Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Obituary
Guest Book
Mar
24
11:00 a.m.
Highland Memorial Park
14875 West Greenfield Avenue, New Berlin, WI 53151
Thomas E. Oettinger -
Born to eternal life on January 31, 2026. Tom was born in Milwaukee and moved with his family to Kiel, WI, at an early age. He was the son of the late Walter and Mildred Oettinger.
Tom was a graduate of Kiel High School. After graduation he served his country in the US Army and was stationed in Germany. A few years after discharge he met the love of his life, Betty. They married and raised two children, Nathan and Jennie.
Tom worked hard for many years. From "pitchin' peas" as a kid to working at Lake to Lake cheese factory in Kiel, AC Spark Plug, and Zerand Corporation (Stevens Graphics), from which he retired after 25 years of service.
Tom enjoyed bowling and golfing for many years. He also enjoyed watching sports on TV, with football being his favorite.
He was a loving husband and father and will be missed greatly.
He was preceded in death by his son, Nathan, and is survived by his wife, Betty; sister, Judy (Tony); daughter, Jennie (Michael); daughter-in-law, Brenda; grandchildren, Alexandra (Nick) and Andrew (Amber); great-grandson, Conor; and many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank those who cared for Tom at Linden Grove Waukesha and the exceptional staff with Legacy Hospice who brought extra comfort and visitors to him often in his final months.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: The Alzheimer's Association or The Mike Rowe Works Foundation.
Service with Military Honors (if available):
Tuesday, 3/24/2026 11:00am
Highland Memorial Park
14875 W Greenfield Ave, New Berlin, WI 53151
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreSponsored