GRANGER — Thomas L. "Tom" Chaffee, 79, of Granger, passed away following a sudden illness at 9:35 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Center for Hospice Care in South Bend.

He was born May 5, 1936, in Elkhart, to the late Robert and Ruth (Signs) Chaffee.

He later married Wanda Gracey in White Pigeon, Mich., on Sept. 20, 1957. She survives him at home after 58 wonderful years together.

Also surviving are his children, Scott (Linda) Chaffee of Granger, Steven (Doris) Chaffee of Youngwood, Pa., and Cinda (James) Hough of Valparaiso; brother David Chaffee of Union, Mich.; sister Karen Chaffee of Livingston, Mont.; grandchildren Ben, Lilly, Rosy, Teddy, Stevie, Ashley, John and Jason; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Tom's life will be celebrated at noon Thursday, Sept. 24, at Grace Bible Church, 1700 Edwardsburg Ave., Elkhart, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. Pastor Mike Fisher will officiate. A private burial service will follow the funeral.

Tom worked for Miles Laboratories of Elkhart (later Bayer) for nearly 50 years, most recently in shipping and receiving. He was a member of the Miles' Quarter Century Club as well as Grace Bible Church, where he served as deacon, usher and custodian. A devout family man, he enjoyed spending time RV camping with Wanda and the children.

Online condolences may reach the family at www.billings funeralhome.com.

Memorial donations can be given to Grace Bible Church.

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