Thomas J. Schaefer

Thomas James Schaefer, age 73 of Appleton, WI, peacefully passed away to eternal life on September 14th, 2026 at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Neenah after a decade-long battle with chronic illness. He took his final breath while being surrounded by his loving family.

Thomas was born on August 24, 1953 in Oconto, WI to Walter Schaefer and Eunice (Noack) Schaefer. Tom valued family and the longevity of close childhood friendships while growing up in Green Bay, WI. Tom was an exceptional athlete and continued to enjoy sports throughout his life. He often referred to how special it was to grow up near Lambeau Field as a child, competing in games of basketball and baseball with lifelong friends, John and Jim.

Tom met the love of his life, Dianne McDonald while working at Montgomery Ward, Green Bay. During his marriage with Dianne, he dedicated his life to his family by providing for her and their three daughters. Tom worked a nearly 40-year career at Presto Products Company in cast-line, located in Appleton, WI. He enjoyed the company picnics, bowling events, sporting leagues, and keeping in touch with many co-workers who shared the same career. Presto Products was an advocate for Make-A-Wish, a charity that was close to his heart and family.

Tom was a member at Eternal Love Lutheran Church. He was baptized into the body of Christ in the Lutheran faith. He enjoyed the welcoming people, pastors, and services at his church. He was grateful for the peace he felt there among his congregation. Tom cherished his beautiful and loving wife, Dianne and he enjoyed taking her out to eat at local supper clubs. After losing her in 2012, Tom chose to retire from Presto Products. His own health challenges began to surface, but Tom’s true nature and giving spirit endured. He was a hero to his children and grandchildren. He was a loving example, suffering selflessly for those he loved. A purpose he lived for many months after exceeding his life expectancy was to ensure justice for his daughter and grandson facing trial. Some of Tom’s greatest joys were taking his grandkids to Bay Beach, fishing, shopping sprees, dance recitals, athletic events, WIR races, and treating them to JD’s. Tom also enjoyed time spent with family at gatherings, holidays, and other special events. If you invited him, Tom would be there. He looked forward to the weekly phone calls with his sisters, Debbie and Terrie. He also looked forward to yearly visits with his brother, Walter from California, who brought Tom hats to match every outfit. Tom was a loving Godfather to his nephew, Briant Bierhals, and he valued the relationship deeply. He enjoyed time with his good friends who kept him young, and phone conversations with many. He enjoyed volunteering at the (KRA) Kimberly Rec Association by working concessions as chief grill master for local baseball and golf outings. The weekly breakfast club with the KRA friends was especially enjoyed. He also volunteered for ThedaClark hospital, comforting patients and families struggling through health crisis. Tom dedicated his time working at Irish Waters Golf Club in Freedom, WI and Bergstrom Automotive, delivering cars across Wisconsin. Tom was always willing to help out and was always on time.

He was greeted to his heavenly home, preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Dianne Schaefer; his granddaughter, Dahlia Chapin; his parents, Walter and Eunice Schaefer; his maternal grandparents, Fred and Ruth Noack; his paternal grandparents, John and Mary Schaefer; his nephew, Brian Schaefer; his sister-in-law, Charlotte Schaefer; his brothers-in-law, Gary Alberts and Rick McDonald; his parents-in-law, Wally and Delilah (Vollmer) McDonald; his friends, Steve McCormick, Stanley Cook, and Kevin Kempen; and his dog, Noah.

Thomas is survived by his daughters, Erika Schaefer and former son-in-law, Bryan Zilisch, Erin Chapin, and Ashley (Shaun) Donohue; his grandchildren, Paul Chapin, Ariel Chapin, Savannah Donohue, Shaylene Donohue, and Michael Donohue; his siblings, Walter Jr. (Della) Schaefer, Doug Schaefer, Sandra (Hank) Wuest, Debbie (Jeff) Johnson, and Terrie (David) Sims; his nieces and nephews, David Schaefer, Stephanie Morocco, Shawn Schaefer, Tamara Suarez, Jerad Rohe, Justin Rohe, Briant Bierhals, and Amber Mott; his in-laws, Mike and Cindy Gillis, Lori and David Hamberger, Kevin and Linda McDonald, Michelle and Todd Cullen, and Raylene McDonald.

A memorial visitation will be held for Tom from 10 AM – 12 PM on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Eternal Love Lutheran Church, 1011 E. Midway Rd. Appleton, WI 54915 with Rev. Dave Backus officiating the service at 12 PM. Tom will be laid to rest with his wife at Community Lutheran Cemetery in Freedom, WI. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for Tom.

Thanks to the church, pastor, funeral home, and volunteers for helping him greatly. Tom wanted to thank all of the nurses and his medical care team, especially Linda and Kate at ThedaCare Oncology for their outstanding service. Thanks to all for the prayers, support, friendship, and care during this time. He wanted to thank his daughter Erika, for being by his side for a decade-long medical journey. Thank you to Eric for providing care and assistance in his last year of life. In that last year of care, Tom enjoyed the view of nature along with the comforts of being with family. Tom was a good friend to many and he was so grateful to enjoy his life with you.