Thomas C. Hoel

Thomas “Tom” Hoel, age 73, passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2023.  Tom was born September 25, 1949, in Appleton, WI to Leroy and Eileen (Sullivan) Hoel.  Tom grew up in Appleton along with his three older siblings and graduated from Appleton East High School- the first graduating class there.

 

Following High School Tom entered the Army and served proudly in the Vietnam War.  He served two years and returned home to Appleton and married Joan Radley in 1982. They shared the next 13 years together raising their two sons.

 

Tom spent the majority of his work life as an arborist for the City of Appleton and enjoyed outdoor activities including but not limited to hunting and fishing-especially with big brother Dan! He loved to spend time with his family, and especially enjoyed using the family season Packer tickets with his boys and dancing and joking with his daughter. Tom was an avid supporter of the sports in which his kids played and loved to take each of them fishing. 

 

Tom had a gift of making everyone in his world feel important. He was always curious about their lives, asked “all the questions” and wanted to know all the ins and outs of their lives.  One of his greatest joys was his collection of grandchildren-currently numbering 8!  He loved to chase them around, play games and watch them play.

 

Tom is survived by his sons: Chris (Brianna) Hoel, Jason (Melissa) Hoel, daughter: Brenda (Ryan) Stoller; ex-wife and good friend Joan; grandchildren: Liam, Kinsley, Gianna, Emma, Nikolas, Willow, Preston and Danica.  He is further survived by brothers Dan Hoel and Pat Reed, and many good friends. Tom was preceded in passing by his parents, and his sister Mary Ellen.

 

A memorial service for Tom will be held on Wednesday August 9, 2023, at 11:00am at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior Street, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 9:00am until the start of the service.  Final arrangements for burial are still pending.