Date of Death: September 12, 2023
Service Details
Private family burial will be held at Poe’s Cemetery in Newberg Township.
Obituary Notice
Thomas Carl Sayer, 86, of Three Rivers, passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at home comforted by his loving family.
He was born May 17, 1937 in Cassopolis, the son of Dorwin D. and Muriel L. (Chappell) Sayer, and graduated from Dowagiac High School with the Class of 1956.
Tom served his country in the United States Army from 1956-1960, attaining the rank of Specialist. He was in the 246th Tank Division in Dowagiac, U.S. Army – 10th Division in Germany, and 2nd Division – Infantry Division, Military Police.
After training through the Kalamazoo Police Department, Northwestern University, and Kalamazoo Valley Community College, he was a dedicated public servant for the city of Kalamazoo as a police officer from 1962 until his retirement in 1984, and cross-trained as a fireman.
He was a member of First Baptist Church of Newberg, the Kalamazoo F.O.P. Lodge #98, and the American Legion (National HQ).
Tom enjoyed hunting, fishing, helping friends and family with home projects, and most of all, spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Remaining to cherish his memory are four daughters, Linda (Randy) Felter, Peggy Biland, Evelyn Vestal, and Elizabeth (Libby) Sayer; two sons, Dorwin T. Sayer and Thomas D. Sayer; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Ellen Sheteron.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth (Liz) Sayer; son, Ted Yakes; parents; and sister, Kathryn Green.
Additional Information
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Tom was such a kind, giving, & caring Man.
Dedicating his life to loving his family, serving the city
of Kalamazoo, & his Country. I will forever hold
close the memories of our years together.
My Sympathy, love, & prayers to the family.
You have always been my hero Dad! I can’t thank you enough for all the love, knowledge, and support you’ve shared with us kids, Grandkids, and adopted family. God will enjoy having you in his Kingdom as much as we enjoyed you in our lives. I am comforted knowing you, Liz and Peewee will be watching over all of us. Rest in Peace Dad.
My condolences and prayers for his family.
Sonia Antonides
Much love Pops.
Rest in peace Dad. Xoxo