Thomas G. "Tom" Verburg, age 79 of Morley, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at his home. He was born in Wayne County on April 2, 1941, the son of Cornelius "Bob" and Jean (Boyd) Verburg. Tom was a hard-working man with many talents. He was one of the first line cooks for McDonalds and he worked for Davey Tree Company in Detroit. Tom later began his employment with Nelson Metal Products as a tool and die maker, retiring after 21 years.
He enjoyed putting together puzzles and model trains, boats, and cars. Tom was an excellent woodworker and builder; he made a horseless carriage from scratch, cabinets, and bird feeders. He liked to repair and collect antique tractors. Tom was a member and trustee of the Big Rapids Antique Tractor Club. He also raced motorcycles in scrambles on the drag strip in Detroit. Tom appreciated the outdoors where he could hunt, fish, and camp.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Cheryl Laprise of Morley; five children, James (Tammy) Verburg of Morley, Brenda (Jeff) Benton of Tennessee, Tammy (Preston) Neese of Minnesota, Francis Bentley of Big Rapids, and Chad Bentley of Big Rapids; six grandchildren, Brandy, Jasmine, Chelsea, Rebecca, Chad, and Madalynn; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents and an infant twin brother James Verburg.
The family will greet friends while following the government guidelines, please social distance, wear a mask, and 25 people will be allowed in at a time, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. A private family service will be held. Tom will be laid to rest at Aetna Township Cemetery in Morley.
Please sign the virtual guestbook at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com
Visitation
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home
13985 Northland Drive
Big Rapids,Michigan
49307
Private Family Service
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
1:00 PM
Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home
13985 Northland Drive
Big Rapids,MI
49307