Thomas Peter Lafave

Thomas Peter Lafave, 83, of Port Charlotte, Florida passed away on May 15, 2017. Lafave is the son of May M. and Joseph Lafave, and was originally born in Detroit, Michigan.

Thomas had a passion for the hospitality industry which he displayed during his time as a business owner. He owned not only one, but he owned two restaurants. For 40 successful years, he was the owner of The Sands, in Livonia, MI., then about 5 years ago, he and his wife, Ann M. Curley-Lafave together opened Curley’s Pub & Grill, in Grass Lake, MI. Thomas spent 83 blessed, and wholesome years on this earth and was able to make many gracious contributions to the communities he was apart of, especially during those 45+ years as a business owner; And even more contributions were made, not just for the communities, but for the nation as a whole, during his time served in the military.

Before getting into the hospitality industry, he bravely served his country as a member of the United States Army. Thomas took many risks and made just as many sacrifices during his time in the military. We will forever be thankful for his courageous and honorable service.  No matter how busy he kept himself with his service and the business’, he made sure to never be too busy for his family.

Thomas had an undeniably, yet incredibly large family; he was 1 of 14 children to be exact and, with 13 brothers and sisters, it would only make sense that, he too, would prefer a large family himself as well. He found great pride in caring and raising his children, as well as his stepchildren, whom he shared with his wife, as well as some from his previous marriages.  He enjoyed his time he spent traveling with his surviving wife, Ann, between their residences here in SW Florida as well as Livonia, MI.

Aside from his wife and other siblings, Thomas is also survived by 7 biological children – LuAnn, Philip, KarenAnn, Janet, Michele, Lynn, Tommy; 7 stepchildren – Denise, Diane, Debbie, Dawn, Kenneth, KarenAnn, Patricia, Diane; their children (his grandchildren).

He is preceded in death by one stepchild, Cherylann, and deceased wife, Donna, and Joan.

 He will truly be missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Our most sincere sympathies are with the family during this difficult time. 

Gallaher American Family Funeral Home is in charge of the local arrangements.
For any further information, please contact:
O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home at (248) 348-1800 regarding his memorial service in July. The date is not yet determined, but will be held at St. Priscilla’s Catholic Church in Livonia, Michigan.

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