Thomas "Tom" H. Czarnecki Jr.

Thomas H. Czarnecki, Jr., age 81, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, in Grafton, Wisconsin. Born on April 29, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Tom lived a full and vibrant life defined by service, faith, family, and determination of doing things the right way.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for three years. His time stationed at Camp Pendleton, California and Okinawa left a lasting impression on him. He honorably completed his service in 1967 and carried the values of discipline and integrity with him throughout his life.

In 1973, Tom and Dona married at Advent Lutheran Church in Cedarburg—a place that would become a cornerstone of his spiritual journey. A deeply faithful man, he remained an active member of the church for over five decades. His faith played a central role in his life; he often shared his story of sobriety and credited God's love as the guiding force behind it. Tom believed wholeheartedly in the power of prayer and lived each day with gratitude for the second chance he received through divine grace.

Tom was known for his larger-than-life personality. With a sharp wit and impeccable timing, he could tell a joke or spin a story like no other—often leaving rooms filled with laughter. Yet beneath that commanding presence was a heart of gold. He helped countless people throughout his life without ever seeking recognition or reward. His generosity was quiet but profound.

He instilled in his children the importance of reputation—teaching them that honesty, integrity, and dependability were not just ideals but essential ways of living. One of his most enduring lessons was simple yet powerful: “If you’re going to do it, do it right.”

Tom had an adventurous spirit and a passion for life’s simple pleasures. He loved hunting and fishing—finding peace in nature’s rhythm—and had an undeniable need for speed when it came to motorcycles and fast cars. Whether tinkering in the garage or fixing something around the house, Tom always had a project underway.

He is lovingly remembered by his former wife and angel of more than 30 years, Dona Czarnecki; sons Ric (Angela) and Jon (Alicia); daughter Deanna; granddaughters Adia and Alana; grandsons Jakob and Dylan; great-grandson, Peter; brothers Richard (Patti), Mark, and Paul; and his sisters Cathy and Amy.

Tom now joins those who went before him: his father Thomas H. Czarnecki Sr., mother Audrey Czarnecki (nee O'Gorman), stepmother Mildred Czarnecki, and brother Scott Czarnecki.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Advent Lutheran Church, W63 N642 Washington Ave., Cedarburg, Wisconsin. A service will follow at the same location from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Later that day, friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life gathering from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at American Legion Rose-Harms Post 355, located at 1540 13th Ave., Grafton, Wisconsin.

Tom's legacy lives on through those he touched with humor, strength, kindness—and above all—love. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. Semper Fi.