Obituary of Thomas Dulaney Diffendal

Thomas Dulaney Diffendal, age 72 exited stage left on October 3, 2017 after a courageous battle against cancer. Beloved husband and soulmate of Marilyn for over 45 years. Mourned by their feline companions, Shalimar and BeoWulffie. Survived by step-siblings, Margaret Susan (Michael) Benner and William (Sylvia) Gearhart and Sisters-in-law, Bonni (William) Slifer and Barbara Thompson. He was a proud Arapaho descendant. Tom served two tours of Naval duty during the Vietnam conflict aboard the heavy cruiser, USS Newport, CA-148, and was a member of American Legion Post 372 in Grosse Pointe. He retired from a career in logistics at the US Army Tank Automotive Command (TACOM). A true gentleman who lit up a room with his smile and his flair for eclectic attire. He was a past Board member of the historic amateur theater, The Players, in Detroit. A talented actor and equally talented make-up artist. He graced the stage in over 50 performances spanning 25 plus seasons. He was Past Master of Masonic Lodge #6 in Mt. Clemens and a Past Patron of the Order of the Eastern Star. He was also an active, involved member of Detroit Lodge #2 in downtown Detroit. A memorial celebrating his life will be held at the Masonic Temple, 500 Temple Street, Detroit, on Sunday, October 28th at 2 PM. The family has requested that memorial contributions be directed to The Players, 3321 East Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48207