Thomas Francis Gengler DDS

Born April 8, 1932, and died December 8, 2025, Tom was a kind, humble and selfless man who loved God, family, country, and his profession. He was fun- loving, quick with a joke, and always up for a good time.
Tom was a proud and grateful graduate of Marquette University High School (Class of 1950) and Marquette University Dental School (1956). He was deeply thankful for the education and opportunities Marquette provided throughout his life.
Following dental school, Tom served four years in the U.S. Army, including service in Korea. A smart man, Tom proposed to Marland "Babe" Gengler before he was deployed. They were married upon his return to the United States and went on to share many wonderful years together. Known fondly as "Babe and Doc," they were completely devoted to one another and built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.
Tom had a long career as an orthodontist practicing in Wauwatosa. He was known not only for his skill but for his gentle, friendly manner. When asked why he liked his work, Tom said he enjoyed helping people feel good about themselves. He believed in the power of a smile and took immense pride in helping others love theirs.
Tom was an exceptional father and grandfather. He was immensely proud of his three children: Mary (Bob) Fuhr of Chelan, WA; Sue (Tom) Canepa of Oak Park, IL; and Tom (Ellen) Gengler of Tukwila, WA. They were the light of his life. He cherished his grandsons Erik Fuhr of Vancouver, BC; Matt (Lauren and great- grandson Miles) Fuhr of Snoqualmie Pass, WA; Vince (Kristin) Canepa of Austin, TX.; Tony Canepa of Chicago, IL; and Charlie Canepa, Denver, CO. He taught them the importance of integrity, honesty, and hard work.
He took every opportunity to spend time with his kids and grandkids, faithfully attending countless school, sports, and church events. Highlights included taking his girls to the annual DSHA Father-Daughter Dance and taking his sons, sons-in- law and grandkids on hunting and skiing trips. While these may seem like typical activities, it is important to know that any outing with Doc would become an unpredictable adventure!
Tom lived his dream when he and Babe moved to Middle Genesee Lake. There, he created a special world for his children and grandchildren where they could enjoy simple pleasures such as taking a slow pontoon boat ride around the lake, participating in a daily American flag raising/lowering ceremony, and raising a glass to toast at sunset with one of his famous lines: "It doesn't get any better than this!"
Endlessly patient, Tom taught many children how to ride a bike, ski, waterski, and play tennis. He did not want anyone to miss out on these favorite past-times. While Tom honestly believed that nothing was better than his house on the lake, he indulged Babe's adventurous spirit and they traveled the world. He delighted in taking family trips from "Fat Lake" in Northern Wisconsin to the mountains in Colorado to beautiful Italy, creating lasting memories and countless funny stories.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Isabel Gengler; his brother Anthony and sister-in-law Gaida; his twin sisters who died at birth; and his sister- in-law Rosemary Nelson. He is survived by his sister-in-law Florence Rose, many nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of dear friends.
Per his request, Tom's body has been donated to the Medical College of Wisconsin. Visitation will be held on January 30 at San Camillo Chapel, 10200 W. Bluemound Road, Wauwatosa from 1:00 to 2:45 p.m., with a Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. also in the Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marquette University High School, St. Camillus Foundation (benefitting Memory Care), the Alzheimer's Association, or a charity of your choice. https://www.stcam.com/order-of-st-camillus-foundation
https://www.muhs.edu/giving/give-now
The family invites guests to wear bright, cheerful, comfortable clothing in honor of
Tom's friendly personality. Marquette wear is, of course, most welcome.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone at St. Camillus Memory Care and the Hospice team for their love and care, especially Fred Curtis, the dedicated Sisters-particularly Sr. Veronica, who always made Tom smile-and the late Tiffany Jones.