Thomas D. Lemke Sr., age 74, of Wautoma, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Thomas was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Duane Lemke and Catherine (Tesch) Lemke, both of whom preceded him in death.
He was the proud father of Tammy (Derek) Funk, with grandchildren James, Ashley Neitzel, Dani, and Dakota Behm; his late son, Tom Lemke Jr., with granddaughter Niyah Plante; Tina (Tad) Masaros, with grandchildren Meadow, Willow, and Gunner; and Travis Lemke, with grandchildren Alex, Austin, Shayla, and Alysha.
Thomas was also blessed with great-grandchildren Khloe, Ryker, Wyatt, and Octavia.
He is further survived by his sisters, Rhonda White (late husband, Don White Sr.), Karen Nack; his brother, Dan Lemke; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Tim Lemke.
Thomas worked as a welder and was a man who always liked to keep his mind and hands busy. He enjoyed the casino and was always thinking of new inventions and ideas.
He was a deeply spiritual man who loved talking about the Bible and Jesus. His faith was an important part of his life and something he carried with him always.
Thomas was also known for his sense of humor and his “dad jokes.” One of his favorites was: “Confucius say: man who sits on hot stove will rise again.”
Above all, Thomas was a fighter right to the very end, which is why the nickname “The Hulk” fit him so well. He will be remembered for his strength, his faith, his humor, his inventive mind, and the love he had for his family.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him.
Celebration of Life will be held December 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Wild Rose Lions Club, 1100 Main Street, Wild Rose, Wisconsin.
The family would like to thank Joe and the staff at Simply Cremation in Green Bay, Wisconsin, for their kindness, care, and assistance with the arrangements.
