Thomas Dale Briggs

Thomas Dale Briggs, age 70, passed away March 29, 2012 in Kalamazoo. A lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, Tom was born June 27, 1941, in Kalamazoo, the son of the late Ira Dale and Erma Ruth Thompson Briggs. During the Vietnam War he proudly served in the U.S. Navy. At the early age of 12, Tom became interested in machine tools; he attended Kalamazoo Central High School and Ferris Institute. He was employed as a machinist with Claridge Fan for 9 years, The Upjohn Company for 20 years and Wellsaw for 7 years. Tom was an avid model railroad enthusiast and longtime active member of the Mid-Michigan Model Railroad Club, and was affiliated with several other Model Railroad Clubs. He was also a lifetime member of the NRA. Surviving are his brother, Richard Sue Briggs of Paw Paw; a niece, Cynthia Kris Baker and grandniece and grandnephew, Dellaunna Ann Baker and Intabre Dale Baker; and many special friends. In accordance with Tom's wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial service celebrating his life and burial with full military honors in Ft. Custer National Cemetery will be held at a later date to be announced. Memorials in Tom's memory may be directed to the Great Lakes Naval Memorial and Museum, 1346 Bluff, Muskegon, MI 49441. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes. Please visit www.langelands.com for Tom's personal online obituary, guestbook, memories and condolences for the family.