Thomas Jennerjahn

Thomas Jennerjahn, 85, passed away on March 17, 2025, in Appleton, Wisconsin. He was born on July 12, 1939 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin to Wilmer and Mabel (Kranzusch) Jennerjahn.

A proud graduate of Appleton High School, Thomas continued his education at UW Extension, Menasha and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before earning his degree from Spencerian College in Milwaukee in 1961. Tom began working at Krambo Food Store, which later transitioned to Kroger. His career in the grocery and food industry spanned many years and encompassed various roles, including management training in Chicago and managing Sentry Stores across multiple cities including Greenfield, Appleton, Neenah, and Oshkosh. For a decade, Thomas traveled as a sales representative for Best Foods, where he built many lasting friendships. Eventually, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his own business, "Signs Now," and later delighting the community as the manager of "Lil Orbits" for an impressive 27 years at WIR.

Thomas is fondly remembered for his unwavering loyalty and energetic presence with his friends and family. He took immense joy in serving others, whether through his business ventures or in the simple act of caring for his home, which was renowned for having the best lawn on the block. Thomas often volunteered his time and effort, particularly enjoying his six years of supporting the nurses at St. Elizabeth's, where he formed a special bond with nurse Vicki.

Thomas enjoyed cooking for friends and family, had a passion for canning and vegetable gardening. He was also an avid golfer, participating in the "Chaska" senior golf league, and a lifelong bowler. For over 30 years, he cherished attending the Indy 500 and Road America at Elkhart Lake. He was a devoted fan of Wisconsin sports, passionately following his favorite teams.

Thomas is survived by his children David (Julie Deprey) Jennerjahn, Debra “Debs” (Scott) Fabel, Ann (partner Christopher Hinz) Jennerjahn, Rick (Dawn) Tesch; grandchildren Karl and Sophia Jennerjahn, Jennifer (Jacob) Carrow, Kathryn Fabel, Megan (Zach) Hargraves, Shea (Courtney Rodgers) Fabel, Hannah (Alex Priester) Bridges, Haley Bridges, Jacob (Ellyn) Neubauer, Mariah (Joey Reader) Tesch, Alyah (Kevon) Lee, Jenna Tesch, Rebekah Tesch; great-grandchildren Kroy, Kal, Kolby, Kameron, Scottie, Owen, Rylee, Brooks; ex- wife Patricia Buelow; niece Corrine Martino and life-long best friend Daniel Anderson. Thomas was preceded in death by his wife Judy Jennerjahn, his parents Wilmer and Mabel Jennerjahn, sister Donna (Michael) Martino, daughter Susan Kerrigan and grandson Gabe Kerrigan.

A visitation for Thomas will be held on March 26, 2025, from 9:00 am until the time of funeral service at 11:00 am at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St. in Appleton, with burial and committal service to follow at Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Thomas’ memory to the American Heart Association.