Thomas C. Nankervis

Thomas C. Nankervis was born to Loretta H. Nankervis and John Nankervis in Detroit, MI on January 30, 1938. He passed away peacefully on December 25th, 2024, at his home on Grosse Ile, MI at the age of 86. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Stephanie (Johnson) Nankervis, his ex wife, Carol Nankervis, his daughters, Nancy Brown and Melissa Parks, his son-in-law, John Parks, his grandchildren, Josephine Teachout, Leilani Parks, Lainey Brown, and Robert Brown IV, as well as his sister, Joyce Turin. An exceptional father, husband and friend, Tom was always ready to help. He was an absolute original and a fierce protector of his family.

Tom was employed for 42 years as a stationary engineer for Detroit Public Schools. After retirement, he studied and received his builder’s license so he could continue to help others.

Tom was an avid sportsman and naturalist. His love of hunting was perhaps his greatest passion outside his family.

A thoughtful builder and creative artist, Tom created hundreds of beautiful artworks through stained glass, carving, and woodworking. Tom spent many hours planting and nurturing gardens that of course thrived; and he loved sharing the ample yields of those gardens with others.

A strong athlete and inspirational leader, Tom coached countless Special Olympics and ARC teams in a multitude of sports including baseball, bowling, basketball, golf, and others. To this day, he still holds a Grosse Ile High School record–the reason behind this record was one of his favorite stories to tell. Tom will always be remembered for his humorous expressions, his playful wit, and his entertaining anecdotes.

Tom is now at peace, joining his parents, his sons, John Nankervis and Christopher Anderson, and his sisters, Shirley Sterns and Elaine Ameluxen, and a younger brother, Jackie who died as a child. Certainly their reunited shenanigans are bringing them all as much laughter and joy as they brought us, during his time on earth.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Saint James Episcopal Church on Grosse Ile, where Tom served as an inspiration and mentor to so many, through his 39 years of sober service and dedication to the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program.

A memorial gathering will take place from 3:00 p.m. –7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3rd at Martenson Funeral Home in Trenton, MI. A memorial service will be held at Saint James Episcopal Church on Grosse Ile at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 4th. All are welcome.

Please visit Thomas' online guestbook and tribute wall to share memories and leave condolences for his family.