Thomas E. “Tommy” Shaffer

Thomas E. “Tommy” Shaffer 

January 30, 1953 – December 28, 2024

VISITATION: Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel.  MEMORIAL SERVICE with Omaha Police Honor Guard:  Friday, January 17th at 10am at Westside Church, 15050 W. Dodge Road.

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Thomas E. “Tommy” Shaffer was called home by Jesus, on Saturday, December 28, 2024.  Tommy was born on January 30, 1953 to Mr. and Mrs. Gene Shaffer of Omaha, NE.   Tommy’s parents combined Irish and Italian heritage, to produce a one of a kind son, who will forever be known for his faith in Jesus Christ.  Tommy retired as a Sergeant from the Omaha Police Department, having served the city for 28 years.  He was also head of security for Horseman’s Park.  He used his electrician, tiling and construction skills along with donating copious amounts time in becoming the fixit man for both his family, friends and neighborhood.

His faith was evident in his marriage, just short of 52 years to Kriss, as his childhood sweetheart, and as a proud father to two sons, whom also serve our country–Tom (Heath) Shaffer as Deputy Chief of Police serving in Omaha, NE and Chad Shaffer, a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force.   Tommy will forever be remembered for his large heart, which resulted in a life of giving, which will be hard to match in both his personal finances and time, and remained generous with this his whole life.  This generosity did not apply to his homemade Italian Christmas cookies, as he counted each one, often up to 1000 cookies, and told the grandkids he knew the exact number should they consider pilfering any from the garage refrigerator.  His Italian dressing recipe was closely guarded and called “Papa Sauce” by the grandkids.

His humor was evident as he could take any mundane event and bring your laughter to tears.  He often mentioned his greatest material was his wife and her family, along with the Italian characters of his heritage.  Tommy understated any sacrifice he made while overstating those of his acquaintances.  A skilled athlete, he used that to coach numerous sports for his sons, culminating in an Iowa state championship in hockey.  He transferred not just his public service and athletic prowess to his sons, but his faith as well.   He often referred to his construction skills as ¼” and caulk, but that did not do service to his willingness to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.

He and Kriss loved to travel and opened up both their own home and any condo they might own at the time to friends and family.  He stayed in contact with all and was the glue to family gatherings.    Faced with the knowledge of his pending mortality, he expressed his love for Kriss and God, saying he could accept whatever God has for him,  wishing only that he could spend more time preparing his wife Kriss for the inevitable.   The personal testimonies of the many people he impacted, from his police work, church, neighbors, coaching, giving, to friends and family whom will forever miss him until reunited on that great day. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matt 25:23a.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Barb Shaffer; mother-in-law, Delores Stokes; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Valerie and Kirk Wiles. He is survived by his wife, Kriss; sisters, Linda (John) Ruma, Julie (Frank) Zitnik; sons, Thomas (Adrienne), Chad (Kindra); grandchildren: Kiley Pulido (Kris), Thomas Shaffer, Peyton Shaffer, Ava Shaffer, Creighton Shaffer, Cortlind Shaffer, Cheyenne Shaffer, Claire Shaffer, Philip Metzger, Regina Metzger and Louis Metzger; and one great-grandchild coming in August.  He is further survived by his two sisters and brothers-in-law, Sandra and Perly Schoville and Denise and Robert Manners. Tommy impacted many family members, represented by the many nieces and nephews who gave loving support and care to both Kris and Tommy during his heroic last few months.