Thomas L. Keyes

Thomas L. Keyes, 92, of Sheboygan Falls, passed away peacefully at Pine Haven Christian Home on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

 Thomas was born September 12, 1931 in Sheboygan, the son of Edmund and Arletta (Scharinger) Keyes. In 1949, he graduated from Plymouth High School, and went on to study farming in Madison, and later graduated with a degree in Tool Design from LTC. 

 Tom briefly worked with his father and brothers as a farmer, before beginning a 40+ year career as a tool designer. He worked at Bolens in Port Washington, Gilson Brothers Co. in Plymouth, and lastly Miller Manufacturing in New Holstein. For one year, he proudly served as President of the Regional Section of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. 

 On March 2, 1957 he was united in marriage with Kathleen Reineking in Cascade. The couple shared nearly 67 years together, making countless cherished memories before Kathleen’s passing on January 29, 2024. 

 Tom was a 60+ year member of Blessed Trinity, where he served on the Bereavement Committee, as an usher and communion distributor, and enjoyed visiting with homebound parishioners. He had a strong faith and believed in the importance of service. A devoted volunteer, Tom had been involved with the Mayflower Society, Sheboygan County Historical Society, the Sheboygan Falls Library Board, the Sheboygan Falls Chamber Main Street, and received an award from the American Red Cross for his generosity in blood donation throughout the years. He believed in the importance of ancestry, and logging and treasuring those from the past. Avid travelers, Kathleen and Tom enjoyed countless trips set up by Joan Otto, and wintered in Texas near their son’s family for 19 years. He loved gardening, and took great pride in his yard. His legacy of polite kindness and faith will live on in all those who viewed him as an exemplary role model. 

 Thomas is survived by his son Mike (Kathy) Keyes of Austin, TX; grandchildren: Kyle (Kristin) Keyes and Kelli (Matt) Hoag; and 5 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by brothers Gilbert Keyes of Sheboygan and Wayne (Kay) Keyes of Plymouth, sister-in-law Judy (Ralph) Knuth of Plymouth, special nieces Leah Knuth and Lori Gumm, other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

 He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathleen and his sister-in-law Jackie Keyes.

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Blessed Trinity in Sheboygan Falls with Father Jonathon Schmeckel officiating. The family will receive visitors at the church on Tuesday from 10:00AM until the time of service.

 He will be laid to rest beside Kathleen at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Sheboygan Falls. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested in his name to Blessed Trinity or Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. 

 The Wenig Funeral Home – Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for online condolences.