Thomas E. Rosenberg

Thomas Eugene Rosenberg was born on April 15, 1942, in Plainwell, Michigan. He graduated from Plainwell High School in 1960 and married Bonnie Bronkhorst in 1962. Together, they raised two children, Ken and Laura, and built a life filled with family, friendships, hard work, and adventure.

After working several jobs, Tom began a 42-year career as a lineman with Consumers Energy. He took pride in his work and never turned down overtime, especially when storms brought the opportunity. He appreciated what that hard work allowed him to provide for his family. Retirement didn’t keep him idle for long. He joined Zeigler Automotive as a car porter, delivering vehicles and enjoying working alongside his son-in-law, Bob Cline, for 15 years.

Growing up in Plainwell, Tom spent many happy days with family and friends on Pine Lake. His small-town roots stayed with him throughout his life, and familiar faces and longtime friendships were always important to him. As his children grew, he enjoyed watching their sports and spending winters skiing at Timber Ridge, where he also worked alongside friends. Tom loved spending time outdoors at his picnic table, pheasant hunting in Nebraska, and fishing. The family also made many lasting memories during their years “up north” at Burt Lake.

Racing was one of Tom’s great passions. An avid NASCAR fan, he traveled with his son, Ken, to NASCAR tracks across the country. Closer to home, his love of stock car racing brought him to Kalamazoo Speedway week after week, sharing evenings at the track with family and friends over the years.

Tom enjoyed a beer with good company and was always ready to go out for breakfast. He also loved traveling, whether taking a cruise or enjoying timeshare stays in Hawaii, St. Martin, and destinations throughout the United States. He followed his own path, worked hard, and made time for the people and experiences he loved.

In his later years, time with family became his greatest joy. He especially treasured his grandchildren, Luca Romano, Matt Cline, Mary Cline, Derrick Rosenberg-Scholte and his wife, Mackenzie, Jared Rosenberg, and Drew Rosenberg, and his beloved great-grandchildren, Junie and Menno.

His family includes his wife, Bonnie; son, Ken Rosenberg; daughter, Laura, and her husband, Bob Cline; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and the many friends who shared in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother, brothers-in-law, and a niece and nephews.

Cremation has taken place, and a private burial was held at Hillside Cemetery in Plainwell, MI.

A celebration of Tom’s life is planned for October 24, from 3 p.m.- 6 p.m., at the Lynx Golf Club in Otsego, Michigan. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and remember the many good times spent with him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in memory of Thomas E. Rosenberg to Hospice Services of Centrica Care Navigators, 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.