Robert Thomas Cherry

Robert Thomas “Tom” Cherry, 78, of Addison, Michigan passed away on September 4, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio at MetroHealth Hospital. His loving wife Pam, daughters Jill and Maureen, and grandson Gavin held him during his last breaths.

Tom was born in Addison, Michigan to Robert Stephen and Doris Eileen (Johnston) Cherry on October 6, 1945. A 1963 graduate of Addison High School, Tom promptly enlisted in the US Navy in July of 1963, serving until September 1966. Initially stationed in Patuxent River, Maryland he later deployed aboard the USS Boxer where he was a Petty Officer, 3rd Class, Lithographer during the Vietnam War. Tom crossed the Equator in January of 1966, becoming a “Shellback”.

Upon Honorable Discharge from the Navy, he began working as a typesetter, first for Swenk Tuttle Press in Jackson and Adrian, and later at the Adrian Daily Telegram newspaper office. It was there where he met his beloved wife, Pamela. Tom and Pam became engaged 5 weeks after their first date, and on May 20, 2024 the couple celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary. Best friends and partners in life, together the pair would grow their family to include three children. 

Tom’s passion in law enforcement began in July 1972 with the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Department. He began as a Deputy and worked in several areas throughout his years of service including Animal Control, Jail and Booking, Road Patrol, SWAT, and Accident Investigation. Tom was a decorated Master Marksman who used his skillset to instruct other officers at the range to help them qualify. In 1985, he was awarded a Medal of Valor for disarming a mentally ill subject. He retired in July 2003 as a Corporal having served 31 years, 1 week, 2 days.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela Jill (Streby) Cherry, children Daniel Curtis (Marie) Cherry of Sturgis, Jill Ann (Scott) Myers of Addison, and Maureen Nicole (James “Chris”) Morehouse of Jackson; grandchildren Faith Cherry; Gavin Cornett; Athena, Elliana “Ella”, Evalynn “Evy” Morehouse and Grant Schwab; sister Susan (Ed) Gray. He also regarded Melissa (Shortt) Kent, affectionately known as “Missy”, as a daughter. Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Stephen Cherry.

Cremation has taken place. The family will honor Tom in a private service.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.