Thomas John Kakuk

Thomas John Kakuk, age 86, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away January 16, 2023. Tom was born July 31, 1936, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, to the late Stephen Joseph and Dorothy Julia (Tadych) Kakuk. The family moved to Stephenson, Michigan, when Tom was a child.

Tom attended Michigan State University and earned Bachelor of Science, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees there. He also earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. While at Michigan State, he met Martha Katherine Smith, whom he married on September 7, 1963.

Tom worked professionally for decades as a veterinary pathologist and toxicologist in pharmaceutical research. In his personal life he enjoyed the outdoor pursuits of hunting and fishing. Tom was an avid gardener, and he loved to cook.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and three sisters.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Martha K. Kakuk; son Robert T. (Kathryn) Kakuk; daughters Laura E. (Stephen) Kakuk-Atkins and Jennifer K. (Linda) Kakuk; five brothers; and four sisters.

In accordance with Tom’s wishes, cremation will take place, and he will be laid to rest in Hope Cemetery in Texas Township.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit https://www.langelands.com.