MILWAUKEE - Dr. Thomas M. Joynt, beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Nov. 11, 2021, in Mequon, Wis., at the age of 79. He was born to Donald and Mary Joynt in Sioux City, Iowa, and grew up in Madison, Wis. He attended Edgewood High School and UW-Madison, where he met and married Kathleen Gallagher, his wife of 49 years.

A lifelong advocate for children and education, Thomas was a teacher and school administrator before becoming a district administrator in Pulaski, Menomonee Falls, and Green Bay, Wis. His favorite part of this work was interacting with students and teachers. After retiring, Thomas taught administrative leadership courses at UW-Milwaukee, supporting and mentoring many future school and district leaders.

Thomas's favorite roles, however, were those of Dad and Grandpa, and in these positions, he had no equal. He loved to play basketball ("Docball" to those who participated), pop up, backyard football, and Hearts with his sons and their friends. He also coached a number of their sports teams, where the focus was always on learning the sport, participating, and having fun. Thomas was an avid carpenter and built decks, furniture, and eventually toys for his grandchildren. As Grandpa, he also wrote stories for them, incorporating the grandkids as animal characters in the tales, and enjoyed taking them for walks and coffee breaks. The most important part of Thomas's life was family, and he lived that belief each and every day.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Kathleen; their sons, Matthew (Heidi), Michael (Tracy), Nathan (Jaime), and Timothy (Jamie); their grandchildren, Brennan, Calvin, Declan Thomas, Jack Thomas, Max, Patrick, Sidney, Lewis Thomas, William Thomas, and Lydia; his brothers, Patrick (Unni) and Daniel; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sisters, Mary (Conway) and Donna (Vachon).

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Froedtert Hospital and Lawlis Family Hospice for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, please take time to thank a teacher who has had a positive effect on your life.

A celebration of Thomas's life will take place on Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Watermark at Shully's (146 Green Bay Road, Thiensville, WI). The family will greet friends at 10 a.m. and the service will begin at 12 p.m., with a reception to follow.

Feerick Funeral Home

2025 East Capitol Drive, Shorewood

(414) 962-8383 - Feerickfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Madison.com on Nov. 14, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Joynt

Sponsored by Feerick Funeral Home - Shorewood.

44 Entries

Helen & Richard Schaal

December 5, 2021

Dear Kathleen, Matt, Mike, Nathan, and Tim, Dick and I were planning to drive down this morning to attend the celebration of Tom's life, but we already, at 7:00 AM, have quite a bit of snow with more on the way. We both enjoyed working with Tom so much! Dick, as a principal and me through union work. We worked hard, (planning and building Red Smith), had fun, (crowning Tom Mr. Charisma) and most of all, I believe we made a difference for kids and teachers. Our hearts go out to you all. Know that today we will be there with you in spirit.

Jay Voss

December 2, 2021

Tom and I were very good friends back in our days spent at the UW. He was responsible for encouraging me to get a Master's in Education and he was my cooperating teacher at Craig High School in Janesville, Wisconsin. Thanks to his encouragement, I spent almost 50 years pursuing quality education for students. I spent most of my educational career in Connecticut, so Tom and I lost touch over the years, but we connected a few times. I only worked with him as a teaching colleague, but his commitment to students so evident then, only increased over the years as he provided leadership in so many schools and districts, including Green Bay with his beloved Packers. Tom was a good friend and mentor to me and a great educator for all that he touched.

Dale and Linda Kent

November 29, 2021

All four of Tom's boys went into education, all attended the UW and , if I'm not mistaken, all named one of their boys Tom as a middle name. There is no greater tribute to a Dad than that. Actions have always spoke louder than words to my way of thinking and these actions speak volumes.

Linda (Trappe) Scheid

November 28, 2021

Remembering those days at 17, dinners seated on the floor, and one storm related trip to the crawl space.
Peace be with you on your grief journey.

Eternal Affection Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

Maple Dale-Indian Hill Staff

Sent Flowers

Joan (Baranczyk) Laskowski

November 21, 2021

Kathleen and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Tom's passing. My years of working with him at Pulaski High School, as his secretary, are among some of my fondest memories. He was a wonderful man who loved his family and impacted many lives throughout his journey on this earth. He will be missed. May you find peace in knowing that he is resting in the loving arms of our Lord. Keeping you all in thought and prayer.

John Kammerud

November 20, 2021

We shared a similar occupation; that of school superintendent. He was always gracious in our interactions. As many others have noted (more than any other element of his character), Tom was a good man. He will be missed by all with whom he shared his life.

Ray Shiffer

November 20, 2021

Tom was the principal at Pulaski when I was hired in 1977. He was key in making my start in teaching enjoyable and successful. But beyond that, our families became friends. He offered his home to us for a few weeks while we were building a new house. I recall wonderful times at cookouts at the Joynts' (photo in gallery) as well as the occasional birthday celebration.
He has contributed much to the field of education, but more to the betterment of the world through his kindness, generosity, and his ability to tell a good story.

