Thomas A. Van Deraa

Thomas A. Van Deraa passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022 at 74 years of age.  He was born on February 17, 1948 to Arnold and Margaret (Hooyman) Van Deraa in Appleton, WI.  Tommy graduated from St. John’s High School in Little Chute in 1966.  He married the love of his life, Karen Wiedenhaupt on May 3, 1969, enjoying 53 wonderful years while raising a beautiful daughter together.  He then went onto work at the Kimberly Newpage paper mill until its closure in 2008. 

Tom enjoyed golfing, traveling, and playing cards.  He played proudly as a drummer in a local rock & roll band.  More than anything, though, he enjoyed his family get-togethers and spending as much time as he could with those he loved. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Margaret Van Deraa; his parents-in-law, Ervin and Mildred Wiedenhaupt; his sisters, Lorraine (Tony) Van Boxtel, Virgie (Erv) Vandenberg, Grace (Roy) Schumann, and Peg Van Beane; and his brothers-in-law, Wayne Lennert and Richard Nettekoven.

Tom is survived by his wife, Karen; his daughter, Jennifer (Michael) Van Deraa; his sisters, Carol (John) LeDuc, Jeanne (Eddie) Schaefer, and Joyce Lennert; his sister-in-law, Donna Nettekoven; as well as many other nieces, nephews, and other relatives. 

In respect to Tom's wishes, no funeral services will be held.  In lieu of flowers, please leave an online condolence for Tom's family.  

Tom’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and Kelly from hospice at ThedaCare. 

“I lost my best friend.  I love you.” – Karen