Thomas Gordon Schaap, of Sugar Island, MI and Cedar Springs, MI passed away at the age of 72 in Grand Rapids, MI on September 11, 2017. Born November 8, 1944, Tom grew up in Grand Rapids, MI and, later, lived in Rockford before moving to Cedar Springs. In 1969, he married Barbara Bepristis and, together, they had one child, Stephnie. Tom worked for the Kent County Road Commission and, eventually, opened his own sign shop before retiring. Tom was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. His other hobbies included gold prospecting, traveling and visiting with friends and family. Tom's most admirable traits were his dedication, his integrity, his generosity and his sense of humor. He firmly believed that a person should finish what they start, do the right thing no matter who was there to see it, and do anything they could to help others. Tom was always willing to pitch in, in whatever way he could, to help others. He shared his skills and knowledge willingly with anyone who asked, and would stop to help anyone in need. Tom had an amazing sense of humor, and loved jokes (even when they were on him!). His smile and laugh were both genuine and contagious. He loved life, and he loved everyone around him, and it showed in everything he did. Tom is survived by his wife of 48 years, Barbara (Bepristis) Schaap; his daughter, Stephnie Schaap-Jones; two grandchildren, Amethyst and William Schaap-Jones; his brother, Jerry Schaap; his sister, Nancy (Schaap) Metzger; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, William (Bill) Schaap and Helen (Bond) Schaap. Services for Tom will be held at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church in Rockford, MI on Wednesday, September 20, 2017. There will be visitation at 10:00 AM, a funeral mass at 11:00 AM and a luncheon to follow. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, condolences and donations to a family expense fund be sent to Barbara Schaap, 12020 Schaap Woods Dr, Cedar Springs, MI 49319.