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Thomas Schmelling Obituary
Schmelling, Thomas Milton
MADISON - Tom Schmelling, age 75, lost a hard-fought three year battle with Multiple Myeloma, Interstitial Lung Disease, and finally complications from Covid pneumonia on Jan. 20, 2022 at the VA hospital, surrounded by his adoring family.
Born and raised in Madison, Tom was a proud Central High School and UW-Madison Alum and lifelong Badger and Packer fan. After being drafted into the Vietnam War, Tom returned home to find his sweetheart, Audrey, to whom he remained devoted for nearly 49 years. Tom was the biggest champion for his children and never missed a game, concert, or chance to help with coaching or school activities. Tom was tremendously generous and caring to his family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. He remained active after retirement from the UW Department of Information Technology, playing softball for Babe's and Joe's Atomic Bar, boating on the Madison lakes, traveling to Florida, and puttering around the garage. He maintained a strong connection with childhood friends and many colleagues, meeting regularly for lunch and good conversation. Tom's greatest joy was becoming a grandfather. He delighted in their giggles, encouraged all of their interests, and cherished every minute spent together. Tom was a selfless and loving husband, father, and grandfather and will forever be remembered for his sense of humor and gentle spirit.
Tom is survived by his wife, Audrey; children, Dan, Amy (Adam Roeble); grandchildren, Owen & Emmi, Charlie, Jude, Leo, and Nora. Also survived by his brother, William (Debra) Schmelling; and several nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to Mike, Sara, Noah, Jacob, and countless others for their loving support over the years.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Rd. Madison. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the Funeral Home. Tom will be laid to rest at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery with full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom's name to Badger Honor Flight, Madison Veterans Museum, the Salvation Army, and U.W. Carbone Cancer Center.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Schmelling
Sponsored by Cress Funeral & Cremation Service - Madison West.
Patricia McCabe
January 31, 2022
Tom and I have known each other since Central High days. First we were friends then in-laws for many years. Then he and Audrey became more; they were the best of friends to me and my kids. Tom was one of the nicest, kindest people I've known. He was a blessing in my life, and I will miss him.
Jim Shaft DoIT Network Services Ret.
January 29, 2022
Tom was a great guy to work with at the UW. Sorry to hear of his passing. He was one of the select few that was pleasant and easy to remember from my years working at DoIT. Condolences to his family and friends.
Sean Craig
January 27, 2022
My condolences to Audrey and your family. I have many great memories of the times we spent together so many years ago. Goodbye to Tom, my "racing buddy".
Ellen Dudley
January 26, 2022
My condolences to the entire Schmelling family and friends. The world lost a great man, he will be missed. I worked with Tom for several years. He was consistently kind, helpful and considerate. Tom was the best colleague one could hope for. Tom´s good deeds will be his monument to all of us.
Jeanette (Winter) Sveum and Bill Sveum
January 25, 2022
Bill and I are saddened to hear of Tom's passing. We have been friends for over 50 years. We have many fond memories of getting together, especially when our children were little. I remember Danny and our Megan riding on the train at the Scottsdale railroad park.
May the loving memories be a comfort to you all.
With deepest sympathy,
Jeanette and Bill
Ron J. Olson Jr.
January 25, 2022
Sad to find out about Tom. Loved working with him when I was a student worker at the UW and years later as a full time employee.
The Staff of Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
January 25, 2022
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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