Thomas Jon “TJ” Tuinstra, age 82, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025.
He was born to Jon Tuinstra & Catherine Hage on July 22, 1943, at St. Mary Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan and was proud to be of Dutch ancestry.
After his formative education, TJ enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served from 1963-1968 as an Aeromed Specialist, flying in medivac helicopters during the Vietnam War. When asked what his experience was, he always replied that he went to Vietnam to play baseball.
After his service, he enrolled at Aquinas College, graduating in 1975 with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration.
TJ became passionate about acting and had a penchant for the dramatic. As a young man, he relocated to the Baltimore area becoming involved in many local theater troupes and starring in several performances.
TJ married Sharon Beaulieu in 1987 while performing in the Baltimore theater scene. His daughter Jessica has always been the light of his life and in his words, “The apple of my eye” with a grin to prove it.
He relocated to the Chambersburg area in the late 1990’s becoming a truck driver and taking his pride and joy, Jessica, with him on adventures whenever he could.
TJ was the greatest Michigan Wolverines Football fan, coaching the team every Saturday by scolding the radio or television. He followed the Detroit Tigers and collected diamond dirt from the old Tiger Stadium.
He was known for the “Worlds Best” Maryland style crab cakes which he made and sold as a hobby business. Jessica was always helping him make and sell them at local events and markets, teaching her the cherished recipe.
TJ could tell a tale. His ability to share all of his experiences in the most dramatic way, is unmatched. Quick witted and filter free, any conversation was quite the story where he was the star of the show. In this fashion, TJ made friends everywhere and anywhere with all who listened and appreciated his talent as an entertainer.
He would take Jessica fishing often and introduced her to golf. He encouraged his daughter to pursue golf and spent time together casting lines and putting greens.
TJ is survived by his daughter, Jessica Friese of Chambersburg; granddaughters Braelyn Posey and Lilyan Friese. Sisters Virginia “Ginger” Sisson, husband Jerry (d.) of Kansas City, Missouri and Susan Pelak, husband Bill of Rockford, Michigan. Also surviving are nephews, Christopher Sisson, John Paul Sisson & Wynn Pelak. Nieces, Jennifer Gilman, Celeste Sisson & Megan Pelak-Williams.
TJ was a born again Christian of Life Point Church, Chambersburg, and encouraged anyone to seek the Glory of God & Salvation of Christ. He read the Bible daily, celebrated teaching and passing along his passion for salvation.
TJ passed at home into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus where he can tell his stories, swing a club and share his crab cakes wearing a Michigan jersey with all who share eternity in the presence of God in Heaven.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Life Point Church of Chambersburg in his memory.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Life Point Church, date and time to be determined.
Online condolences may be expressed at the funeral home’s website.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Thomas Jon Tuinstra please visit the Sympathy Store.