Mary Conway VanHaute

November 19, 2021

My first teaching job was at Pulaski High School. Without his encouragement and infectious smile, I would have surrendered that first year. I went on to finish a 33-year career and am still conducting training in my retirement. He will always be remembered as one of my mentors. Heartfelt sympathies

Belinda Hermans

November 18, 2021

So very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I will always remember his joyful, kind smile. Take care.

Pauline Peplinski

November 18, 2021

We are shock and saddened to hear this news! Tom was a wonderful person doing so much for the Pulaski Schools and community. Dorothy had so many good things to say about him and valued his friendship as did Steve and I. You have our deepest sympathy. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Don Bryson

November 17, 2021

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Tony Klaubauf

November 17, 2021

Tom was so important in the advancement of educators around the State of Wisconsin. I will never forget his leadership, optimism, sense of humor and friendship. The world lost a good one with the passing of Tom.

Frances Renn-Malcheski

November 17, 2021

Tom was an inspiration and great mentor. Very sad to know he's gone.

Todd Steffen

November 16, 2021

Kathy and family. I am so deeply touched by your loss. Tom, his dad Don, and the entire Joynt family meant so much to our family. I tried to emulate Tom on his deep faith and unconditional love he had for his family and friends. His true commitment and contribution to education will always live on. He touched so many lives. Who else becomes an esteemed recognized state leader in education and then in retirement,humbles himself to help out as a reading buddy in a Milwaukee elementary school! And the many stories he told, so precious! I'll miss him deeply. Rest in peace Tom! Rest in peace...........

Janet Luedke

November 16, 2021

Kathleen, I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Jeremy Wadzinski

November 16, 2021

Dr. Joynt was a great role model and someone I truly looked up to at a formative time in my life. I have even copied the epic basketball battles in the driveway and have instituted my own version with my boys and their friends although it does not have the same ring as 'doc ball'. My deepest sympathies to Matt, Kathy, and the rest of the Joynt family during this difficult time.

Homer and Jan Leicht

November 15, 2021

Kathy and Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. It was my privilege to teach in Menomonee Falls under the direction of Superintendent Tom Joynt. Tom was truly dedicated to education. Our school district was lucky to have his leadership. Please accept our sympathies.
Homer and Jan Leicht

Joe Heinzelman

November 15, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Tom well as we interacted while I was superintendent at Oakfield, WI. May God bless and keep you in this very difficult time.

Dan Dobratz

November 15, 2021

My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Dr. Thomas Joynt. He hired me for my first teaching position in education (Pulaski). He was compassionate, understanding, direct (when he had to be) but most of all he cared for those connected in education (students, parents and staff). What a role model! Thank you for sharing him with me and I will never forget him.

Paul Orlich

November 15, 2021

My deepest sympathy to his family. Dr. Joynt was a mentor, advisor and friend. He was my instructor for many UW-Milwaukee courses in the superintendent licensure program as well as a committee member on my dissertation team. I will always remember our meetings at Barnes and Noble and his willingness to read my dissertation again and again. His kindness and wisdom had a great impact on me. Paul Orlich

R Scott Pierce

November 15, 2021

My deep sympathy to the Joynt Family. I knew and worked with Dr. Joynt as a fellow Superintendent of Schools as well as teaching administrative leadership courses. He was an outstanding school district leader who served as an inspiration to all he worked with. Dr. Joynt will be sadly missed.

James P Heiden

November 15, 2021

I had the distinct pleasure of working with Tom at UW-Milwaukee in the Administrative Leadership program. Tom was also a part of my dissertation committee when I received my PhD. Tom was a consummate professional that I strived to emulate in my personal and professional life. He was always there to provide a word (or two) of wisdom during my years as a district administrator. He will be missed.

Al Behnke

November 15, 2021

My condolences to the Joynt Family. I had the pleasure of working for Tom when he was Superintendent in the Green Bay School District. He was an outstanding educator, outstanding leader, outstanding person and dedicated family man ! He led the district during some challenging times. The stories he would often share made everyone laugh. I can't say enough great things about him! My sympathy to the family !

Sandra Mountain

November 15, 2021

As requested in lieu of flowers, I am thanking Dr. Thomas Joynt as one of the most influential educators in my life. Without Tom's support and insights, I cannot imagine how my educational journey would have changed. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are missed.

Corey Golla, School District of Menomonee Falls

November 15, 2021

On behalf of our District I offer our sympathy for your loss. Through his work and family Dr. Joynt has left an exceptional legacy of service to public education.

Ken McCormick

November 15, 2021

Prayers to your family. May your memories help fill your hearts with peace.

Eitan Benzaquen

November 15, 2021

Tom was a member of my dissertation committee, he did an awesome job of pushing me to think about things and reflect on a deeper level. Tom was a great person and colleague, with a real passion for education. My sincerest condolences.

