Tom Waalkes was one of the three founders of the firm who left a larger firm in 1983. Their goal: to establish a practice that provides businesses and families with great professional service and cost effective solutions. Tom is the son of a Grand Rapids judge and was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Tom graduated from Calvin College in 1966 and from Wayne State University Law School in 1969. His practice focuses on estate planning and probate administration. His expertise is well recognized in the community, and he has enjoyed working with countless families as they prepare for the future of their family and business. He is the “father” we all look up to in estate planning and probate work.
Tom was a Trust Officer in the Probate Department of Old Kent Bank & Trust Company (now Fifth Third Bank) before entering private practice. For many years he was a part-time instructor in business law at Calvin College and many students fondly remember his classes. He holds memberships in numerous estate planning, planned giving, probate, and trust groups.
Tom has four grown (and married) children and a number of grandchildren. And yes, his son Tim is now at Verspoor Waalkes taking over the role of estate planning, probate administration, and probate litigation (a family business!). Tom is a devoted runner and has even run the Boston Marathon.
Areas of Practice:
Education:
- Calvin College (B.A., 1966)
- Wayne State University School of Law (J.D., 1969)
Bar Admissions:
- Michigan, 1969
- United States District Court, Western District of Michigan, 1969
Memberships:
- State Bar of Michigan
- West Michigan Estate Planning Council