Thomas Edward Dreger

MONONA-Thomas Edward Dreger, age 70, was shot and killed on Friday, Nov. 13, 2015. Tom was born on June 7, 1945, in Madison, the youngest of three children to William and Elizabeth Dreger. He graduated from Verona High School in 1963. He also graduated from Wisconsin School of Electronics. Tom spent his entire life working hands-on jobs such as roofing, siding, and as a mechanic. In his younger years, he raised Siberian Huskies and trained horses. Tom met the love of his life in 1990, Constance "Connie" Van Woelderen (Jensen). They were married on horseback at a California Ranch on June 3, 2002, at sunset. He and Connie have been together for 25 years and married for 13. They spent many happy years traveling, including trips to Hawaii and Spain. Throughout his retirement, Tom kept busy by working on cars, projects around the house, and casino trips. Tom and Connie enjoyed attending country music concerts, dinner shows, and watching the Packers. Tom is survived by his wife, Connie; step-children, Derek Van Woelderen of San Francisco, Calif., and Chandra Kleinsmith of Cottage Grove; grandson, Cody Kleinsmith; in-laws, Russ and Mae Jensen of Madison; and sister in-law, Caryl (Mike) Selchert of Fitchburg. He is further survived by his two children from a previous marriage, Stephanie Smith and Jeffery Dreger of Colorado; seven grandchildren; brother, William; and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Sue Ann. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m., on Friday, Nov. 20, 2015. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 3 p.m., with the Rev. Curt Everson presiding. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420