Tommy Forrest Valentine

Tommy Forrest Valentine of Akron, age 83, passed away at home on September 13, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born September 23, 1941 in Goodrich, the son of the late Forrest and Florence (Craft) Valentine. A proud graduate of Akron High School, Tom began his career at Caro State Hospital before joining Consumer’s Energy as a welder, where he devoted thirty-seven years of service until his retirement in 2003. On July 30, 1959, Tom married the love of his life, Sandra (Peterhans). Together they shared over sixty-six cherished years, raising three children and creating countless memories.

Tom was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ and faithfully served the Village of Akron as a councilman for twenty years. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he never missed an opportunity to cheer on his grandchildren at their sporting events. Remembered for his quick wit, devotion, and generous heart, Tom leaves behind a legacy of love and faith that will be forever cherished by his family and friends.

Tom leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Sandra Valentine; their children, Jeffrey (Lynn) Valentine, James (Lisa) Valentine, and Marla (Chris) Carland; grandchildren, Michael (Jessica) Ruppal, Tommy Ruppal (Heather), Tyson (Carly) Valentine, Cami (Garrett) McNeil, Calie (Mac) Montgomery, Theresa (Blake) Buckmaster, and Barbara (John) Adams; great-grandchildren, Caylyn, Amaia, Briella, Paisley, Briggs, Bronx, McCoy, Moxon, Blakely, Tripp, Trace, Hudson, Eli, Grace, Sawyer, and Nora; sister, MaryAnn (James) Fox; brothers-in-law, Robert Peterhans and Richard Peterhans; sister-in-law, Mari (John) Young; several nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his sisters, Geraldine (Tye) Bonter and Reva (Richard) Samson; sisters-in-law, Joyce Peterhans and Jewell Peterhans.

Tom’s memorial service will be on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Keith Aeder officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to USA Pride Softball or USA Little League, both of Sebewaing.