Thomas John Keefe

Thomas John Keefe, age 82, passed away on August 5, 2025. He was born on December 19, 1942, to the late Rudyard and Lucille (Leavy) Keefe in Oshkosh, WI. He grew up in Oshkosh with his sister Ann. Upon graduating from Oshkosh High School in 1961 he began college at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh where he received his Bachelor’s in English & History. Tom began teaching in Milwaukee and soon after moved to Appleton to continue his career. On August 10, 1968, Tom married the love of his life Mary Lloyd and three weeks later entered the Army where he attended Officer Candidate School. Tom received the Bronze Star & the Meritorious Service Award. He was very proud to be a Vietnam veteran. Tom was released from the army in 1971 and he went on to achieve a Master of Arts in History. He continued his service to The United States in the Army Reserve from 1972 -1998.

Tom continued his educational career with the Appleton Area School district retiring in 2000-after a remarkable 33 years of shaping the minds of Appleton’s youth. He enjoyed coaching and was always involved in his children’s lives.

Tom loved spending time at Legend Lake with his family. He enjoyed watching both the Brewers and the Packers. He was passionate about helping others and was an active member of the Grand Chute Lions. Friends were a special part of his life, and he spent many hours with them.

Tom is survived by his wife of 57 years Mary, his children: Tom (Jill), Jennifer (Rob) and Amy (Drew); his adoring grandchildren; and his sister Ann. He will be greatly missed by his good friends as well as fondly remembered by the countless students.

A memorial service to celebrate Tom will take place on Friday August 15, 2025, at 12:00pm at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior Street. Friends may gather at the funeral home from 10:00am until the service begins. Tom will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton.

Tom’s family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and physicians at St. Vincent’s Hospital for their excellent care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Grand Chute Lions, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or a charity of your choice.