Thomas Blazek

Thomas James Blazek, 73, of Pound, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, following a ten-month battle with cancer.

Tom was born on September 11, 1952, to the late Melvin “Bucky” and Mavis (Kamke) Blazek. He graduated from Oconto Falls High School in 1970 and went on to study in the auto mechanics program at NWTC.

At the young age of 16, Tom began his long and dedicated career in trucking, starting with Springside Cheese. Over the years, he worked for several companies, eventually becoming an owner-operator. He retired from trucking in August 2020, but continued working part-time during his early retirement years, driving dump truck for Thomson Excavating—a job he truly enjoyed.

On June 7, 1980, Tom was united in marriage to Linda Slempkes at St. John Lutheran Church in Gillett, with his uncle, Rev. William Kamke, officiating. This past June, Tom and Linda celebrated 45 years of marriage.

Tom will be remembered most for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and deep love for his family. He is survived by his wife, Linda; his children, Amber (James) Kuchenbecker Jr., Travis (Krista) Blazek, and Brett "Moochie" Blazek; and his beloved grandchildren, Trent and Brayden Blazek, and Hunter and Haylee Kuchenbecker. He is further survived by his brothers, Allan (Sally) Blazek and Dennis (Judy) Blazek; brothers-in-law, Dan (Joan) Slempkes and David (Karen) Slempkes; sisters-in-law, Cindy (Mike) Trepanier and Julie (Jon) Bostedt; godchildren, Troy Blazek and Sheila Fisher; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents and his father and mother in law, Edward and Mary Slempkes.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Unity Hospice for their compassionate care, especially Tori, Sarah, Alisha, and Chaplain Nicole.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue on Thursday, October 23, beginning at 9:00 AM at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Suring, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Beth Macha. Tom will be laid to rest at Pine Hill Cemetery in Spruce.