Thomas J. Schanhals

March 31, 1942 - July 17, 2021

Thomas J Schanhals 79 of Clare, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on July 17, 2021. Tom received Christ as his Savior in July of 2008. He was born to William and Carmen (Schlichter) Schanhals March 31,1942. Tom joined the USCG after high school and while serving, he popped the question to his high school sweetheart, she said yes. Shortly after his arrival back in Harrison, he married Pamela J Huston, on October 19, 1963. Tom operated sonar equipment on the USCG Cutter Cactus and after serving his country he came home to Harrison and took over his father in-law’s US Mail Route. As a mail contractor, he delivered bulk mail to and from Farwell, Lake, and Lk. George Post Offices for almost 40 years. Once, shortly after a severe blizzard, he delivered the priority and first class mail to each post office on a snowmobile. Throughout the years in Harrison Tom used his gifts, talents, and knowledge from his time in the Coast Guard, to own and operate several different businesses. He owned and operated the Harrison Trading Post where he sold and serviced Harley Davidson, AMF, Skiroule, Homelite, and more. For many years he owned a television and radio repair shop in Harrison which sat across the street from Doc Weitzel’s old office, selling new and used televisions, radios, and installing and repairing exterior antennas. After selling the businesses in town, Tom ran his television and radio repair shop from home. During those years he drove truck for TOTAL Petroleum and sold Heavy equipment before retiring. Tom enjoyed listening to Ernie Harwell call the Tigers games on the Radio. He loved aviation, and was a pilot. He enjoyed reading WWII history stories, aviation stories, and any book about trains. Tom loved all of his grandchildren very much and enjoyed the moments he had with them. Tom and his friend Bonnie spent many hours doing volunteer work for the Coleman and Midland Senior Centers and with the Senior Meals on Wheels Programs. Tom is survived by his children; Sue Pycek of Jackson, Ted (Jody) Schanhals of Harvey, ND., Lee (Char) of TN., Heidi Langley-Schanhals of Clare, eight grandchildren; Chelsea (Bryan) Hyatt, TJ (Haley) Schanhals, Dustin (Kaitlyn) Schanhals, Isaac, Sam, Isabelle, Seth and Kiri. One great grandchild on the way! Tom is also survived by his good friend Bonnie Ranck of Midland. Preceding Tom in death is Pam, who preceded him in death July of 2008. Also preceding him were their twin boys, and Tom's two brothers, Curt and Ward Schanhals. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at the Clare Assembly of God Church, 3557 E. Colonville Rd., Clare, Michigan, at 12 Noon. Friends may meet with his family at the church from 11 AM until Noon. Memorials may be directed to the Clare Depot Restoration Project, c/o City of Clare Depot Restoration Project, 202 W. Fifth St., Clare, Mi., 48617. Arrangements were by the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Homes.