Thomas Carl Diefenthaler, born November 19, 1959 in Jackson, Michigan was called home to heaven on May 2, 2026 where he was finally reunited with his beloved daughter, Lauren Diefenthaler. Thomas passed away surrounded by family, in Stockbridge, Michigan where he attended High School and graduated with the class of 1978.

Tom had a passion for farming and spent much of his life working on the family farm. He also had a long-standing career as a truck driver. He was a man built from equal parts grit and tenderness, and even though life handed him more hardships than most, he met every challenge with humor that didn’t just mask the pain—but softened it for everyone around him.

After decades spent hauling freight, tending fields, and lifting others’ spirits with a well‑timed joke, he has gently parked his rig for the last time.

Tom was a dedicated father, and a loving son and brother. In addition to his daughter, Lauren, he is preceded in death by his father, James Diefenthaler, his partner, Anita Baker, and his brother-in-law, Daniel Dancer. He is survived by his devoted son, Christopher Diefenthaler (Alexandra Diefenthaler), and his doting mother, Alice Diefenthaler. He also leaves behind many adoring siblings—including his brother, Timothy Diefenthaler (Julie Evans), and his three sisters, Linda Dancer, Sandra Risner (Brook Risner), and Debra Diefenthaler.

He lived a life of long roads, open fields, deep love, and laughter that could fill a room. He taught us that humor is a kind of courage, that family is worth everything, and that even the toughest hands can hold the softest hearts.

May his roads be smooth, his fields be endless, and may those he is reunited with hold him close. And may the angels be ready—because he’s surely creating mischief up there already.