February 7, 2016
REST IN PEACE
Thomas Joseph Kerwin, born July 1, 1924 in Grand Rapids, MI, the only child of L. Gerald Kerwin and Anne Louise Sullivan, died on February 7, 2016.
He is survived by a loving wife, Betty (Stedron) and a devoted daughter, Kateri and son, James. Dear sister in-law Mary Jane Premo and family. Close cousins are Mary Jo Walton, Thomas Sullivan and John Smolenski, preceded in death by cousin Monroe Sullivan III.
Tom was raised in Detroit, MI by a single, working mother and Aunt Jen, aided by "Aunt" Sal Williams. Growing up, Tom developed a lifelong interest in playing and watching sports, especially baseball, football, basketball and hockey. Tom served as a Catholic priest in Detroit from 1949-1969 where he actively worked for justice and peace during the Civil Rights movement. He married Betty Ann Stedron in 1970.
Tom loved learning and earned a Master's degree in Counseling. He offered his unique compassionate and clinical skills through 21 years of preventive and therapeutic services for children and families.
After retirement, Tom and Betty moved to Woodland Park, CO where they were members of Our Lady of the Woods Church. They were active there and with Community Cupboard and Habitat for Humanity. Tom also volunteered with Prospect Homecare Hospice.
After moving to Colorado Springs in 2003, Tom continued to be an active member of the Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission. Using his wonderful voice and speaking skills, Tom taped weekly segments at a local radio station for a show to benefit the blind. For the last several years, Tom was grateful to be a member of a home church community. Tom loved and exemplified the mantra, "My religion is kindness."
Tom's ashes are or will be entrusted back to the Creator of the Universe. A memorial service will be held at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post Sunday March 6, 2016 3:00 pm. 324 Beckers Lane Manitou Springs, CO. 80829.
Tom was a CORPUS member and helped priests find employment in the area.