mass for Thomas will be held on Tuesday, June 17 at 10:00 a.m. (9:30 a.m.visitation) at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 13500 Oak Park Blvd., Oak Park. Interment will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan at a later time. If you would like to make a memorial contribution in honor of Thomas, please consider a donation to Disabled Veterans of America

Theodore Kerr

January 4, 1943 - June 12, 2025