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Thomas Wayne Kemppainen

March 18, 1937 - September 22, 2025
Service
Shepherd of the Hills
N36 W24130 Pewaukee Road Hwy. 164
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 691-0700 |
Saturday 10/18, 3:00 pm

Luncheon to follow.

Tom was born March 18, 1937 to Edit and Ero Kemppainen in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 67 years, Dalyce-Dee (Davis); his sons Rand (Jackie) and Ross (Kari); and greatly loved grandchildren Krista, Erik, Davis, and Natalia. His only sibling was his sister, Linda, who passed in 2020.

Tom graduated from Central College in Pella, Iowa (1959) and earned his Specialist in Educational Administration (1976). He began his career of teaching and coaching in Runnells and then Pleasantville, Iowa.

In 1963 the family moved to Wisconsin where he taught and coached in Edgerton and Janesville. He began his work in administration in Janesville and in 1974 moved to Milton as the High School Principal. Tom loved the student, the parents, and the community of Milton and was there until he retired in 1997.

His and Dee’s desire to be closer to grandchildren was the cause of their move to the Milwaukee area in 1999. He belonged to many professional organizations, but most loved and was most proud of his title of Milton High School Principal.

There will be a visitation from 2:00 PM until the time of memorial at 3:00 PM on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, N36 W24130 Pewaukee Rd Hwy 164, Pewaukee, WI 53072. Luncheon to follow. Visitation from 2-3

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Service
Shepherd of the Hills
N36 W24130 Pewaukee Road Hwy. 164
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 691-0700 | Map
Saturday 10/18, 3:00 pm

Luncheon to follow.

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Tom was born March 18, 1937 to Edit and Ero Kemppainen in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 67 years, Dalyce-Dee (Davis); his sons Rand (Jackie) and Ross (Kari); and greatly loved grandchildren Krista, Erik, Davis, and Natalia. His only sibling was his sister, Linda, who passed in 2020.Continue Reading

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Tree 4 trees were planted in memory of Thomas Kemppainen
Peg Ekedahl Haeger left a message on October 17, 2025:
Tom was a wonderful gentleman, a valued mentor and colleague. It was an honor to serve with him over many years in the Milton School District.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Thomas Kemppainen . Plant a Tree
Angelia (Lamb) Eibergen left a message on October 16, 2025:
I graduated with a class of 1978 and even though it's been quite a few years since then, I still remember Mr. Kemppainen as being a very good Principal. He was fair and always had time to talk to a student. I am so sorry for your loss as he was a very good man.
Craig, Missy and Elaina Seider left a message on October 15, 2025:
We all loved Uncle Tom dearly, and will miss him.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Thomas Kemppainen . Plant a Tree
Love, Becky, Eric, and Patrick left a message on October 13, 2025:
Uncle Tom was loved by us and we will miss him greatly. Sending you all love, compassion, and comfort.
Serene Retreat was purchased for the family of Thomas Kemppainen by Love, Becky, Eric, and Patrick. Send Flowers
Jeremy Bilhorn left a message on October 13, 2025:
Our deepest sympathies to the Kemppainen Family. From the Milton High School Administration and Staff and the School District of Milton.
Red Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of Thomas Kemppainen by Jeremy Bilhorn. Send Flowers
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Sarah (and Sean) Harvatine left a message on October 12, 2025:
It was an honor to teach for Mr. Kemppainen who always treated me and my family with respect. I always loved his visits to MHS after he'd retired.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Thomas Kemppainen . Plant a Tree
Nicole Jenks left a message on October 8, 2025:
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I was one of Nancy Becker's journalism kids and he was an exceptional administrator to deal with as a student journalist. In fact, he'd come up with some great questions when we did controversial surveys.
Barbara Hefti left a message on October 8, 2025:
My deepest sympathy to you, Dee, and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Barb Hefti
JaLayne (Schumacher) Hawkins left a message on October 7, 2025:
Dear Mrs. Kemppainen, I want to express sincere condolence at the loss of Mr. Kemppainen. I hope you will be able to find solace and comfort in those around you that enjoyed being family with , working with, and all around him. May he rest in peace! JaLayne (Schumacher) (Kathy Viney's Daughter - School Busses)
Lloyd Hoyt left a message on October 6, 2025:
Sorry for your loss. He was a good man. Lloyd, Class of 85, MHS.
Karen Greene left a message on October 6, 2025:
Dee, I was so sorry to hear about Tom's passing. I remember our times together in Edgerton, sharing sports moments when he and Ron coached, being two of the five new faces in 1962 that developed into the entire coaching staff; Chet Jurkovac, John Claybaugh, Bob Schrader, Tom and Ron. They all shared in the enthusiasm and friendship that followed. My heartfelt condolences to you and the boys, and know that Tom and Ron are now together, happy and laughing.
Rod & Nancy Hilton left a message on October 4, 2025:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We lost a good man of integrity and dignity! A fine example of what we all should be!
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Thomas Kemppainen . Plant a Tree
Krause Funeral Home & Cremation Services left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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