Thomas I. Leininger

Thomas Irwin Leininger, age 80 of Appleton, WI joined his heavenly kingdom on April 5, 2025. He was born to Irwin and Martha (Carvell) Leininger on March 6, 1945 in Lancaster, PA. After high school, he attended Kutztown University for his undergraduate degree, where he met and married the love of his life, Kay Wilcox, in June of 1967. Following this, he earned his degree in veterinary medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. While at veterinary school, he enlisted in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving for 2 years after graduation.

Tom was passionate and absolutely committed to his work saving and improving the lives of cats and dogs. Tom was a kind, caring, and compassionate man in all of his endeavors. He was greatly loved by clients and has and will be missed by them. Tom had a good sense of humor about him and was beloved by all. More than anything else, Tom loved his family and cherished every moment he could spend with them, loving nothing more than to see a good race on the weekend with his family up at the local track.

Tom will be deeply missed by his wife, Kay; his son, Tom (Katrena); his grandchildren, Marshall and Alex; his brother, Barry; his nephews, Jay and Jeff; as well as many other extended relatives, dear friends, and pet owners he served over the years.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Martha.

A memorial visitation will be held for Tom from 10-11 AM on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Tom will be laid to rest at Churchtown United Methodist Cemetery in Narvon, PA. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local animal shelter in accordance with Tom’s wishes.

Tom’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and other supporting staff at both ThedaCare At Home Hospice and Appleton Retirement Community for their care and compassion shown to Tom during his times of need.