"We were saddened to hear of my cousin Tom's recent passing. My mother Amy Herrmann was Tom's aunt. May your fond memories of your dad and grandfather bring you comfort at this difficult time. Sincerely, Paul Herrmann"
In loving memory of
THOMAS J. CHAPMAN
March 8, 1948 - July 23, 2022
Thomas J. "Tom" Chapman, 75, of Big Bay, passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at U.P. Health System- Marquette.
Tom was born on March 8, 1948 in Marquette, one of four children born to the late Bruce and Evelyn (Valaske) Chapman and was a lifelong area resident. He was a graduate of Bishop Baraga High School. Tom worked as a long term union member (Local 1510 Carpenters & Millwrights), serving his first 20 years as a carpenter and then transitioned to Journeyman Millwright, working at nuclear power plants across the country. He spent his summers sailing on Lake Superior.
His hobbies included sailing, woodworking, playing guitar, specializing in the dobro and slide. He also enjoyed fishing and deer hunting.
Survivors include four children, Bryan Chapman of Big Bay, Leah Thwing of Crown Pont, IN, Christine (Bob) Lafley of Missoula, MT, and William Chapman of Marquette; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; also several nieces and nephews. Preceding Tom in death besides his parents were siblings, Michael Chapman, Katherine Friend, and Patrick Chapman.
A celebration of Tom's life will take place on Saturday, July 30th at 1 p.m. at the Lumberjack Tavern in Big Bay.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Superior Watershed Partnership, 9 Peter White Drive, Marquette, MI 49855 in Tom's memory.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Chapman family where memories of Tom may be shared at canalefuneral.com.
Tributes
"Will miss my adopted Brother immensely. Many great memories were made by us. My best to the family. Tom Hogan"
"It is with much sorrow that I learned of the passing of my dear childhood friend, Tom Chapman. Tom and all his siblings and I became friends when Tom and I were about 5 years old, living on north Front Street, one half block from "Memorial Field". We all shared many adventures in the neighborhood; visiting "polliwog pond", going to Picnic Rocks in the winter, where we were forbidden by our parents to go, climbing trees, acting in plays at the Devonshire stage and skating at the Palestra. I will miss Tom and his guitar playing at the Lumberjack in Big Bay. Unfortunately, due to my case of COVID, I cannot participate in his memorial at the Lumberjack, but I will be thinking about him today. Rest in Peace my Dear Friend."
"Tom: Thank you for all the years of friendship you honored me with. You indeed were one of the good guys - creative, energetic, and open-hearted. I'll long recall the many joyous hours the gang of us spent painting and repairing your late mother's home on Front Street. After we'd laid our paintbrushes down, it was off to Ski-Doo Estates for a kegger and an endless volleyball game with no one keeping score. Good luck and Godspeed to you on this next leg of your adventure. -- Sudsy "
"Tommie/ TC/ Chomper/ Tom. I am so honored to have had you in my life for over 53 years. I loved your stories, your laugh, and the beautiful sounds that came out of your guitars. So happy I got to spend a bit of time with you last August. I never dreamed it would be the last time. The beer stock, Cub Coda and the points t-shirts, and that Ski-doo?s review from fast Eddie you gave me will never be forgotten, and now have tear drops on them. I love you Tom. Say hi to Rob, Keith, Kevin and Kim. Until we meet again. R.I.P. Macko"