Thomas Wesley Croff

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Thomas Wesley Croff, who left us peacefully on April 27, 2026, at the age of 82. Surrounded by his beloved family at McLaren Hospital, Thomas departed this world in Leavering, Michigan, the place where his remarkable journey began on April 5, 1944. Born to Maynard and Opal (Cousins) Croff, Thomas was the youngest of their children. He grew up in a loving family, sharing his life with his older siblings, Beverly Shull (Croff) and Berry Croff, and later welcoming younger twin brothers, Robert and Richard Hanes, into the fold. He has now joined them in eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience. Thomas was a devoted husband to Esther Croff (Flukes), with whom he shared 54 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their union was blessed with two children, Lisa Gabel, whose fiancé Brian Dailey became a cherished member of the family, and Chad Croff, who, alongside his partner Amy Williams, brought immeasurable joy to Thomas’s life. A proud grandfather, Thomas adored his grandchildren—Dillon, Alivia, Aiden, and Cooper Croff—and eagerly awaited the arrival of a new grandchild whom he sadly did not meet but whose presence already brought him great happiness. His extended family, including several nieces and nephews, will forever cherish the warmth of his love and the strength of his guidance. Thomas's educational journey began at Eastern High School, where he graduated in 1962. He continued his studies at Lansing Community College, demonstrating a commitment to knowledge and personal growth. His life of service was marked by his bravery in the Vietnam War, where he served as a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division from 1968 to 1969, earning two Purple Hearts for his valor and dedication. In his professional life, Thomas was a respected general manager at several restaurants in Saginaw and Lansing. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own a party store, where he became a beloved figure in the community, known for his kindness, hard work, and unwavering integrity. Thomas’s life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and resilience. His gentle spirit and compassionate heart touched the lives of all who knew him. Though he has left this world, his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. A celebration of Thomas's life will be held at a later date to honor and remember the profound impact he had on us all. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to a charity of your choice, in keeping with his generous spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others. Thomas Wesley Croff will be deeply missed, yet his memory will forever illuminate the paths of those he touched. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of those who went before him.