- Date Of Birth: March 30, 1947
- Date Of Death: July 4, 2020
- State: Michigan
Passed away on July 4, 2020. Tom was born March 30, 1947 in Kalamazoo, the son of Jack D. and Charlotte (Watson) Reeves. He served in the U.S. Army (1966-1969) with tour in Vietnam. He was employed for 27 years with James Rivers and retired from South Haven Public Schools after 17 years as Building Maintenance Supervisor.
Tom lived an active and rich life right up to his sudden passing. He was wood crafting in his shop, pumping iron at his gym, devotedly attending church, and cruising in his Jeep Wrangler. His zest for life was inspired by his deep love and devotion and close touch with his family and many friends, and strong faith. Many may best remember his as being a giver, always willing to lend a hand to those in need, a listening ear, and extending a smile and kind word to everyone he met.
Following the Reeves’ legacy, Tom was an outstanding athlete who excelled in all sports, especially baseball. Coached as a toddler by his Dad and older brother, Tom’s team went on to win Millwood’s National Little League Championship.
He coached both his sons and Little League teams, greatly enjoying watching their inherent athletic abilities. He went on to play with his company’s league for many years. He also played League golf and bowling, was an avid Tigers fan, and enjoyed watching live play.
Tom was a skilled craftsman, creating many pieces in his work shop, which he both gifted and donated for school fundraising auctions.
Upon moving to South Haven, his lifelong family vacation town, he solely designed and built his cedar sided home from ground to roof. Amidst a heavy schedule working at the elementary school, he always found time to accept invitations to visit the classrooms to read and tell stories and give out hugs and loving attention sought from the children.
Tom returned to Kalamazoo after retirement to be near family, sharing close contact with all. He became a devoted member of Free Methodist Church, where he held close friendships and volunteered in many projects and events.
He was reconnected with many long-term friends, High School buddies and teammates, and continued touch with South Haven friends and dear friends made along the way.
Tom passed peacefully with his loving sister and sons at his side.
On Independence Day, befitting to a Veteran who loved his country.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Jack D. and Charlotte Reeves and brother, David Reeves.
He is survived by his children, Steven Reeves, Dan (Lynnette) Reeves, and Sara Reeves (adopted daughter); grandchildren, Amber Newell, Ryan and Veronica Reeves, Andrew, Claire, and Gideon Hodges; great-grandchildren, Haylie Reeves, Addison Reeves, Emma and Allison Newell; his sister, Mary Beth Reeves; sister-in-law, Patricia Reeves; niece and nephew, Shannon Preda and David Reeves and their children.
