Thomas Kreeke

Thomas M. Van De Kreeke, age 67, of Sheboygan, died Wednesday, April 29, 2015 as the result of a workplace accident. He was born on January 17, 1948 in Sheboygan to Marvin and Carol (Toennies) Van De Kreeke. He attended US Grant Grade School and was a graduate of Sheboygan North High School, Class of 1966. Tom worked at Leverenz Shoe Company for 19 years; then was employed at Sheboygan Paperbox Company for the past 28 years as Logistics Manager. On March 16, 1985 Tom and Sue Dortman were united in marriage at Bethany Lutheran Church in Kohler, WI. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was previously married to Janice Richter. Tom was a member of the Milwaukee Braves Historical Association, Sheboygan SNAFU Club, and the Sheboygan Transportation Association where he served as President. He was passionate about bicycling on the Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio and Iowa trails, clocking 3,000 miles in one summer. He always looked forward to attending the local antique flea markets throughout the summer and relaxed by putting together jigsaw puzzles. Tom's neighbors were an important part of his life. He spent endless hours sitting on the front porch with his best friend, Gerry DuMontheir, solving all of the world's problems. He enjoyed watching the Drescher family's children grow up and pet-sitting their family dog, Mugsey. He was an avid sports fan and participant who enjoyed bowling, baseball, softball, basketball, and golf. He grew up as a huge Milwaukee Braves fan which resulted in a life-long friendship with Bill Bruton, who played centerfield for the Braves. Tom loved to travel and, whether it was a major or minor league team, always took in a baseball game when he could. He and Sue often vacationed with Bill Bruton and Bill's wife, Loretta. Nothing brought him more pleasure than spending time with his grandchildren. In addition to his loving wife, Sue, he is survived by his sons, Gregory Van De Kreeke of Sheboygan and Joel (Megan) Van De Kreeke of Mequon; his step-son, Ryan Kisiolek of Milwaukee; his step-daughter, Kimberly Kisiolek of Milwaukee; his grandchildren, Dylan Van De Kreeke of Neenah, Ashley Van De Kreeke of New Holstein, Valentino Kisiolek of Milwaukee, Gavin Van De Kreeke and Camden Van De Kreeke of Mequon; his brother, Gerald (Sharon) Van De Kreeke of Elkhart Lake; his nephew, Gerald (Nancy) Van De Kreeke, Jr, and their children, Grace and Elizabeth; and other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his niece, Jennifer Van De Kreeke Beaudoin. A warm thanks to Wayne Greenwood who held a special place in Tom's heart. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at Ballhorn Funeral Chapels. Rev. Adam Scheblein, Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held from 3:00 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name.