Thomas Lee Spaak (67) of Grand Rapids, MI passed away peacefully in the early hours of January 9,
2023.
Tom was survived by his wife Nancy Spaak and four children Melissa (Joel) Mitchell, Lindsay (Patrick)
Flynn, Matthew (Liz) Bronkema, Jordan (Amanda) Spaak; nine grandchildren, Jade, Connor, Jack, Claire,
Sam, Max, Ava, Everett, Owen, Maggie; one great-grandchild, Leyla; father Frank Spaak; brother Dan
(Marie) Spaak; and brother in law, Robert VanderMolen. He is preceded in death by his mother Bonny
Spaak, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bob and Marge VanderMolen, and sister-in-law, Debbie
VanderMolen.
Tom, fondly known as "Big Daddy" was born on December 4 th , 1955 to Frank and Bonny Spaak. He was a
graduate of Grand Valley State University. Tom dedicated his career to education with a gift for
supporting and encouraging the children that needed it most. His career began as a special education
teacher at Ken O'Shea. He then spent many years as an educator and administrator for Wyoming Public
Schools where he also met the love of his life and wife of 31 years, Nancy. Tom's commitment to youth
led him to coaching and officiating basketball for many years. His favorite pastimes were spending time
with family and friends. He particularly enjoyed supporting and engaging in his grandchildren's activities,
being on the golf course, on his boat; where relished taking family friends on boating excursions, and
watching sports. He always exemplified the motto, "work hard, play hard". In retirement, he enjoyed
many years in Florida to continue his active lifestyle during the winter months.
Big Daddy was always there to lend an ear and offer sage advice and wisdom over a cocktail. He was a
rare combination of someone who had a love of life and a firm understanding of what was important-
the simplicity of living life with those you love.
Cheers to you Tommy, your light will continue to shine bright through your loved ones.
Our family would like to extend a special thanks to the incredibly caring staff at Faith Hospice- Trillium
Woods.
The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Faith
Hospice- Trillium Woods or reflecting on Toms love of nature, plant a tree in his memory.
The family will be having a private Celebration of Life.