Thomas H. Birch

Thomas H. Birch, of Freeland formerly of Essexville, passed away early Sunday morning February 20, 2011 at his residence, age 67. He was born September 10, 1943 in Bay City. Tom graduated from St. James High School and Central Michigan University. For 30 years he was a teacher, first at All Saints Catholic Central and then in Bay City Public Schools. Tom's Warm-hearted and conscientious personality led him to make a true difference to his students. He was a passionate bowler and enjoyed boating and golfing. He was a member of Knight of Columbus Council 414 and a former member of the Essexville Lions Club. On October 5, 1963 Tom married the former Connie Chase and she survives him along with their two children, Michelle (Scott) Smith of Rhode Island and Greg Birch of Bay City; three granddaughters, Emily, Abigail and Lillian Smith; a sister, Mary White of Essexville; three brothers, Paul (Sue) Birch of Bay City, Gary (Phyllis) Birch of Mississippi and Kenneth (Joy) Birch of Louisiana; two sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Beverly Gottschling and Shirley Chase both of Bay City and Ken Chase & his friend Kathy of Florida; and several nieces & nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Harold & Romaine Birch and Grace Beecher; and two brothers-in-law, Gary White and Jack Gottschling. The family would like to thank Tom's hospice staff for the wonderful care they gave him the last few months, especially Donna DeWyse, Maria, Kathy, Stephanie and Pastor Joe. A memorial service will take place at 7:00pm on Friday February 25, 2011 at the Gephart Funeral Home. Officiating will be Pastor Joe Atchinson. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor's favorite charity.