With deepest sorrow, we announce that Thomas Joseph Cortiana (Tom), age 49 our most beloved son, brother, dad, family member and friend passed away on Friday, October 2, 2020 while in the hospital. Thomas was born on December 31, 1970 to parents Louis and Joyce Cortiana in Ann Arbor Michigan. He grow up in Ann Arbor, MI, graduating from Pioneer High School (1989), and Ferris State University (1994) in Big Rapids, Michigan with a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. Thomas had a long career in project management and estimating for the construction industry. He was passionate about getting projects done right, without sacrificing compliance or quality.

Thomas is survived by his father, Louis Cortiana, loving sisters Lisa (Thomas), Paula (La Tessa), Annette (Clark), brother in laws Dr. Timothy Thomas, Dr. Thomas Clark and Guy La Tessa, nephew Nicholas Clark, as well as his beloved daughter Ava Marie Cortiana, mother of his child Enoud Ammori, aunts Jean Bensinger (Borsenik) and Diane Rigelmann (Cortiana), along with many cousins. He was also preceded in visiting heaven by his adoring mother Joyce Cortiana and grandparents, Steven and Vera (Vincent) Borsenik, Guido and Maria (Cerundolo) Cortiana, and Uncle Robert Bensinger.

Thomas loved being around his daughter Ava, family and friends, was known for his entertaining long stories, which he loved to repeat often. He always stopped to help or open a door for someone, or simply to make you smile. Thomas was an avid sports lifelong fan, Major League Baseball was in his sole; win or lose Tiger Baseball’s #1 supporter. He loved music, especially his daughter Ava’s guitar playing and singing. Thomas also enjoyed watching and laughing during old western and war movies.

A Celebration of life will be held for Thomas Joseph Cortiana, at Nie Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103. Memorial Gathering: Thursday October 8, 2020 1:00pm-2:00pm and Memorial Service following at 2:00pm. Please Remember to Wear a Mask and Practice Social Distancing. Memorial Service will be outside so please dress accordingly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Detroit Tigers Foundation, an official charity of the Detroit Tigers baseball club and is an affiliate of Ilitch Charities, a 501(c)(3) public charity. The mission of the Foundation is to enhance lives through the game of baseball, with a focus on youth, education and recreation.

To make a tax deductible donation, in memory of Thomas Joseph Cortiana, visit online at:

https://www.mlb.com/tigers/community/donate