Thomas "Big Man" Schaaf

THOMAS J. SCHAAF

Saginaw Twp., Michigan

Tom "Big Man" Schaaf passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the age of 63 years. Thomas Joseph Schaaf was born on September 11, 1962, in Hancock, Michigan. Tom is survived by his brothers, Gerry Schaaf and Larry Schaaf and his wife Dana; Sister-in-law, Cheryl Schaaf; his nieces and nephews, Mandy Schaaf and their partner Corbett, Amy Bishop, Sarah (Bishop) Charbonneau and her wife Nikki, Hope (Bishop) Pierce and her husband Anthony, Ryan Bishop, Chad Bishop and his wife Sabrina, Jeremy Ross and his wife Courtney, Kristen Ross, Adam Schaaf and his wife Alyssa, Michael Schaaf and his wife Casey, Allison Schaaf and her partner Erik.

Tom was predeceased by his father, Ronald Schaaf Sr., his mother, Marilyn Schaaf, his sister Patti (Schaaf) Bishop, his brothers, Bob and Ron Schaaf, his niece, Jessica Bishop and his nephew, Tony Ross.

Tom spent most of his life working as a bouncer in Old Town Saginaw. He touched the lives of many with his kindness and strength, always looking out for others and making sure everyone felt safe. In his later years, he found a home at a little place called The Big Ugly Fish, where he became a familiar and beloved face to so many in the community.

In accordance with Tom's wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends are welcome to visit with the family for a memorial gathering for "Big Man" at the Wakeman Funeral Home, Inc. 1218 N. Michigan Ave., Saginaw, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m. The gathering will then move to the Big Ugly Fish Tavern 1418 State St., Saginaw, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. to share more stories of Tom. The family requests that you also share your memories and sympathies of Tom on his memorial website at WakemanFuneralHome.com