Thomas K. Wallis' Obituary
Thomas K. Wallis, age 75, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at home, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 14, 1948 in Cadillac, MI to Hubert and Edith (Burgess) Wallis. He married the love of his life, Wilma, on August 14, 1976 and they have resided in the Muskegon area since 1977.
Tom was a Veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was also an educator and began his teaching career with Muskegon Public Schools before becoming a long time employee of Breakaway Bicycles. He later returned to teaching at Michigan Dunes Montessori before retiring in 1994.
Tom was a passionate cyclist, participating in everything from scheduled bike tours to self-contained rides with family and friends. He was a lifelong advocate for bicycle safety, speaking in schools and organizing community events. Tom was actively involved for many years with the Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) event, contributing to mechanics, bicycle support, logistics, education, and riding.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his wife, Wilma Wallis, as well as their two children, Kasey (Milton) Comely and Corey (Eevee) Wallis; five grandchildren, Daemond Wallis, Sophie Spaniola, Johnny Comely, Gwenevere Comely and Anakin Snider; brother, John (Janet) Wallis along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life for Tom will be Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 1:00pm – 5:00pm at Barclay Place Event Center, 2330 Barclay Street, Muskegon, MI 49441, with military honors at 3pm.
The family has chosen to continue Tom’s legacy of promoting bicycle safety by requesting children’s helmets in lieu of flowers. After final collection on the 25th of August, one large donation of helmets will be made in his name to the Muskegon County Bicycle Coalition for their programs. Helmets and monetary donations to purchase helmets can be mailed to: Wilma Wallis, 1025 Wildwood Lane, Muskegon, MI 49441.
Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. Muskegon, MI 49441 (231) 759-8565.
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