Thomas Lee Gile

Thomas Lee Gile, 78, of Laona, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 16, 1946, in Sharon, Wisconsin, Tom was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He dedicated his life to education, family, and community, leaving a legacy of quiet strength, compassion, and meaningful impact.
Tom spent 35 years teaching mathematics at Laona High School, where he was admired for his patience, sharp intellect, and love of learning. Beyond the classroom, he served as the high school's golf coach, sharing his passion for the sport and mentoring students with the same calm guidance he brought to teaching.
A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Tom found joy on the fairway, on the water, in the garden, and on the trail. He was an avid golfer and devoted fisherman-two pastimes that brought him peace, purpose, and connection with those he loved. He also found great satisfaction in gardening, nurturing vegetables with care and pride. Biking was another favorite activity that kept him active, offering time with his friends and logging their miles ridden on his many spreadsheets.
He introduced the game of golf to his son, Joe, and their shared rounds became treasured moments over the years. In retirement, he continued to serve his community and stay close to the game he loved through his work at Nicolet Country Club.
Tom had a gift for conversation. He loved talking with everyone-family, friends, neighbors, or even a stranger passing by the house or on the course-and especially enjoyed reminiscing about the past. Whether swapping stories, sharing a laugh, or recalling old memories, he found joy in connecting with others through the simple power of a good conversation.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon "BoBo" Gile; his children, Kathy (Jon) Leach and Joe (Julie) Gile; his grandchildren, Scott (Tam) Leach, Nathan Leach, Katie Leach, Will Gile, and Henry Gile; and his great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Willow, Moses, and Arrow Leach. He is also survived by his sister, Carol (Stan) Guif, along with numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Willard and Eleanor Gile, and his in-laws, Lester and Maline Enders.
Tom will be remembered for his deep devotion to family, his love of teaching, golf, gardening, biking, and storytelling, and the positive influence he had on generations of students, athletes, and friends. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the conversations he cherished, and the quiet strength he modeled every day.
A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 23, at St. Leonard Catholic Church in Laona at 11:00 a.m. with Father Anil Polumari presiding. Visitation will precede the Mass beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Church. Burial will he at the Laona Cemetery.
Weber-Hill & Packard Funeral Home of Crandon is assisting the family with arrangements.