Thomas F. Van Cleave

Thomas F. Van Cleave of Grafton, entered into God’s loving arms at home on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015 surrounded by his family at the age 84years & 11 Months. Thomas was born in Newton, Iowa on November 14, 1930 to the late Milton F. and Edythe (Nee Watkins) Van Cleave. Tom grew up in Iowa and also met the love of his life there. On December 10, 1949 Thomas was united in marriage to Florence (Nee Nichols) and they were together for 65 wonderful years. In 1958, Tom was transferred through his employer to Grafton, WI. Tom retired from Kapco Metal Stamping and Fabrication. Tom loved camping, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and traveling. He also loved playing cards, his church, church family and most importantly spending time with his family. Tom is survived by his loving wife and best friend Florence (Nee Nichols); Proud and dedicated dad of Thomas L. (Lois), Larry Van Cleave, Cathy (Brian) Collins, Mark Van Cleave and son-in-law Tom Klug. Thomas is further survived by 16 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; sisters: Janet (Bill) Plumb, Carmy (Kenny) Tool, Vicki (Virgil) Kling; brothers-in-law: Dennis (Patty) Nichols and Melvin “Diz” Disbro; sisters-in-law: Gloria Corns, Marilyn (Hersch) Edwards, Saundra (Ron) Tharp, Joan (Chris) Cazier, Karen Van Cleave; many nieces, nephews and great friends. Thomas was preceded in death by his daughter, Debrah Sue Klug; parents-in-law Floyd and Maurine Nichols; brother Melvin; sisters: Carolyn, Dixie, Barbara and Kathleen; sister-inlaw Mary Disbro. A memorial service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church 1193 Lakefield Rd. Grafton, on Saturday, October 24 – 3:00 PM. Family will receive friends at the church on Sat. from 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials of your choice appreciated. A special thanks to Dr. Duffy and Dr. Nand for the exceptional care they gave Tom. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.muellerfuneralhome.com