Thomas F. Schwanz, age 79, of Tomahawk, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, at his home under the care of his family and Aspirus Hospice. Tom was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on June 17, 1945, to the late Elmer and Lois (Dehne) Schwanz. He was married to Dorothy Daanen; she survives.
Tom was a talented carpenter building handcrafted log homes. His desire to help others was demonstrated as he volunteered much of his time after Hurricane Katrina and also with Mexico Outreach, Christian Appalachian Project, Volunteers of America Southeast, and the Healing House in Tomahawk. He loved the outdoors, especially fly fishing for trout in Montana.
Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Schwanz; his sons, Brian Schwanz and Christopher (Lori) Schwanz; his daughter, Traci (Jim) Peter; his grandchildren, Alex Schwanz, Jarod Schwanz, Lukas (Katie) Peter, and Hannah (Theodore) Peterson; his brother, Jerry Schwanz; and his sister-in-law, Mary Schwanz. Tom is further survived by his nieces and nephews, Erik (Penny) Schwanz, Heidi (Marty) Rettler, Jessica (Steve) Mikkelsen and Michael (Pam) Schwanz.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Lois; and his brother, James Schwanz.
Memorial services will be held on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Generations Funeral Home. Pastor Ross Nelson will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m.
Memorials are appreciated to Samaritan’s Purse International Relief. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.