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IRON RIVER — Former Michigan state legislator Tom Casperson died of cancer on Sunday, Nov. 29. The Republican from Escanaba had been diagnosed with Stage Four lung cancer in 2018.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement Monday on the legacy of Casperson, who championed the U.P., especially in natural resources issues, while serving in the state legislature.
“Tom Casperson was an unwavering public servant, who made sure Yoopers always felt like their voices were heard in our state Capitol at every point during the legislative process,” Whitmer began. “While our politics varied, Tom proved that it was still possible to find common ground and work together to do right by the people of Michigan.
“As Senate Democratic Leader, I was proud to work across the aisle with state Senator Casperson to expand health care coverage through the Healthy Michigan plan, which now ensures coverage for more than 800,000 Michiganders across our state. Despite his diagnosis, Tom remained committed to doing the people’s work as he battled this vicious disease. My thoughts are with Tom’s family during this difficult time.”
Whitmer said that after funeral arrangements are announced, she will issue a release to the United States and State of Michigan flags in his honor.
Michigan Republican Party Chairman Laura Cox released a statement on the day of Casperson’s passing.
“I am incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of my friend, Senator Tom Casperson, after his long battle with cancer,” Cox said. “I had the distinct pleasure of serving with him in the legislature, and I was always inspired by his commitment to our shared values and to the people of Michigan.
“Tom Casperson will be remembered for his dedicated service to the Upper Peninsula, and he will stand as an example for future generations of public servants looking to better their communities. On behalf of all Michigan Republicans, I want to send our most heartfelt condolences to Senator Casperson’s family and friends.”
Casperson served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives before being elected to the Senate in 2010, serving from 2011 to 2018. He also campaigned for Michigan’s First Congressional District in 2008 and 2016 but ultimately lost both races.
While in the senate, Casperson chaired the board for Natural Resources and Transportation while he served in the senate.
Casperson’s run in the state legislature ended in 2018 because of term limits. He has been succeeded by Ed McBroom (R).
McBroom was especially touched by Casperson’s passing and issued a statement on Monday.
“Sen. Tom Casperson was a giant in the Upper Peninsula. His passing leaves an unfillable hole in the hearts of those who loved him and in the lives of the people he served for so many years.
“Tom was a brother, a friend, a mentor, a confidant and a partner in both work and fun. He helped me get into professional politics and guided me every step of the way. To say that he meant the world to me would be an understatement.”
Casperson graduated from Escanaba Senior High School in 1977. He worked in his family’s log trucking business, Casperson and Son Trucking, for 25 years, and owned the business for 10 years. He was married to Diane Casperson and the family has four children.