Thomas A Pyka

Thomas Pyka,75, of Arcadia, passed away peacefully at his home, Wednesday, January 29, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. Tom's journey began on November 26, 1949, born in Arcadia to Peter and Marion Pyka. He attended Saint Stan's Catholic School and Arcadia High School where his years were filled with sports, best friends and many trips picking up the ladies and heading to Midway and E&Js rocking it out at dances. He graduated in 1967. After high school, Tom enlisted and proudly served his country as a Machinist Mate Third Class in the US Navy aboard the USS Pritchett DD - 561. Stationed in San Diego, California, his tours included Vietnam, Cambodia, and Japan, where his destroyer accompanied and protected aircraft carriers. Ports of call included, Yokosuka, Sasebo, Pusan Korea, Hong Kong, Pearl Harbor, and Subic Bay. His ship was decommissioned at the end of his tour. Following the Vietnam war, he was honorably discharged and returned to Arcadia. He was a member of the local American Legion Tickfer-Erickson Post 17 for 50 years. He worked for Peerless Chain as a machinist for 35 years until retirement in 2009. Tom's humor was infectious, his smile contagious and love for his family profound. He was a very kind, patriotic, gentle and loving man who attracted many and loved classic rock. His love story began in 1971 when he met the love of his life Barbe at a softball game in Waumandee. He married Barbara Rebhahn on November 24, 1973 and had three children, Nicholas Pyka (Jennifer) of Trempealeau , Brandon Pyka (Nikki Konzem) of Trempealeau , and Jenna Anderson (Jake) of Independence. They were married for 51 years. Tom's world centered around his family. A very devoted hard working husband and father, he loved taking the family fishing, hunting, camping and racing. He always ensured they had enough fishing gear because someone was always hung up in a tree. He fixed Barbe's snags and tied new line without ever complaining and always put them in the hot fishing spots so he could relish in the smiles when they caught fish. His love for taking the kids racing and collecting drivers signatures and cars led to a collection of over 600 cars. His time with the Hesch 4x race team was a chapter by itself. It was one of deep friendships and happy memories. He was most proud of Barbe's Community Service and nursing profession, Nic's Millwork/Edge Race Car building success, Brandon's successful Audio Designs business and Jenna's nursing career showing her endless compassion helping him through his Alzheimer's journey. He enjoyed and cherished family vacations, steak fry's, baloney bowl and holiday gatherings. He loved his extended family. Exaggerated hunting, big fishing and racing stories could be heard at gatherings followed by a lot of laughter. The many wonderful memories made together will be cherished forever. Tom is survived by his wife, children and sister, Jane Pyka. Those preceding him in death are his parents and brothers, Robert and Jimmy. A private graveside service for family and extended family will be held at St. Stanislaus Cemetery honoring Tom's last wishes. Wozney-Killian Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, a donation to American Legion Post 17 can be made in Tom's honor. We all die twice, once when our bodies give out and again when the stories stop being told. It was a long hard goodbye but we found joy in each other. You are forever free my love. Your stories will always be told.