Thomas Cooper Shearer

SHEARER - Thomas Cooper Shearer, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 12, 2010. He was born in Louisville, KY on August 15, 1937. He will be sadly missed by his wife, Grace; his children, Melanie and Tim Hoeksema, and Kirsten and Todd Lowell; stepchildren, John Achterhof, Karen Peasley, and Mike Brooks; grandchildren, Cooper and Braydon Hoeksema and Alex and Jenna Lowell, whom he adored; step grandchildren, Amanda and Tina Meyer; brother, Charles and Susan Shearer: sister, Sally and Clark Smith; sisters-in-law, Ann Buunk and John and Theressa Gootjes, Lois and Dick Defreese and Judy Weeks; as well as many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Greta; and his parents. Tom enjoyed a long and successful legal career. He was a graduate of the University of Michigan, sang in the Glee Club, and was a loyal fan. He served the community as a Grand Rapids Public School Board member and President and a member of the Student Advancement Foundation, a member and Past President of the Grand Rapids Rotary Club, YMCA Board member and President, Bay View Association Board member and President, Clark Retirement Community Board and Foundation, member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association, member of First United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids where he held multiple leadership positions and he also served as Chancellor to the Bishop of the United Methodist Church. All who knew Tom will miss his contagious laugh. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, March 17 at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 227 E. Fulton St., with his pastor the Rev. Gary Haller officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the above listed organizations.