Thomas Patrick Bobay 77,of Okemos, Michigan was born in Flint on March 29, 1948, and passed peacefully at home on February 9, 2026.
He is survived by the love of his life for 56 years, Jane Weir Bobay; three daughters, Heather Wiseman, Jessica Bobay and Angela Bobay; and three grandchildren, Gwen Nicholson, Kendall Bobay and Grant Wiseman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gertrude Bobay; his brother Joseph Bobay, Jr.; and his beloved cousin, Mable Inman.
He was a faithful and longtime member of the Presbyterian Church of Okemos.
Tom served his country in the Naval Reserves. A lifelong and enthusiastic Wolverine, he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan-Flint. He spent his fall Saturdays cheering on Michigan football and making a pot of soup. He began his career teaching at Flint Northern before pursuing his law degree from Wayne State and practicing personal injury law in Lansing. He was a member and former chairperson of the State Bar of Michigan, Workers' Compensation Law Section and was honored as a Fellow of the Michigan State Bar Foundation.
Tom will be remembered for his dedication to Jane, his family, and pets; his sense of humor and warm smile, his legendary ability to find the best bargains, and his love of planning and executing travel. He had extensive knowledge and enjoyment of movies. War films and Westerns were favorites, although he was often found watching Romance. He was often seen reading, especially about World War II and Churchill. He enjoyed music, especially hymns and '50s songs, and was often heard singing along. He was always willing to cook a favorite meal for his grandchildren and watch movies with them. Time at the Spider Lake cottage, picnics, long walks along Michigan beaches collecting rocks with his niece Nicole, and hunting and fishing with his brother Joe, and nephew Michael were summertime highlights.
He believed in sharing his strength, experience and hope with others in service work. He treasured his time spent with family, longtime friends, the Shawnee Trail Gang, and his church community. In recent years, he was grateful for the compassionate care and companionship of Devon and the dedicated caregivers from Wind Beneath Your Wings—especially Jean, Doreen and Todd—whose kindness enriched his days.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Presbyterian Church of Okemos or the Salvation Army.
A Memorial Service will be held at PCO on March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a celebration of life planned for June.
Updated: March 27, 2026
Curator: Ed Moore