Thomas E. Awrey

Thomas E. Awrey, 94, passed away December 10, 2025, at his home in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by his family. Tom was born and raised in West Branch, Michigan, where he met his high school sweetheart, Shirley Vincent. A day before his wedding in 1951, Tom received his draft notice for the Korean War and served for two years as a Marine. He became a Michigan State Police officer in 1957 and retired in 1980. He was a member of the underwater dive team and later worked undercover in the Special Investigation Unit. One detail included working with the Secret Service of then President Gerald Ford at the National Cherry Festival. During the parade, President Ford recognized Tom and called out, “Hi Tom, how are you?” which blew Tom’s cover and jeopardized his identity as an undercover agent.

Tom was a devout Catholic and joined the fraternal organization of the Knights of Columbus where he served as Grand Knight of the Three Oaks Council, entered the 4th Degree in 1960, and was commander of the Honor Guard. He was awarded Knight of the Year in 1961 and is an Honorary Life Member of the Immaculate Conception Parish of Traverse City. At his time of death, he was an active member of St. Francis Church. Tom was very proud that two of his grandsons became Knights and later, his son Michael, joined the rank to honor a special wish of his father.

Tom’s passion was downhill skiing. He taught skiing into his 90s and was a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) for 52 years. Ski areas where he taught include Lansing Ski Club, Snow Snake, Schuss Mt., Boyne Mt, Sugar Loaf, and the Homestead where he made his final run at age 91.

Tom was a devoted family man, had a wealth of experiences that he could easily recall and often possessed the “six degrees of separation” as he seemed to have connections with everyone. He was full of grit, yet very patient and loving; humble, forgiving and kind. He used his unique sense of humor to make others laugh and smile.

Tom is survived by his wife of 74 years, Shirley, sister Betty Lou Carscallen, his children, Tom Jr. (Barb), Kimberley ( John) Lowe and Michael (Anne-Marie), and six grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1025 S. Union Street, Traverse City, Michigan 49684, with the Rev. Michael Lingaur celebrant. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Tom’s legacy can be made to the St. Francis Knights of Columbus Council # 13958 c/o St. Francis Church.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com