Thomas "Tom" A. Warden

Thomas A. “Tom” Warden, 83, of Petoskey, Michigan, and Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025. 

Tom was born on January 31, 1942, in Delray, Michigan, and grew up in Allen Park, where he developed the strong values, work ethic, and love of community that guided his life. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern Michigan University, where he was an active member and later president of the Kappa Phi Alpha fraternity from 1964 to 1965. His leadership, integrity, and easygoing charm made him a natural mentor and friend to many throughout his college years and beyond.

Tom built a successful career in the automotive industry and was the proud former owner of Pat Milliken Ford in Redford, Michigan. A respected figure in the Detroit automotive community, he also served as president of the Detroit Ford Dealer Association. His professionalism and dedication earned him lasting respect among colleagues, employees, and customers alike.

Beyond his career, Tom lived life with great enthusiasm and curiosity. He was a lifelong car, golf, and boating enthusiast who found joy in new experiences and good company. Together with his beloved wife, Marlene, Tom traveled the world, exploring new places, meeting new friends, and collecting memories that enriched their 60 wonderful years of marriage. 

For the past 20 years, Tom and Marlene made their home in the Bay Harbor community of Petoskey, Michigan, where Tom served as former president of the Harborview Ridge Association. He loved the Northern Michigan summers, the company of friends, and the beauty of the water and woods. In recent years, they also enjoyed their time in Naples, Florida, where they built close friendships and cherished the sunshine and golf courses Tom loved so much.

Tom will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and strong sense of leadership. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and his presence brought energy and joy to every gathering.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marlene; nephews John and Mike Schwartz; and niece Karoline Schwartz.

Tom’s love for dogs was a constant throughout his life, and his compassion for animals reflected his caring nature. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the

Michigan Humane Society in his honor:  https://give.michiganhumane.org/page/53915/donate/1

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held in Naples, Florida, in the near future, followed by another gathering in Petoskey, Michigan, during the summer of 2026.

Tom’s life was one of purpose, kindness, and joy. His spirit will live on in the lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he shared with all who knew him.