In Memory

John (Tom) Hodges

John (Tom) Hodges

John Thomas Hodges. Tom died of natural causes on August 5, 2000 at home in Battle Creek. Tom was a native of Detroit and was raised in Battle Creek. He had also lived in Pontiac, Michigan, and Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After graduating high school, Tom attended Purdue University on a football scholarship until an injury ended his football career. He served in the US Marine Corps, where he played the trumpet. After the service, he attended Michigan State University. While in Florida, Tom ran a boat rental business at the Balmoral Hotel in Miami Beach. From 1968-69 he was a fireman with the Miami Beach Florida Fire Department. After he returned to Battle Creek, he was employed locally as an ironworker through Iron Workers Local 340. A downhill skiing accident in January 2000 left him a paraplegic. Tom was a member of the National Wildlife Association. He enjoyed outdoor activities, boating and athletics. Survivors included his son, David John Snell and a half-brother, Raymond “Buddy” Brown.

Information in 2005 Reunion Booklet provided by Don vonChawes and from the Battle Creek Enquirer August 8, 2000