Thomas Vincent Dutkavich Sr., age 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by his girls in his home in Manistee, Michigan after a long battle of Alzheimer’s. Thomas was born to Joseph and Senia Dutkavich on August 29, 1940 in Manistee, Michigan. Thomas was a proud father, grandfather (Papa), great grandfather, uncle, godfather, brother, and loving husband. Thomas is survived by his daughter Cary (Allan) Johnson of Scottville, MI, son, Thomas (Carla) Dutkavich Jr. of Stevenson, MI, grandchildren, Trista (Scott) Martin, Christopher (Amy) Martin, Heather Barberini, Tyler Martin, James Dutkavch, Thomas Dutkavich III, Callan (Daniella) Johnson, great- grandchildren, Jadynn Martin, Christopher Martin Jr., Emma Martin,, Bella Martin, Alec Martin, Evan Barberini, Cora Barberini, Jasper Martin, Damien Martin William Martin, Odin Dutkavich, great-great grandchildren, Emmerson Martin, Everlyee Martin, along with several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews.

Thomas retired from General Motors of Saginaw as a core processor, inspection department, and general laborer. Thomas was a tank driver for the U.S. Army Corps, receiving many metals before his honorable discharge. He was a graduate of Manistee High School with the class of 1959 and then graduated from Northern Michigan University Trade Center with a degree in Machine Tool Operations.

He had other previous jobs including Saginaw Product Corporation, Hardy Salt Company, Michigan Tool Exello, Saginaw Metal Castings, and enjoyed photography

Thomas loved being with his family surrounding love to each and every one of them, and especially loved his ice cream outings. He loved to fish, hunt, play cards, sing karaoke, dance, being everybody’s designated driver, volunteering, and always being a jokester. Thomas enjoyed all of his friendships he made along the way. Each friend held a special place in his heart.

He was a member of Good Sheperd Lutheran Church, former chaplain of the American Legion Post #10 of Manistee, the former Eagles Lodge of Manistee, Friends of the VFW Walsh Post 4499 of Manistee, Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #1128 of Manistee, and active when he could be with the Manistee Senior Center, active member of the D.A.V. receiving many certificates, along with the Amvets.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years Dianna Lee (Lewis) Dutkavich, daughter Tammy Sue Metiva, his father Joseph Dutkavich, his mother Senia Dutkavich, brother Bob Dutkavich, sister Betty Helminski, brother Edward Stepka, and brother Raymond Stepka.

A very special thank you to his daughter Cary Ann Johnson, granddaughter Trista Marie Martin for fulfilling his wishes of staying in his home and caring for him.

Thank you to family, friends, hospice of Ludington for the help caring for him as well. A special thank you to his niece Mary Jane for support and management of his affairs, to give the family peace of mind.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Manistee with Pastor Richard Blue, officiating. Graveside services will follow at the Wellston Cemetery in Wellston, Michigan, where the members of the Manistee County United Veterans Council, Ritual Squad will give final military honors.

The family will receive friends at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee on Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and at the church on Tuesday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A funeral luncheon will be held at the V.F.W. Hall on 28th. Street in Manistee, Michigan following the graveside services. The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.