Walt Tack Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Zacherl Funeral Home - Fond du Lac on Oct. 1, 2025.
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Walt Tack, 76, of Fond du Lac, passed away on September 19, 2025, with his partner Jean Campbell by his side.
Born to David and Millie Tack on July 25, 1949, Walt grew up in Fond du Lac with his four sisters, Adrienne (Colin) Kelliher, Christine (Phil) Twohig, Julie (Greg) Gross, and Jennifer (Jeff) Kunz. He attended St. Mary's Springs, where he discovered his lifelong love of golf. That passion carried him to UW–Madison, where he lettered in golf, became a proud Badger alum, and a season ticket holder who rarely missed a football game. He was also a loyal supporter of the UW Foundation.
After college, Walt joined the family business, Tack Oil. A few years later, he opened the first of four JetStream Carwashes on Scott Street in Fond du Lac. The carwashes became his passion and a local fixture, helped along by his memorable radio jingles that his children reluctantly had to sing. His love of carwashing ultimately led him to serve as president of the International Carwash Association.
At the age of 24, Walt joined the local Rotary Club, where he rarely missed a meeting. As past president and a member of 52 years, he believed in service and lived out the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self," always looking for ways to make Fond du Lac a better community.
More than anything, Walt was about family and friends. He had four children Lizzy (Braden) Kizer, Suzanne (Corey) Tack, Michael (Stephanie) Tack, and Charlie (Lindsey) Tack with his former wife and lifelong friend Linda. In recent years, he was blessed to share his life with his loving partner of seven years, Jean. Walt valued education and took great pride in making sure all four of his kids graduated from college, something he gave generously to provide. His children, and later his seven grandchildren (Charlotte Andrew, Owen, Conley, Cole, Beau and Witt), were his greatest joy and the source of endless pride. His family will forever remember his smile, his kindness, and his quick wit and sense of humor.
Walt also had a knack for enjoying the simple things in life. A round of golf, a night swapping stories with friends, or his standing order at Joe's Fox Hut: a large pepperoni and sausage with extra crispy crust. These were among his greatest joys.
Walt will be remembered as a devoted father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and someone who made everyone around him feel welcome. He was known for his integrity and honesty. When Walt gave his word, you could count on it.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, sisters and brothers in law, his partner Jean, and the many friends who loved him. Those wishing to honor Walt may do so through donations to the Saint Mary Springs Academy.
In keeping with his wishes, Walt will not have formal services. His children will host a gathering of family and friends at a later date to celebrate his life.
Online condolences may be offered at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family of Walt, please visit our floral store.