Thomas Karl Knoll

Thomas Karl Knoll, age 83, of Clare, MI passed away on January 15, 2024.  Born March 5, 1940 in Flint, MI Tom was the first of three children to Fred and Irma Knoll. Tom was raised on a farm in Mt. Morris Mi.  In 1970, Tom relocated his family to Harrison MI. Then in 1978 he ventured to Clare, MI where he found the community he was meant to be in.  There he lived the second portion of this life among the Amish where we developed many friendships.

Tom learned at a very young age his love for horses and other livestock. He began riding his first pony at age five and continued to ride until he was 70.  Tom lived his entire life surrounded by farm animals.

Tom was quite the football athlete at Mt. Morris high school. He truly enjoyed reminiscing of his glory days. He was a 4-H volunteer for over ten years while his children participated. His love for livestock landed his job at Clare Stockyards in 1970. He worked every Monday for the next 50 years; Monday was his favorite day of the week. Tom enjoyed horseback riding in northern Michigan; the elk were one of his many favorite sites to see. He showed cattle, would compete in “team penning” events and enjoyed riding horses on his own farm. Later in life, Tom began hauling livestock for this local community. His truck and trailer became a part of him and is what kept him going each and every day. He felt people could depend on him and it gave him a purpose.  His final trucking job was January 1, 2024.

Tom is survived by his three children, Kelly Fanslau, Michelle Coleman (Louis Kurant), Christopher Knoll, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Judy Hicks and Michael Knoll.

Dad, you will be missed.

Please join Tom’s Celebration of Life on January 27, 2024 from 11:00a-1:00p at Yoder’s Farm, 10885 N. Leaton Rd, Clare, MI 48617.  We will share stories, friendships, and lunch.  Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home.  On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com