Thomas B. Boettcher

In Loving Memory of Thomas Brian Boettcher Tommy B., age 59, resident of Royal Oak Michigan, passed away suddenly on Saturday January 11, 2025. Tommy was born on October 1, 1965. Loving and devoted husband to Erica Boettcher. Super Dog Dad to Lily and Murphy. Beloved and loving son of Marilyn Joyce Boettcher (Pavelek). Beloved and loving son of the late Thomas Willard Boettcher. Loving son-in-law to Rozanne Oehring and the late Edwin Oehring. Loyal and loving brother to Cherie Boettcher, Kevin (Jenny) Boettcher, and Andrea Traylor. Amazing (Fun)cle to Austin Boettcher, Thomas (TJ) Boettcher and Emma Traylor. Loyal and supportive confidante to many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Early on, Tommy showed maturity beyond his years balancing his independence with a deep sense of connection to his family. He brought joy and laughter to his parents, was respectful, responsible, and made his parents proud. Tommy earned his bachelor's degree in 1987 from University of Detroit specializing in electrical engineering. He was soon offered employment with Ford Motor Company's Proving Grounds, a major test facility in AZ. This was an exciting and transformative chapter in his life. He packed up his 66 Mustang (with no air conditioning) and moved to Lake Havasu, AZ. Soon he would be the proud owner of a Ford Ranger, with air conditioning. Later his work with Ford moved him back to Michigan. While working he pursued and earned his master's degree in 2000 from University of Detroit. He dedicated his life's work to Ford Motor Company and was still working when he passed, coming up on his 37th anniversary. His love for his wife Erica knew no bounds. He was a partner in every sense of the word. Always there to share in the joys, carry the burdens and offer unwavering support through every step of life's journey. He was endlessly thoughtful; his love was constant. Their dogs, Lily and Murphy, were his buddies. He spoiled them with pure affection, walks, and special nighttime treats. To his siblings, nephews and niece, Tommy was there for them through triumphs and setbacks. Ready to celebrate and cheer them along, and there to give reminders of strength and potential. Tommy often enjoyed spending quality time with his brother and sister. Together he and his brother first bought Lions season tickets in 1998 and still share to this day. Every year, "this is going to be the year". He and his sister once spent a summer on a driving tour visiting Cooperstown and ballparks around the eastern US. He was a sports fan all around and enjoyed engaging in debates with family and friends about the best players and bonding over the love for the games. He also enjoyed camping, being outdoors, and tooling around in his treasured vehicles, whether it be his Mustang Cobra, motorcycle and most recently his Bronco Badlands. He had a deep appreciation for nature's beauty and the sense of freedom that comes with it. The fresh air, enjoying the simplicity of life away from the hustle and bustle was a way to reconnect and find peace. Whether it was a quiet evening at home with Erica and Lily, a fun filled family gathering, a concert or sports event, he found joy in every moment spent surrounded by loved ones. He understood the value of togetherness and made a point to prioritize family. He looked forward to holidays, celebrations and even weekly scheduled Zoom calls with his mom and siblings. His presence made family gatherings fun and full of laughs with his dry humor and creative one liners. His easygoing nature and willingness to spend time with family are qualities that made him truly special. For Tommy, time spent with loved ones wasn't just a way to pass they day - it was a chance to build lasting memories and experience the pure joy that only family and friends can bring. Though we mourn his loss, we take solace in the memories and the love he shared with all of us. His spirit will live on in our hearts forever. Tommy's family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 5:30 p.m. at the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Road (3 blocks East of Van Dyke), Utica. Funeral mass on Friday, January 17, instate from 9:00 a.m. until the time of his mass at 9:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 44633 Utica Road, Utica. Interment at St. Lawrence Cemetery. Memorials are appreciated to the Humane Society of Macomb, 11350 22 Mile Road, Utica, MI 48317, or to the Gift of Life Foundation 2203 Platt Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 www.giftoflifemichigan.org. Please share a story or leave a tribute at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Thomas B. Boettcher

October 1, 1965 - January 11, 2025