Obituary: Thomas J. Poynter

As received from the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home:

Thomas J. Poynter, 77, of Delaware , passed away at his home on Saturday September 30, 2023.

He was born on April 24, 1946, in Howell, a son of the late James and Aileen (Sullivan) Poynter. He graduated from Hancock High School in 1964. He was a long time business owner of the Delaware Mine. He took pride in showing visitors how Copper mining was done in the Copper Country in earlier days.

He married Lani K. Hendricks on November 7, 1992, in Mohawk

Tom was a member of the Keweenaw County Historical Society and the Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club and many other organizations either formally or informally. He enjoyed sharing his incredible knowledge and stories of the mine as well as his many experiences throughout his life. He had many beloved pets that ranged from Rabbits, Raccoons, Skunks, a Duck and miniature Deer to Dogs. The Skunks, Oreo and Snickers, were well known to around the area and to the visitors to the Mine. They often went to the Bank and any other appointments he had.

In the winter he and Lani lived in Florida and had many good friends. They were very close to their neighbors in Florida and considered them family. He enjoyed his Boats on the Caloosahatchee River near his home. His many boats over the years included an Amphibius Duck, sailboats, steam powered boats, a House Boat and a small gas-powered tugboat.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother Jack Poynter, his Uncle Max and Aunt Dorothy, and many beloved pets over the years.

Surviving are his wife of 33 years, Lani: Son Tom Poynter II, Daughters Laurie (Bob) Sullivan and
Angela Kolarik, Son James (Genna) Vandenabeele Granddaughter Stephanie Poynter, Grandsons Paul Kolarik and Tom Kolarik, Granddaughters Hannah Kolarik and Ivy Vandenabeele, Grandson James Vandenabeele and Great Granddaughter Gia Gendernalik, Sister Sue (Ted) Mitsuno, Sister in-law Cheri (Jack) Poynter and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

An open visitation will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church of the Keweenaw located at 85 6th St, Mohawk, MI 49950 on Saturday October 7th from 10 am to 11 am with a service beginning at 11am.
Memorials in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Copper Country Humane Society, P.O. Box 453, Houghton, MI 49931, in the name of Tom Poynter.

The O’Neil-Dennis Funeral home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements.