Thomas R Schmidt
July 26, 1943 - June 07, 2026
Obituary
FITCHBURG / MIDDLETON - Thomas R. Schmidt passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on July 26, 1943, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, he was the son of Arnold and Alice (Horsens) Schmidt.
Tom married the love of his life, Dianne (Pommier), beginning a marriage that would span nearly six decades and serve as the foundation of a close-knit and loving family. Together, they raised three sons - Craig, Doug, and Jeff-who were a constant source of pride.
Family was at the heart of Tom's life, and nothing brought him greater happiness than being a grandfather. He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren-Mackenzie and Courtney, Taylor and Cayleigh, and Jonah and Skylar-whether cheering them on at sporting events or celebrating their educational milestones.
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Tom earned his CPA designation in 1970. He built a successful and respected career working for Ray-O-Vac, Ohio Medical, Hy-Cite Corporation and Widen Enterprises.
He was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Four Lakes Yacht Club, where he enjoyed fellowship, camaraderie, and the company of good friends. Among the organizations that held a special place in Tom's life was the Children's Dyslexia Center of Madison. He valued the mission of the center and appreciated the difference it made in the lives of children facing learning challenges.
Known for his quick wit and playful nature, Tom brought laughter wherever he went. His humorous alter ego, "Freddy Thudpucker," became legendary among family and friends, reflecting his love of fun and good-natured mischief. He enjoyed playing euchre and cribbage, listening to polka music, and even playing his own "polka cello."
A loyal fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers football, Tom rarely missed an opportunity to wager a six-pack of beer on the game. He also had a deep appreciation for classic cars, especially his cherished 1964 Pontiac Bonneville and 2006 Mustang GT convertible. Above all else, Tom will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and cherished memories.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Dianne; his sons Craig (Julie), Doug (Charlene) and Jeff (Colleen); his beloved grandchildren; sister, Julie (Richard) Thomson; nephew, Paul (Leah) Thomson; and niece, Janet (Michael) VerBoort. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2015 Parmenter St., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, with Father Michael Wanta presiding. Family and friends who wish to view the Mass via LIVESTREAM may visit Tom's obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at the time of the Mass and click on "Watch Now" in the Webcast section. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, and also at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your favorite charity in Tom's honor. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Fitchburg
Funeral & Cremation Care
2950 Chapel Valley Road
(608) 442-5002