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THOMAS D. PIPER

Thomas David Piper, age 73, of Alpena passed away peacefully after an extended illness on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, at MidMichigan Medical Center-Alpena surrounded by his family.

On July 30, 1944, Thomas was born to the late Clarence and Stella (Smolinski) Piper. Tom had a great love of the outdoors: hunting, quad riding, snowshoeing, or cutting wood, these were Tom’s forms of relaxation. A walk with him in the woods at this hunting camp became a lesson on nature. He was a very talented wood carver and couldn’t pass a pile of rocks without pocketing at least one. He also enjoyed traveling, driving even as far as Alaska. After several vacation trips throughout the Southwest, Tom, Cheryl and their Pomeranian Tobias enjoyed being “Snowbirds” in Phoenix. Some of Tom’s favorite things to do were going to car shows, antiquing, cheering for Dale Jr. at PIR, and wandering Cave Creek, Ariz.

He is survived by his loving companion of 23 years, Cheryl Rosbeck and his daughter Tonya Paul of Clio, Mich.; son-in-law Daryll Siess of Alpena, Mich.; grandchildren, Courtney and Kellar Paul both of Clio, Mich.; and Elle Siess of Alpena, Mich.

Thomas was preceded in death by his daughter Jamie Siess; and two brothers James and Melvin Piper.

Per Tom’s wishes he has been taken from the Karpus-Hunter Funeral Home for cremation. A private gathering will take place in the summer.

In memory of Tom, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Huron Humane Society.

Online condolences: www.karpushuntercares.com.