Thomas C. Bretl

1950 - 2016

Thomas C. Bretl obituary, 1950-2016, Appleton, WI

Thomas C. Bretl

1950 - 2016

BORN

1950

DIED

2016

Thomas Bretl Obituary

Visit the Wichmann Funeral Home - Laemmrich Chapel website to view the full obituary.
Thomas C. Bretl, age 66, of Appleton, passed away at his home on Sunday, December 18, 2016. Tom was born on September 23, 1950, in Antigo, to the late Richard J. and Elizabeth (O'Brien) Bretl. He was a talented and respected truck driver for Pechiney Plastics (formerly American National Can). Tom was an avid motorcycle enthusiast with a passion for Italian motorcycles and was a charter member of the American Motorcyclists Association. Tom was also a true outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He especially enjoyed the time he spent with his two granddaughters. Survivors include his life partner, Sue; his son, Rick Bretl; his daughter, Rhea (Erik) Hogden; his granddaughters, Katelyn and Aubrey; his sisters, Marie Bretl and Sue Copeland; and his brother, Larry (Connie) Bretl. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his brother Rick and his brother-in-law, Douglas "Chic" Copeland. A Celebration of Tom's life will be at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 29, 2016, at the WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME—TRI-COUNTY CHAPEL, 1592 Oneida Street, Menasha. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services. The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at ThedaCare at Home, for their loving care. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com

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

Wichmann Funeral Home - Laemmrich Chapel

312 Milwaukee Street, Menasha, WI 54952

Sign Thomas Bretl's Guest Book

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December 30, 2016

Terry Eskew Van Beek posted to the memorial.

December 29, 2016

Marlene Dunn Till posted to the memorial.

December 28, 2016

a loved one sent flowers.

Terry Eskew Van Beek

December 30, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss and offer my sympathy at this sad time. I have many great memories of camping at high banks, playing darts and good times in general with the Bretls and Metkos. Thoughts and prayers for you all.

Marlene Dunn Till

December 29, 2016

It was hard to believe he is gone, but he has gotten his angel wings just in time to celebrate Christmas in heaven. Tom was a wonderful man. My heart goes out to all the family as I know what is like to lose a man of Tom's integrity & nature, as my husband died 6 weeks ago. Tom's pain is gone but his love will never end. We will surely miss him. Keep memories alive & he will smile on you forever.

FTD Natural Wonders Bouquet

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Craig & Pat Hauser

December 27, 2016

Our sincere condolences to The Bretl Family. We had lots of fun at the cottage and out on the farm. See you in Heaven. God be with you all during this time.

Steve Kasten

December 27, 2016

we will miss Tom

Betty(jim) Treleven

December 25, 2016

To the entire Bretl family in Memory of Tom. One of the nicest guys I had pleasure to know back in the Blacks Drive In Days...Wasnt but 3yrs ago we talked briefly at Blacks Reunion Picnic. Tom RIP and we will meet up again.Amen

Josh Wilson & Sara Bertam

December 24, 2016

Tom meant so much to us. He was that smiling hard working face that you could always depend on. From the races at Daytona to running a brush cutter at our property, to a occasional Hey you want to just get some dinner at the bar... He was an all around great guy who shared the same passion that some of us have. Our deepest sympathy he will be very missed. Josh & Sara

Kris Petersen-Gauthier

December 23, 2016

Tom's kindness and easy smile were ever present in the years we shared on Green Grove. He is already missed. Rick, Rhea, Sue and other family members, you have our deepest sympathy.

Jim Krueger

December 21, 2016

I knew Tom from Blacks Drive back in 1965. We were friends from then on. He always loved cars and motor cycles. Later we worked at Presto products . Tom got me my job there. I was there for 33 years. We had lots of fun over the years and at a couple Blacks drive in reunions. I was so sorry to learn of Tom's illness especially when he had been so healthy all hi s life. Now he will join his loved ones in heaven and leave us here to carry on. I want to thank Toms sister Sue for the love and care she gave Tom while he was sick. You were a true blessing and comfort to him. My God's love be with Tom and his family , Warmest regards, Jim (Boots) Krueger

Jeff and Kris Driessen

December 21, 2016

The world just lost a great person. Tom was a good man and added a lot to the lives of people who knew him. I'm so sad to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family and friends.

The Mischler Family

December 21, 2016

Our deepest sympathy Sue and family. Prayers are with you during this difficult time and the days and weeks ahead.

Mukwa Ode

December 21, 2016

I'm thanking creator for allowing me the privilege of meeting this great man. He was very talented and hard working. He raised wonderful loving children who pass his legacy on. My prayers for a peaceful journey. You will all see one another when creator calls.

