Thomas Richard "Sarge Captain" Yaschen, age 74, passed away on November 15, 2025, in Chesterfield, Michigan. Born on March 17, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas lived a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his values.
A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, Thomas earned the respect and admiration of those he served alongside. Known affectionately as "Sarge Captain," he held both ranks during his military career and was deeply loved by the troops under his command. He was more than a leader—he was a father figure to many. Though the weight of war stayed with him throughout his life, Thomas channeled that burden into acts of kindness and service to others. His enduring love for his country remained steadfast until his final days.
After returning home from the war, Thomas brought his discipline and passion for the land into civilian life. He transformed his property into a garden that stretched the length of the street—a living testament to his deep connection with nature. This love for gardening and beautification extended beyond his home; he founded the Beautification Committee for Chesterfield, driven by a desire to enrich his community through trees and green spaces.
Thomas was a devout Catholic who lived out his faith through action. In his youth, he served as an altar boy and remained a dedicated parishioner at Saint Mary's Queen of Creations in New Baltimore, Michigan. His commitment to doing what was right guided every aspect of his life. He was known for caring for the less fortunate and never hesitated to lend a hand or offer support where it was needed most.
Thomas would dress up as Santa Claus to bring joy to children—a simple but profound example of his generous spirit. Whether feeding squirrels in his yard or teaching others about gardening, hydroplane speed boats and; he left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Thomas died of a heart attack, but he lived every day with purpose and integrity. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember him as an honest, kind, true-hearted man who never stopped trying to make the world a better place.
He is deeply missed by all whose lives he touched—especially those who continue to honor his memory by caring for the animals he loved and nurturing the gardens he once tended with pride.
May Thomas Richard 'Sarge Captain" Yaschen rest in eternal peace. His legacy lives on in every tree planted, every act of kindness extended, and every heart that carries forward his love.
A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, Thomas earned the respect and admiration of those he served alongside. Known affectionately as "Sarge Captain," he held both ranks during his military career and was deeply loved by the troops under his command. He was more than a leader—he was a father figure to many. Though the weight of war stayed with him throughout his life, Thomas channeled that burden into acts of kindness and service to others. His enduring love for his country remained steadfast until his final days.
After returning home from the war, Thomas brought his discipline and passion for the land into civilian life. He transformed his property into a garden that stretched the length of the street—a living testament to his deep connection with nature. This love for gardening and beautification extended beyond his home; he founded the Beautification Committee for Chesterfield, driven by a desire to enrich his community through trees and green spaces.
Thomas was a devout Catholic who lived out his faith through action. In his youth, he served as an altar boy and remained a dedicated parishioner at Saint Mary's Queen of Creations in New Baltimore, Michigan. His commitment to doing what was right guided every aspect of his life. He was known for caring for the less fortunate and never hesitated to lend a hand or offer support where it was needed most.
Thomas would dress up as Santa Claus to bring joy to children—a simple but profound example of his generous spirit. Whether feeding squirrels in his yard or teaching others about gardening, hydroplane speed boats and; he left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Thomas died of a heart attack, but he lived every day with purpose and integrity. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember him as an honest, kind, true-hearted man who never stopped trying to make the world a better place.
He is deeply missed by all whose lives he touched—especially those who continue to honor his memory by caring for the animals he loved and nurturing the gardens he once tended with pride.
May Thomas Richard 'Sarge Captain" Yaschen rest in eternal peace. His legacy lives on in every tree planted, every act of kindness extended, and every heart that carries forward his love.
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