Thomas Karl "Tom" Van Treese

1947 - 2025

Thomas Karl Van Treese (Tom) passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, following a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving wife, children, grandchildren and other family members. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Tom was born on April 8, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Levin Burdette Van Treese and Eleanor (Schoen) Van Treese. His family later moved to Edina, Minn., and eventually settled in Oshkosh, Wis., where he spent most of his childhood. After high school, Tom served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1972. Following his honorable discharge, he moved to Tallahassee, Fla., where he earned a Bachelors degree from Florida State University.
Throughout his career, Tom managed and owned several businesses in Tallahassee, including Frontier Lumber and Everything Photo & Frame.
Known by many as a "funny guy," Tom had a deep love for people. Beneath his gruff exterior was a big-hearted, playful spirit. He loved his church, growing things in his garden, cooking, camping, fishing, meeting new people and, most of all, fiddling. A longtime member of the old-time music community in Tallahassee, Tom played at festivals, square dances and music events across the country. In May 2025, he proudly placed third in the Florida State Fiddle Contest in the Old-Time Division.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Debbie; and his brother, Phil. He is survived by his wife, best friend and music partner, Kay Van Treese; his daughters, Christina Miner (Rob) and Michelle Maguire; his stepson, Daniel Williams (Courtney); and his grandchildren, Cameron, Jake, Brandon, Dylan, Ryan, Annabell and Brinson. He is also survived by many dear friends who were like family.
Tom was an active member of Waukeenah Methodist Church, where he grew in his faith and knowledge of his Lord Jesus Christ. Those he leaves behind take comfort in the hope of reunion with him someday, when they too cross that river.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, at Waukeenah Methodist Church in Monticello, Fla. Lunch will be provided afterward in the church Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wolf Creek Pet Adoption Center / Jefferson County Humane Society, where Tom volunteered for several years at Wag the Dog Thrift Store – right up until the time of his passing.