Thomas Nuss

THOMAS L. NUSS, 56, of Elk Rapids, passed away on May 10, 2010 at his home. Tom was born on March 30, 1954 in Kalkaska, the son of Richard and Mildred (Bair) Nuss. Tom received his Masters in Education from Central Michigan University then went on to teach in the Elk Rapids Schools for 33 years. In addition to his teaching career, he served as treasurer for the Elk Rapids Education Association for over 20 years. Tom retired from teaching in 2009.

Tom was an area referee for boys and girls basketball for 20 years. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan, enjoyed oldies music and loved to spend time with his grandchildren. Tom's quiet ways and dry sense of humor were enjoyed by students, friends and family alike.

On July 15, 1972 in Cadillac, MI., he married Deborah Duncan who survives. Also surviving are two children, Thomas Jr. (Sarah) Nuss of Austin, MN., Kelly (Scott) Brandell of DeWitt, MI., 4 grandchildren, Max and Cal Nuss, Emily and Luke Brandell, his father Richard (Darlene) Nuss of Traverse City, father-in-law Tom Duncan of Traverse City, 2 brothers, Richard (Marilyn) Nuss of Missouri, Jerry Nuss of Florida, a sister Terry (David) Fordon of Hudsonville, MI., and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Mildred and his mother-in-law Ethel Duncan. A memorial service will take place on Sat., May 22, at 11:00 a.m. at the Peterman Auditorium in the Elk Rapids High School. Youth Ministries Director Gary Bekkering will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society- Great Lakes Division, 129 Jefferson S.E., Grand Rapids, MI., 49503. Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign our online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.