Scott Zarda

December 20, 2016

Our deepest sympathy to the Bretl family. There are many treasured memories shop talk, racing and an always eventful motorcycle ride. Tom was a true man, who was always an inspiration and an encouragement, which will never be forgotten. 0ur thoughts and prayers are with Family and friends at this difficult time.

Todd and Steph Darling and family

December 20, 2016

Tom will be greatly missed. The world lost an amazing man.

Deedee Sumner

December 20, 2016

So very sorry to hear this. Tom always had a great smile and laugh and will be missed. Hugs to the Bretl Family. Cherish those memories.....

Gary and Sharon Rine

December 20, 2016

With deepest sympathy to the Bretl family. 0ur thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. There are many treasured memories which will never be forgotten.

Gary and Sharon Rine

December 20, 2016

With deepest sympathy to the Bretl family. 0ur thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. There are many treasured memories which we will never be forgotten.

Woody Eckes

December 20, 2016

Rudy Gipp just got another rider to wrench for. Rest in peace my friend, remember the good times family and friends.

Lynn Wakefield (fomerly Lynn Metko)

December 20, 2016

I'm so sorry to read this sad news. My condolences. Tom always had a chuckle. I knew he is one of the best kind of people from the day I met him.

Cindy Murphy

December 20, 2016

Tom Bretl family....My sympathies are with you at this difficult time. I haven't seen Tom for years but I do remember him as always having a smile and being a great guy. Rhea and Rick were just small children at the time. I have pictures of Rick and my daughter Tina (Hickinbotham) Sharer when they were quite small at Christmas time?Tina also sends her condolences. Peace be with the family. Cindy Murphy ( formally Hickinbotham)

Vicki & Roger Schmidt

December 20, 2016

Sue, Rick & Rhea--we were so, so sorry to hear about Tom! He was always a kind, gentle man! You all will be in our thoughts and prayers!

Roaring Bear

December 20, 2016

Sue, Rick, and Rhea, I am filled with tears and sorrow about the loss of my fellow Warrior and good friend Tom, better known to me as Wolf, a man of true integrity, love, and compassion. Wolf has always been a friend, confidant, and provider of support to me during some of my most difficult times. My memories of Wolf are those of someone always smiling and full of life and that is how I will always remember him. Wolf has left a mark on my heart that will remain with me during my time on this earth. I love you Wolf. I love you Sue, Rick, and Rhea and want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Don

Mel Bailin

December 20, 2016

sending love to the Bretl family. Tom was a great, fun neighbor who always was willing to lend a hand, and Tom and his sense of humor will be missed by all of us. Rest in peace friend, and be pain free ! Love the Green Grove Neighbors..

Janet & Gary Stampka

December 20, 2016

Our deep sympathy goes to the Thomas Bretl family. We knew him as Rhea's father. We remember his nice smile and always tried to be around his family when needed. He loved his granddaughters very much. He will be missed. As someone who has lost a father, my heart aches for Rhea. You will be in our thoughts and prayers...

Ron & Diane Newell

December 20, 2016

Sue, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your brother at such a young age. Ron especially remembered and enjoyed hunting and camping with Tom so much. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Ron & Diane Newell

Paula Grenier

December 20, 2016

Our prayers are with Sue , Rhea, Rick and the rest of the Bretl family. Tom was a loving, kind man. It was an honor to know him.

Char & Dave VanDenHeuvel

December 19, 2016

Sue, we are so sorry for your loss. Dave knew Tom and his father when they drove for American Can and thought highly of them both. Prayers for you and your family. RIP Tom.

Johnson racing

December 19, 2016

The world has lost a truly great man. He loved his family, always had a good word for everyone he met. He was a great motorcycle enthusiast. He will be missed by everyone that ever knew him. RIP Tom, no more pain.

Todd Kuepper

December 19, 2016

You all have my condolences. Now at least he has no pain.

Chris Nicholas

December 19, 2016

To Sue Copeland .... Sorry for your loss, (and to the rest of the family, too)!

Chris

Gail Leitermann

December 19, 2016

Rhea, I am truly sorry to hear of your father's death. He was one of my favorite father's when you were in the horse project. He showed his support and you made him very proud with all of your accomplishments then and now.

Kathy and Jim Egstad

December 19, 2016

So sorry to hear of Tom's death. We remember his great help moving us to Madison. Blessings to his family.

Schnabel family

December 19, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Our prayers for you and your family.

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Sign Thomas Bretl's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 30, 2016

Terry Eskew Van Beek posted to the memorial.

December 29, 2016

Marlene Dunn Till posted to the memorial.

December 28, 2016

a loved one sent flowers.