Thomas F. "Tom" Knauf

Thomas "Tom" Fredrick Knauf, 77, of Stratford, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, with his loving and loyal wife, Carol, by his side.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held. Rembs Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Tom was born on October 7, 1947, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, to Fredrick and Ruth Knauf. He grew up as one of five boys and attended St. John's Catholic School before graduating from Marshfield Columbus High School in 1966. A talented athlete, he received a full football scholarship to the University of South Dakota, but injuries shortened his playing career. Tom went on to graduate from UW–Whitewater in 1971. That same year, he married his high school sweetheart, Carol (Uthmeier), beginning a marriage that lasted nearly 54 years and was filled with love, faith, and family.

Tom devoted more than 35 years of his life to teaching business education and coaching football. His career began at Stratford Junior High, followed by coaching roles at Royall High School in Elroy, Stratford High School, Marshfield Senior High, Marshfield Columbus, and UW–Stevens Point. In 1976, Tom took over as Stratford's head football coach, and a decade later led the Tigers to their first-ever state football championship in 1986, completing a perfect 12-0 season. His coaching achievements and leadership earned him induction into the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2007. Beyond wins and championships, Tom was proudest of the young lives he influenced on and off the field.

While football was a passion, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He and Carol raised two sons, Matthew (Kristen) Knauf and Luke (Tiffany) Knauf, who were his pride and joy. After his brother Danny passed away, Tom took his brother's son, Paul Knauf, under his wing lovingly calling him his "third son." He became an even prouder grandfather to Addison, Sheffield, and Ronan, with a fourth grandchild on the way. Tom is also survived by his brother, David (Angela) Knauf and sisters-in-law, Florence Knauf and Janet Knauf. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Kenneth, Daniel, and Michael Knauf and sister-in-law, Yvonne Knauf.

Faith and service were cornerstones of Tom's life. A devoted man of God, he lived with a servant's heart-active in his parish, Meals on Wheels, and countless community efforts. Known for his giving spirit, Tom would offer the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He was tough and demanding as a coach, yet gentle at heart. He loved fishing with his sons, cheering at games, and simply sharing laughter with his family.

Tom will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, and friend. His influence will ripple through generations of students, athletes, and loved ones who carry his lessons forward.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be designated at a later date.