Obituary of Thomas J Aderhold
Thomas J. Aderhold, or “TJ” as he was affectionately known, was born August 29, 1946, in Greenville, Georgia. He was the youngest of four sons born to the union of Illiff Russell “Smokey” and Jessie Snow (Crain) Aderhold. After moving from Georgia to Michigan at the age of five, TJ was educated in the Detroit Public Schools system attending Western High School.
He was employed as a truck driver for Manion Trucking and later TNT Holland Motor Express for thirty-one years before retiring in 1999. He was a proud member of the Truck Drivers Local Union 299. TJ and his future wife first crossed paths at the tender age of eleven. He eventually married the love of his life, the former Glynda Pulley, on March 31, 1964, in Covington, Kentucky.
TJ would spend most of his summer playing with his grandkids. He was the family barber for his grandsons, and it became a family tradition to shave their heads every summer.
TJ had a great appreciation for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing off his pontoon boat in Lake Erie and the Tennessee River. TJ also cherished time spent hunting deer and small game alongside his hunting buddy, his son in-law, Tony. Tony also accompanied TJ for many rounds of golf and shooting pool. TJ always loved to gather with his friends for a good game of poker. The extended family and TJ’s co-workers joined him for games of baseball and softball. He loved listening to music from the 50’s and 60’s from Motown to Country. He attended dozens of concerts and was blessed to see some of his favorite artists play live including Fats Domino, Tony Orlando and Dawn, Paul Anka, Bob Seger, The Eagles, Chubby Checker, and Elvis.
The Aderhold’s spent many summers and holidays in Tennessee visiting family and traveling to Florida in their RV. A member of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Club, TJ once ventured solo to Tennessee on his bike for a memorable two-week trip. He and Glynda enjoyed the area so much they settled on Beech Creek, Tennessee for several years. TJ loved his wife’s cooking and the pair often volunteered to serve fish frys and breakfast at the local fire department on Beech Creek where TJ volunteered as a firefighter. After his retirement, the couple moved back to Michigan, and purchased a home in Estral Beach. TJ had a huge heart and would do anything for anyone. He could often be seen helping the neighbors mow their lawn. TJ was a happy-go-lucky person with a contagious laugh! He typically could be caught dancing, singing, or whistling a tune. If you knew TJ, you loved him.
Thomas J. “TJ” Aderhold, age 76 of Newport, Michigan passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday; May 5, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents: Illiff and Jessie Aderhold; a daughter: Rachel Aderhold; three brothers: Donald, Russell, and Jimmy Aderhold; two stepsisters: Faye Braden and Judy Aderhold; canine companions: “Bosco” a Jack Russell Terrier and “Blue”, a Mini Sheltie. TJ also had a horse named, “Doc”, which he enjoyed riding.
To cherish his memory he leaves a loving wife: Glynda Aderhold of Estral Beach; four children: Donna Aderhold (Tom Pearson) of Grosse Isle, Michigan; Tina (Tony) St. Andre of Estral Beach, Mark (Lisa) Klaes of Carleton, Michigan, and Michelle Contratto; nine grandchildren: Chase (K’Leigh), Mason (Mandy), Ryan, Tyler (Amanda), Anthony (Christina), Emily (Chris), Zoe, Bryson and Parker; three great grandchildren: Rory, Esme, and Addison; and his fur baby: “Ally”, a miniature Schnauzer.
TJ’s care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. Cremation has taken place through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation, of Erie, Michigan.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.
