Charles Leitzke

Tom (“Tommy” then)was a childhood neighbor and friend. One memory I have is of him practicing the accordion for his weekly lessons. We graduated high school together and were later both in USAR. Tom was always nice. My sympathies to his family.

Tom made a difference for the people of Wisconsin by keeping the food supply safer and healthier for everyone. He did this work cordially as well as capably. He was a pleasure to work with. From Helene Nelson, former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

We pray that as you share memories and hear stories of Tom it brings a smile to your heart. He will be missed. John 16:22

I am saddened by the news of Tom's passing. We worked together for many years at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. He was a pillar of Wisconsin's food safety program, and helped make it one of the best in the nation. He was smart and innovative, and had an extraordinary understanding of the state's dairy and food industries. He was also a great colleague -- helpful, reliable, funny, insightful, willing to go the extra mile, and a joy to work with. He did a lot for the people of Wisconsin, and left a legacy that will endure for many years. - Jim Matson, retired DATCP legal counsel.

During the late 1980's Tom & I shared a small cubicle at our WDATCP work office on Badger Road as food scientists. Over the next 30+ years during our professional & personal lives we experienced ups & downs, good times & bad. More often than not Tom offered good, helpful advice & guidance covering both professional & personal issues. Tom was a strong, effective advocate in creating a safer food system in WI, & indeed throughout USA. Post retirement we shared good times & good memories during coffees & lunches at Tully's, Rosie's, Daisies & his driveway. He will be missed. He was a good friend. Michael Barnett, Retired WDATCP DFS Compliance & Technical Services Section Chief