Tom Halstead had a remarkable life – remarkable in part because on October 16, 1938, he was born to another name and he didn't become Thomas Joseph Halstead until he was adopted at age 13 by Max and Emma Halstead after years of living with various family members, in juvenile institutions, and foster care placements. He embraced being Tom (or TJ) and flourished in his new community, making lifelong friends, and excelling in East Grand Rapids track and football (so many stories). Anyone who knew him, knew the EGR class of 1957 had a special place in his heart (so many stories).

After graduating from East, Tom spent a year at Olivet college with his high school friend (there were shenanigans), followed by 4 years as a naval psychiatry corpsman where he excelled (there was clarity and direction). He went on to obtain a degree from WMU and marry the love of his life, Barb (d. August 6, 2010). They raised their family in Lansing, MI where he owned a contract cleaning business. He and Barb raised three kids, Scott (Betsy), Brian (Gerlie), and Connie (Dale), and helped/loved 4 grandchildren, Tim (Chelsea), and the triplets (yep), Nathan (Brianna), Zachary, and Jacob. He sold his business in 1986 and left for what would become his favorite place in the world - Camp Henry. A place he loved so much that it took him several tries to finally retire.

The story of the triplets requires its own chapter. Triplets are at least three times the work, and Tom (with Barb) was a guiding and supporting influence from the moment they were born and an unfailing support and advocate as they grew to adulthood, attending sporting events, celebrating milestones, disbursing plentiful advice, council, and wisdom, throwing in some occasional discipline, making walking sticks, going on hikes, telling lots of stories (see above) and being a great listener. "Gramps" was central to their lives, and they were central to his.

But Tom's family was so much bigger than even this. During his time at Camp Henry as Facility Director, he became "dad" to hundreds of campers and dozens of camp staff over the years – especially those who needed extra help and support. A man of faith, he expressed it by caring deeply for his immediate and extended family.

Along the way, he overcame many challenges, but he successfully surmounted them and taught others to live with love and integrity. Sometimes he taught by example. Work hard and find ways to enjoy what you do. Check. Sometimes he taught by counter example. Don't open a live breaker box while standing in 3 feet of water. Check.

It's impossible to fit all the things that made him remarkable in the small space of an obituary, but these words describe some of his special interests: hunting/fishing, all sports (in particular University of Michigan sports), camping, elk in Atlanta, the UP, building/woodworking (the Halstead Wetland Trail), electrical work and plumbing, music, winter in Florida, goulash, grilling, sunsets, sunrises, storms, stars, snakes, alligators, hiking in the woods, agate hunting, reading mystery thrillers, and naps.

His passing leaves a hole in the lives of those who loved him, but his influence will endure and continue to shape the lives of those who called him dad and friend.

A celebration of life is scheduled at Westminster Presbyterian Church (47 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503) on November 12 from 10:00 to 10:45, followed by light refreshments and a time for fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Camp Henry: https://www.camphenry.org/donate .