Thomas W. Croff

Thomas Wesley Croff, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, at Mclaren Northern Michigan Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born at home in Levering, Michigan, on April 5, 1944. Tom was the son of Maynard and Opal Croff and was preceded in death by his older siblings Beverly Shull, and Barry Croff, as well as his younger twin brothers, Robert and Richard Hanes. 

In 1972, Tom married the love of his life, Esther Croff (Flukes) and spent 54 wonderful years together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and cherished memories. Tom was a proud and loving father to his daughter Lisa Goble, and her fiancé Brian Dailey, along with his son, Chad Croff, and wife Amy. He took immense pride in being a grandfather to his four grandchildren, Dillon, Alivia, Aiden and Cooper Croff, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new grandchild on the way.

After graduating from Eastern High School in 1962, Tom attended Lansing Community College. Tom was drafted into the Vietnam War and proudly served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division from 1968-1969, earning two Purple Hearts for his bravery and sacrifice. In his professional life, Tom was dedicated and respected manager in the restaurant industry in Saginaw and Lansing Michigan. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to become successful party store owner for 20 years. His leadership and dedication expanded beyond his career as he served on the Capital Region Airport Authority Board and the Vanderbilt Community Church Board. In 2019 his commitment to his fellow veterans was exemplified when he raised money to help restore the Vanderbilt Area War Veterans Memorial Park.

A man of diverse interests, Tom was a talented woodworker and a model train enthusiast, he was also an active member of the Capital Area Railroad Society. Tom was always eager to share his knowledge. He was fascinated by technology and genealogy. He loved flying his drone and capturing aerial videos and maintaining his lawn. Together, Tom and Esther explored the continental United States in their RV and sailed the Great Lakes with their sailboat creating lifelong memories together. The couple spent their winters as active members of the Ramblers Rest Resort community in Venice Forida where Tom’s vibrant presence was felt by all.

Tom cherished annual camping trips in Mackinaw City and spent countless hours enjoying the company of his children and grandchildren, whether traveling or watching them participate in sports, 4H, band concerts or other various activities. Family was Tom’s cornerstone, he was deeply involved in organizing family reunions, ensuring that bonds of kinship remain strong. Known for his protective nature. He was a teacher and a mentor. Tom’s outgoing personality ensured that nobody was a stranger. His memory will forever be a guiding light in the hearts of those who loved him.

A service to honor and celebrate Tom’s life will be held on May 16, 2026, at 11:00am at the Vanderbilt Community Church. A Military grave site service will take place immediately following Evergreen Cemetery. A luncheon will be served following the services at the church.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.