Thomas Plimpton

Tom was born in Escanaba, Michigan, the son of Leslie and Cecile (LaChapelle) Plimpton and was raised there through the sixth grade before his family moved to Gwinn. He graduated from Gwinn High School in 1968 and went on to attend Northern Michigan University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Business Administration in 1972.

After college, Tom moved to Detroit and worked for General Motors for five years before embarking on careers that took him to various places across the United States. Eventually, he returned home to Gwinn, where he owned and managed Northern Air Mobile Estates until his retirement in 2020.

Tom will be remembered for his hardworking and ambitious nature, his big heart, and his love for animals and the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards with friends, and spending time at his home on Bass Lake. Known for his kindness to animals, he often carried dog treats for neighborhood pets and was a friend to many local wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and partridge.

He is survived by his siblings, Karen (Tom) Aper of Perkins, Jim (Liz) Plimpton of Sparta, Wisconsin, and Janet (Swen) Aho of Gwinn; nephews, Bob Plimpton, Kyle (Autumn) Aho, and Kevin (Danielle) LeBeouf; nieces, Jody (Ben) Jinkerson, Jamie Plimpton, and Katie (Tyler) Schwartz; sister-in-law, Beverly Plimpton; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bob Plimpton and niece, Heatherlynn Plimpton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UPAWS (Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter) 815 M-553, Gwinn , MI 49841, reflecting Tom’s lifelong love of animals.

Honoring Tom’s request, no public services will be held. The Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com