Thomas F. Rice

Thomas (Tom) Frederick Rice, unexpectedly passed away on February 1, 2019. Born in Detroit, Michigan on October 6, 1951; son of Frederick and Angalee (nee Webb) Rice. He was united in marriage to Rita C. McGuire on March 25, 1977; devoted to each other for more than 41 years.

Tom owned and operated The Gitfiddler Music Store in Northville from 1973-1996. He then began a career as a Commercial Real Estate Broker. He enjoyed golfing, camping, and being outdoors. His motto was Ready, Shoot, Aim. Tom was an incredible bowler and a true adventurer. When he had a dream, there was no one that could stop him from bringing that dream into reality. Tom will be remembered for having the biggest heart and giving love to all. Tom was a God-loving, guitar-picking eternal optimist.  Tom loved music and believed it healed our souls. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Rita McGuire Rice; his sons, Justin (Jennifer) Rice, Brian (Angela) Clark, Danny (Amity) Rice, Scott (Angelica) Rice and Timmy (Bree Vossen) Rice; his 9 grandchildren, Felicity, Owen, Rayella, Declan, Calahan, Torin, Keegan, Arlo and Juniper; and his sisters, Susan Cyrulnik and Karen (Gus) Kanakis. He is also survived by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Donna Broughton and Cheryl Rice; his nephew Shawn Jarski; his father-in-law John McGuire; his mother-in-law Elise “Pat” McGuire; his niece Megan Laskey; and his brothers-in-law, Paul McGuire, James Lawson, Jim Lulfs, and Carlos Pena.

The visitation will be held Thursday, February 7, 2019 from 2pm until 8pm with a scripture and sharing service at 7pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville, MI 48167. A funeral mass will be held Friday, February 8, 2019 at 11:30am, instate at 10:30am at St. Mary, 1955 E. Commerce, Milford, MI 48381.

For memorial contributions a GoFundMe account has been made in honor of “Tom Rice the Music Man’s Legacy” . The money will be donated to some sort of musical charity. Charity will be local and will absolutely be music-oriented. Details to follow. Or donations can be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen , PO Box 772091, Detroit, MI 48277-2091.