Kurt Weyers - Superintendent, Ashwaubenon

November 15, 2021

Please accept my sincere and deepest sympathy for the passing of Tom. I am keeping the entire Joynt family in my thoughts and prayers. Like many others, Dr. Joynt had a profound impact on my leadership career. For many of us, he was more than a professor, he was a true mentor, friend, and colleague. I truly valued and appreciated our numerous coffee conversations at Barnes and Noble. Thank you Dr. Joynt for always having the time. You will be deeply missed.

Pat Hermans

November 15, 2021

Kathy and Family, My most sincere condolences! Tom has left a legacy of values and principles in the field of education that will live on forever! I was proud to have worked with him and for him!

Eileen Cline

November 15, 2021

Deepest sympathy to your family. I always enjoyed interacting with you and your family

Stephen Miller

November 15, 2021

So sorry to hear about Tom's passing. He was an inspiration to all the staff and students in Green Bay. I was fortunate enough to get to know him early in my career and he was always very supportive of my aspirations to become an administrator.

Tom & Joyce Beyer

November 14, 2021

We are so very sorry to hear of the great loss of Tom Joynt. He hired me in 1978 to teach French at Pulaski High School. I admired his leadership abilities, his determination and his love of learning. Our sincere condolences to Kathy snd their sons. Tom was a great educator and friend who will be missed profusely.
Joyce and Tom Beyer

Daniel P Schrickel

November 14, 2021

My deepest sympathies to the whole family. Dr Joynt's loss is monumental. We are all better for having known him. He will be missed.

Rosie Wiand

November 14, 2021

My deepest sympathy to his family. I remember him well as Superintendent at Pulaski. Rest In Peace, Dr Joynt

Sharon Rehn

November 14, 2021

I was so saddened to learn of Tom’s passing. He was such a wonderful, caring man. His family was everything to him. I was so fortunate to teach in the Pulaski District while he was superintendent. I also had some of his boys as students in second grade. Both he and Kathy were always involved in their boys’ education. Sending sympathy and healing to the entire family.
Always,
Sharon Rehn

Faith Schweiner

November 14, 2021

Tom was a great superintendent! Back to school meetings are always dull, but I never minded coming to listen to Tom's "Welcome Back" speech-always interesting and fun to listen to. My sympathies to your family on the loss of a great man.

Christopher Campbell

November 14, 2021

Dr. Joynt was instrumental in providing the open door for piloting the DARE program as a new curriculum & life skills opportunity for fifth grade students in Meno. Falls. His partnership with SDMF leaders such as assistant superintendent (curriculum) Dr. Keith Marty, Principal Ken Semman, counselor Lynn Luebben, teacher Karen Blicharz & all teachers & staff involved as this program progressed. As a rookie instructor Dr. Joynt & Dr. Marty were both so supportive & welcoming, and insightful about program framework & delivery, and the good that it would do for children! This is a small part of his legacy, but I have many good memories of what a great community-builder Dr. Joynt was in the civic life of Menomonee Falls. God bless YOU, Dr. Joynt, your blood family & your educator family today & always, sir!

Mary & Les Marlowe

November 14, 2021

Tom was such a great Dad! I worked as a teacher for many years in Pulaski, where he was our Superintendent. His boys all attended the school that I taught at and I loved working with them. My fondest memories of Tom...were as a father. He came to all the parent teacher conferences and was filled with pride as we talked about his children. He always had some great stories to share about what they were busy doing as a family. His wife, Kathy is a gem as well. When our fourth son was born (just like the Joynt family!), Kathy and Tom sent me a very heartwarming note about how special boys were and how we needed to embrace how unique each one of them was. I still have that note! Our sympathy to the Joynt family on their loss. May your many great memories sustain you in the difficult days you will navigate ahead. Much love, Mary Marlowe & family

Raymond White

November 14, 2021

God bless and peace be with you.

Ellen Van Pay

November 14, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of Tom Joynt's passing. He touched many lives during his time as superintendent and as a professor of administrative leadership. His legacy will live on and he will continue to positively impact children's lives throughout the state for many years to come. My sincere sympathy and prayers go out to his family.

Julie Rane

November 14, 2021

My sympathies to the family. Mr. Joint was a champion of education and a fine example to many. My mom,Peggy Wolfgram, considered him not only a colleague but a friend.

Dirk Ribbens

November 13, 2021

Tom Joynt was my advisor and major professor through UW Milwaukee for the superintendent license program. However, he was much more. He was a mentor, a fellow woodworker, and a brilliant, compassionate conversationalist, always available for a cup of coffee at Barnes and Noble or a walk on his property up at the tip of Door County. I count him among the top two professional role models of my career. Thanks, Tom.
Dirk

Wendy and Craig Francour

November 13, 2021

Joynt family, we extend our heartfelt sympathies on the passing of your mentor and beloved patriarch. May God surround you with his peace and may each of the memories of moments spent together laughing and learning all Dr. Joynt had to share bring your hearts a bit of comfort during these most difficult of days. With love, the Francour’s

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