Thomas Whitledge

THOMAS DUNCAN WHITLEDGE, age 62, of Schoolcraft, MI. A most wonderful husband, father, son, brother, friend left us way too soon on November 18, 2016. Thomas Duncan Whitledge was the first baby born in Port Huron's Mercy Hospital on August 15, 1954, the son of Marvin and Dorothy Lee (D. L. Usher) Whitledge. Inseparable since 1974, he and Cynthea Carlson married in 1978. Their daughter, Usher, arrived in 1997 to complete their wonderful family. Thom received a B.S. from Western Michigan University and an MBA from Unversity of Phoenix. He grew up in Portage, MI and began his career at Upjohn Pharmaceuticals. He was currently Corporate Account Director, Long Term Care, at Sunovion Pharmaceuticals. During his career, the family lived in Michigan, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado, returning again to Michigan in 2006 to be closer to extended family. A school report on World War II when he was young began a lifelong interest in all things historical and an extensive collection of worldwide military collectibles. Another passion was his music collection and playing his guitars. He passed that talent on to his nephew, Duncan. He was a bird watcher and very knowledgeable on all things flora and fauna. Many animals, including strays, found refuge at the Whitledge home. Because of his career, Thom travelled a lot so time at home with his family was treasured. They loved hiking, reading, going to movies, doing household chores and just being together. They also enjoyed exploring foreign and domestic cultures. Along with numerous 5K and 10K runs, Thom proudly completed marathons in Bay City, MI, Chicago and Hawaii. He seemed to be the picture of health and happiness. Besides his wife and daughter, Thom had a larger loving family. Birthday and holiday gatherings, dinners out "just because," trips to family reunions in Kentucky and Ohio, an overnight hike in the Grand Canyon and a tour of Europe will be thought of fondly for those of us who were able to be with each other during those times. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cynthea; daughter, Usher; father, Marvin Whitledge; sister, Laurie LeClear; brother, Mark (Jamie) Whitledge; mother-in-law, Lu (Dick) Schwikert; nieces, nephews, relatives in addition to many friends and colleagues near and far. Cremation has taken place. Close friends and family will participate in a celebration of Thom's life on December 10 from 2-5 PM at his residence. Donations may be made in Thom's name to The Alzheimer's' Association or the Audubon Society, www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp www.audubon.org. Langeland Family Funeral Homes