Thomas John Gaborik

Thomas John Gaborik of Hartford passed away on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at the young age of 47, at Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Mich., after a hard fought battle with pneumonia.

Thomas was born in St. Joseph, to John and Donna (Riley) Gaborik on Nov. 19, 1974. He resided in Hartford until the age of six, when Thomas moved with his family to Miami where he grew up and attended school, graduating from G. Holmes Braddock Senior High in 1993. He worked for Winn-Dixie stores and Toys R’ Us until he returned to his hometown of Hartford in 1997. Thomas was previously employed at both Hartford and Watervliet Harding’s and A & B Packing Equipment in Lawrence. He was currently employed at Knouse Foods Co-Op in Paw Paw at the time of his passing. Thomas was a 20 year cancer survivor.

Thomas loved to spend time with his family and friends. While he did not have children of his own, he adored his nieces and nephews. Thomas never missed a chance to watch them play football, basketball, baseball, softball or cheerleading. He was truly their biggest fan. Thomas will be fondly remembered by family and friends for his huge heart and loving nature. He was our gentle giant and we will miss him forever.

Thomas is survived by his parents: John and Donna; siblings: Erin (Ernie), Courtney, Billy (Sarah), Steven (Ebony), Brandi and Kevin (Nikki). Beloved nieces and nephews: Cole, Trey, Nick, Chase, Donovan, Drake, Alexis, Daisy, William, Ian, Kolleen, Elijah, Cooper, Ryleigh, Tobias, Jonah, Samuel, Bella and Jackson (Tom’s Jack Jack); and all of his aunts and uncles and several cousins.

Thomas is preceded in death by his grandparents: Thomas and Norine Riley and John and Gloria Gaborik; and his cousin, Colleen Riley.

A celebration of life will be from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, at the Decatur VFW Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.