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Thomas Joseph Shedlowsky, lovingly known as TJ, passed away on September 17, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on August 16, 1938, in Pontiac, Michigan, to loving parents Joseph Harold and Tommie Lee Shedlowsky (nee Vickory). TJ graduated from Clarkston High School in 1956 and went on to enjoy a long and accomplished career with General Motors and EDS, where he worked for over 30 years. He began as a test driver at the GM Proving Grounds and later transitioned into a role as a computer programmer.
Music was in TJ's blood. Raised in a musical family, his parents performed in a band, and TJ followed in their footsteps from a young age. He played bass guitar and had a voice that could rival Elvis himself. TJ and his brother Jim as “The Skee Brothers” recorded for Epic and Roulette Records, appearing on Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” and other TV & Radio shows. His musical talent brought joy to countless people, and performing remained a passion throughout his life. TJ married the love of his life Dolores Ann in 1981. Together, they built a beautiful, blended family and shared 44 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and adventure. TJ loved bowling and golf and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially at the family cabins in Ontonagon and Grayling, Michigan. He was also a devoted Detroit sports fan who tried to never miss a game.
TJ is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores Ann Shedlowsky; his children: Susan (Jim) Barber, Robert (Sherry) Shedlowsky, Cindy (Bob) Netschke, Wendy (Carlos) Cruz, Lynda (Scott) Wissner; and his stepchildren: Lisa (Stephen) Glass, Meshele Ellis, Tresa (John) Arwadi, and Traci McMahon. He also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his brother James (Janice) Shedlowsky. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Tommie Lee, and his Grandson, Daniel Wissner.
TJ’s warmth, talent, and humor will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the music he made, the family he loved, and the countless lives he touched. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 2 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. A live stream will be held for the service and can be streamed from Coats Funeral Home on Facebook. Family will receive friends Wednesday 12 PM until time of service and until 8 PM following memorial service.
To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com.
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