Thomas L. Hemmes

Thomas L. Hemmes, 67 of Rockford, went to Heaven, Monday, February 7, 2011. Mr. Hemmes, the son of Warren and Angeline (Lekenta) Hemmes, was born October 5, 1943 in Grand Rapids, MI. He was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis; member of the Newaygo VFW Post #4249; a machinist at Steelcase for 34 years retiring in 1999; and a member of the Scram Lake Association. Surviving are his children: Patrick Hemmes, David Hemmes, Christina Hemmes, Angel Hemmes, and Louise Parish (Scott Miller); grandchildren: Lucas Kavanaugh, Hilary Kavanaugh, and Whitney Hemmes; brothers: Warren Hemmes, Jerry (Billi Jo) Hemmes, Dennis (Dawn) Hemmes; sister: Barbara (Frank) DiPiazza; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy M. in 1999 and two grandchildren, Stephanie and Brittany. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs, where services will be held Thursday 11:00 a.m., Rev. Fr. Michael Cilibraise officiating. Interment Courtland Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to North Kent Community Services.