Thomas R. Bambas, 85, met Jesus Christ his Savior face to face on August 15, 2023. Tom spent his whole life listening to the prompts that still small voice spoke in his ear. He was obedient to the Lord's guidance as much as any mere human can be.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis L. and Maraine (Haythorn) Bambas, sister Karen Gorman and friends Chuck Richter, Jim Corless, and Vitold Kobitz. He is survived by his wife Jody, his sister Jeanne Nelson, his children Sandra (Tom) Robert, Wendy Ryan (Matt) Fahoome, Sasha Bambas, Jamie (DuWayne) Johnson, Melissa Taylor, and Joshua (Darcy) Taylor; eleven Grandchildren; and thirteen Great-Grandchildren, also special friends, Dean Spencer, Ron Foltz, and Tom Anderman.

Tom grew up with something commonly known as dyslexia today. It wasn't recognized in his youth. Instead, he was told by teachers he was never going to amount to anything, and at times his own parents didn't understand why he couldn't seem to focus on studies. With God's divine intervention, he went on to become exactly who he was meant to be. He survived high school, Ferris Institute (1960), and Cranbrook Academy of Art with a BFA and MFA. He taught Metalsmithing and design at Interlochen MI, Wichita Kansas, and finally thirty years at CMU, Mt Pleasant MI. During all that time, he not only taught students, but listened to them. Many became friends, some became family.

Tom never sought out honor or recognition. He was fairly quiet about his accomplishments. He built his own home from lumber on his property, his artwork was published in "The Container" book and received an award from the University of Rochester. He made Several church communion sets, as well as titanium punch bowls and so much more that can't be listed here.

Most of all, Tom loved God's creation. He never lost the amazement of seeing a tiny blue Aster growing, the Eagle wading in our lake, or the agate just waiting to be found on Lake Superior. This world that holds unseen treasure by most, was Tom's joy. Each day brought a new adventure, even when he was locked in bed, only able to look out the window.

Professor Bambas you will be missed. I don't know if the streets paved with gold you are walking on right now will be your next project or not. Oh, and don't try picking the stones out of the pearly gates either.

A celebration of Tom's life will take place on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Manistee, at 11:30 a.m. with Reverend Rex Benfield officiating. Tom's family will receive friends at the church, one hour prior to his celebration of life. A funeral luncheon for family and friends will follow, in the church's fellowship hall.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.