Thomas Bruce Michel's Obituary
Oreana – Thomas Bruce “Tom” Michel, of Oreana, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 5, 2025. He went to be with the Lord at age 87.
Tom was born in Rushville, IL, on April 1, 1938, (April Fool’s Baby) the son of William and Rose (Platzbecker) Michel. Tom was a devoted Catholic throughout his life. Serving as an altar boy in his childhood and later helping with Sunday services being a usher. He played basketball in Rushville, Illinois and went on to serve in the Marines for 2 years. Once a Marine always a Marine!!
He later found his calling in the restaurant business. He started in the Quad Cities at Mr. Steak and later got his own store in Decatur, IL. It later became Tommy B’s. Everyone knew and loved Tom.
He is survived by his wife Marsha Michel of 22 years and his brother William Michel; Marsha’s children: Shaela Schmidt (Brad), Daniel Park (Sam Phebus), Lynette Staley (Noble), and Michelle Kapper (John). Other family survivors: Tom’s daughters Lori Pate, Rona Garriott (Stan), and Toni Michel; grandchildren: Lauren, Lorielle, Lawrence, and Levai; great grandchildren are Kayla, Kendrick, and Ellie.
Tom loved God, his wife Marsha, his large family, and the outdoors. Gardening was his passion. He took pride in his garden of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. He was a very loving husband, father, and friend to many. He will be greatly missed. His favorite Bible verse is Titus 3: 5-6.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents Rose and William Michel, and his four sisters: Barbara, Rosie, Punky, and Joanne.
Visitation will be from 10 am until the funeral mass time of 11 am, Friday, January 9, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project or Paralyzed Veterans.
Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be left at https://gracelandfairlawn.com.
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