About
Thomas Patrie Obituary
Thomas Michael Patrie was born on January 10, 1938, in Eau Claire, WI, to Robert and Elsie Patrie. He grew up with strong values of service, integrity, and dedication. These are qualities that shaped the life he lived and shared with those around him.
On June 24, 1961, he married the love of his life, Betty Patrie, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. Together, they built a family grounded in love, respect, and unwavering support. Thomas is survived by his wife, Betty Patrie; his sister, Theresa Muenzverg; his children, Renee (Fred) Ruszkiewicz and Sue (Jeff) Nicoson; and his grandchildren, Amanda Jurss, Amy (Eric) Ivio, Chase (Paige) Nicoson, and Kyle (Hannah Wulf) Nicoson; as well as his great-grandchild, Ryker Nicoson-all of whom brought him immense joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elsie Patrie, and his brother, Richard Patrie.
A proud Army veteran, Thomas served his country with honor and commitment. Following his military service, he continued a life dedicated to protecting others as a member of the Wisconsin State Patrol. He is remembered for his professionalism, steady leadership, and deep sense of duty.
Beyond his service, Thomas was known for being an avid collector, a computer guru, and a lover of westerns. He was loving, patient, funny, and enjoyable to be around. He will always be remembered as the devoted husband, father, and grandpa that he was. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held on February 7th at Legacy Funeral Home in East Troy, WI. The visitation will be at 10:30am and a service at 11:30am.
The family would like to thank Waukesha Memorial ICU/Hospice along with Legacy Funeral Home for their compassion and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Thomas Patrie lived a life of purpose, service, and love. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Susan Fay
Yesterday
I worked with Betty at Kiwanis Manor many years ago. I did meet Tom and we found out that he knew my uncle from Eau Claire. My uncle was a physician very involved with drunk driving laws in Wisconsin. My brother-in-law owned the photography studio that took high school graduation pictures of the girls. Our very small world! Tom will be greatly missed.
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Charles Lorentz
February 7, 2026
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time. As members of the State Patrol, due to varying assignments our paths rarely crossed, but it was an honor to know that "cousin" Tom and I were teammates in promoting highway safety.
Chuck and Jan Lorentz
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2974 Main St PO Box 672, East Troy, WI 53120
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