Thomas J. Raabe

Raabe, Thomas J. Born in Milwaukee on March 9, 1928. Tom was peacefully reborn into Eternal life at age 84 on January 13, 2013, where he rejoined his parents, George and Meta, brother, Richard (Lorraine) and many friends. Tom is survived by his wife, Joan, they married on Feb. 14, 1970, with whom during almost 43 years of marriage they shared many wonderful travels, adventures, love of life and each other. Tom is also survived by six children, James (Diane), Bruce (Michelle), Christine (Rick), Brenda (Bruce), Doug, and Timothy (Donna). Already missing grandpa are 18 grandchildren; Ken (Ellen), Katie (Kurt), Jenny (Mike), Ben (Doni), Tim (Jodi), Sarah (Ryan), Elliott (Haley), Phillip, Lucas, Brad, Brian, Becky, Samantha, Sarah, David, Jon, Chris and Joey; 9 great-grandchildren; brothers, William (Shirley), Chuck (the late Ruth) George, Jr. (Lou); sister, Grace (Wes), all of whom will certainly miss his wry sense of humor. Their father, George, was a Milwaukee detective who gave his life in 1937 while on duty. Additional survivors are nieces, nephews and many friends. A proud Army veteran of WWII, Tom thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors which explains his love and enjoyment of hunting, golf and gardening. People skills was a God given talent which provided success during his careers at Holz Motors and Raabe Paint Co. His love and passion for restoring cars and antique furniture and taking the time to do things right flowed to his children. Above all, he had a strong love of God and Jesus. Now he has a new crowd for his jokes. Very special thanks to Dr. Michael Ptacin, for the years of expert care and to the entire loving and skilled Staff on 5C and in the ICU of the Zablocki VA Medical Center. A memorial service, with military honors, will take place on Sat., Jan. 19, at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior to the service, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 202 S. Farmer St., Princeton, WI. If you so desire, in lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established. Please visit our website www.wachholzandsons.com to send condolences to the family. Wachholz and Sons F.H. 920-295-6631