Thomas Michael Trefzer

Born on May 15, 1945, in Detroit, Tom lived a life defined by hard work, integrity, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Dorothy, whom he proudly called the "girl next door." Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and countless cherished memories.

He graduated from St. Paul Catholic High School in 1963 before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1967.

Tom was the founder and owner of Safe Flue Chimney & Wildlife Services in Grosse Pointe. For more than 40 years, he built a respected business through honesty, dedication, and exceptional service. His strong work ethic and commitment to doing things the right way earned him the trust and friendship of countless customers throughout the community.

Outside of work, Tom embraced life with enthusiasm. He and Dorothy loved spending time "Up North," where they found peace in Michigan's beautiful outdoors. He enjoyed sporting clays, gardening, reading, tandem bicycle rides, and square dancing with Dorothy. Tom also found great joy in volunteering with the Grosse Pointe South Choir, where he worked behind the scenes to help make each performance a success. Supporting the students and contributing to the choir program was something he genuinely loved, and it reflected his generous spirit and quiet commitment to serving others. During his college years, he earned his private pilot's license and proudly served as a member of the ski patrol, reflecting his adventurous spirit and love of learning new skills.

More than any accomplishment, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, offering advice, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying each other's company, he made every gathering special. His quiet wisdom, steady presence, and gentle sense of humor will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Rita Trefzer.

He leaves behind his loving children: Thomas Trefzer, Jr., Catherine Trefzer, Karen (Martin) Genter, Laurie Murray, Cheryl Shrader, and Kristen (Todd) Ifkovits.

He was the proud and loving grandfather of, Robert Bates, Adam Trefzer, Michael Henson III, Amanda Henson, Martin (Lea) Genter, Joseph (Taylor) Murray, Sean (Alexandra) Murray, Cody Shrader, Amanda (Garrison) Shrader, Lindsey Shrader, Brennan Ifkovits, Kaitlin Ifkovits, and Corbin Ifkovits. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Kayleigh Henson, Michael Henson IV, and Finnegan Shrader.

Tom is also survived by his brothers, Theodore (Nancy) Trefzer, William (Jan) Trefzer, and Ronald (Darlene) Trefzer, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

A Celebration of Tom's Life will be held on August 22, 2026, at 11 am at the War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore Drive, Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan 48236, with a luncheon. Please celebrate Tom by wearing bright colors and sharing memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom's memory to the Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society, 20542 Harper Avenue, Harper Woods, Michigan 48225, or to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1820 Mount Elliott Street, Detroit, Michigan 48207.

Tom will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, loyal friend, hardworking businessman, and a man of quiet strength and unwavering character. His love for his family, his generosity, and the example he set through a life well lived will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever be a blessing to those who knew and loved him.