WAKEFIELD, Mich. – Thomas John Saari, 79, of Wakefield, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, after a brief battle with liver cancer.

Tom was born on May 2, 1944, at Divine Infant Hospital in Wakefield, a son of Ernest and Inez (Silvonen) Saari. He attended Wakefield High School until his senior year and then decided to join the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska.

Following his honorable discharge, Tom returned to Michigan for a short while before moving to Colorado, where he started a family and joined the sheet metal union. He became a union journeyman and remained with the union throughout his working career.

Tom moved back to Wakefield eventually, where he remained until he passed, in the house that he grew up in.

After he retired, Tom spent a lot of time woodworking and making furniture, something he was really passionate about and talented.

He was a hard worker with a big heart, who was always willing to help.

Tom is survived by his children, Michael, Brandon, Debbie, Tommi, Angela, Becky and Pam; and two grandchildren, Cameron and Kyle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Gust; and a sister, Charlotte.

Cremation has taken place, and no services will be held.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, assisted the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.