Obituary for Thomas Wayne Shinaver Sr.

Thomas Wayne Shinaver Sr., age 72, of Ionia passed away June 22, 2024. Born on March 25, 1952, in Lansing, MI, the son of Gerald and Reva (Hoppes) Shinaver. Tom married Sherry Hilliard on November 13, 1970, raising five children together. He worked for many years alongside his father-in-law driving truck across the country and later followed him into underground construction. They both worked for Rothenberger Construction Company for over 30 years, where he earned the nickname ‘Weasel’. He enjoyed working at Rothenberger with his sons and grandson as well. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local 324 Union. Tom was an avid sports fan; he especially loved cheering on the Michigan Wolverines and was excited about the Lions chances of finally getting to a Super Bowl. He was recently following the construction progress of the Gordie Howe Bridge in Detroit and was excited to go see it when it was completed. Tom’s latest project was repairing an old motorcycle and was very excited to go riding again and was days away from getting it on the road.

Surviving is his beloved wife of 53 years, Sherry Shinaver of Ionia; children: Thomas (Angela) Shinaver Jr. of Portland, Edward Shinaver of Ionia, Jamie (Tiffany) Shinaver of Ionia, Dustin (Jessica) Shinaver of Eaton Rapids, Brandi (Eric) Casper of Ionia; siblings: Jerry, Ron (Carol), Jim (Nancy), Judy Clark, Steve (Lisa), Wendy Pohl, Mary (Tom) Dryzga, Pauline Holton, Kathy Mikesell, Joy (Victor) Cardenas; siblings-in-law: Marilyn and Jean Shinaver, Ken Simmons, Rick Hilliard; grandchildren: Brittany, Lance (Kelsey), Austin, Carly, Ethan, Garrett, Ava, Laila, Aurora, Talon, Maia; step-grandchildren: Hannah and Braden Schafer; great-grandchildren: Kellin, Bik, Evelynn, and Gunnar.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law: Richard Hilliard and Velma (John) Pitchford; siblings: Terry, Rosemary, Jayne, Bill, Dan; siblings-in-law: Bill Clark, Don Pohl, Debra Wadkins.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 10-11:00 a.m. The Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge Street, Portland, with Deacon Randy Hodge officiating. Interment will be in Portland Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.