Thomas James "Tom" Blais' Obituary
Thomas James “Tom” Blais, age 91, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at the Poppen Residence of Harbor Hospice. Tom was born May 26, 1934 in Muskegon, MI to Louis and Angela (LeMeiux) Blais and was a lifelong resident of the community. Tom graduated from St. Jean’s Catholic High School in the Class of 1952. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army for two years. On November 27, 1968, he married Karen L. Cihak at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Muskegon. Tom spent most of his career in the auto industry and in 1974, he founded Blais Lincoln Mercury Car Dealership which he owned and operated until his retirement in 1998. In his younger days, Tom was a member of the Muskegon Yacht Club where he sailed and raced E Scow Class sailboats. He enjoyed reading in his den and working in his yard and flower gardens. Tom will be remembered for his dry sense of humor, generous spirit, and skill in mixing a mean Old Fashioned. Survivors include his loving wife of 58 years, Karen Blais; 2 sons, Tom (Lisa) Blais, Bill Blais; 2 grandchildren, twins Jack and Madeline Blais; and many nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his parents and 9 siblings, Jeanne Comeau, Robert Blais, George Blais, Louise Price, Richard Blais, Joseph Blais, Ann Geraty, twin Jerry Blais, and Herbert Blais. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 AM Thursday, May 28, 2026 at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 239 W. Clay Ave., Muskegon, MI 49440, with Rev. Fr. Michael P. Olson presiding. Entombment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be held 5-8 PM Wednesday at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, and one hour prior to the Mass on Thursday at the church. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Muskegon Rescue Mission (https://www.muskegonmission.org). Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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