Thomas Willard Brendel, August 18, 1953 to December 11, 2025
Thomas Willard Brendel, age 72, passed away at home on December 11, 2025. He was born August 18, 1953 in Sheboygan to the late Willard and Helen (Block) Brendel. Tom grew up in Sheboygan and graduated from North High School. He served in the Air Force for four years and then worked various jobs as a tool and die maker, ending at Vollrath for 20 plus years. Tom loved cars, mainly his pride and joy, a 1963 Split Window Corvette. He loved spending his summers at Road America with the “Hill Gang” and spending quality time with his best friends, Danny and Karen, Ron (Nordie) and Debbie, Jimbo and Cindy, and Pat and Penny. Tom enjoyed watching the Packers and other football games. He loved spending time with friends and family. Over the years, Tom rescued and loved 3 dogs, Lucky, Buddy, and Brandi.
Tom is survived by his son Matthew (Emily) Brendel, his sister Sandy (Bob) Reinwand, his brother Ken (Jill) Brendel, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and his four-legged best friend Brandi, who never left his side. In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his sisters Ruth Smies and Barb Portschy, and his best friend Danny Bernhardt.
Tom’s family and friends are comforted by the thought that he is now able to move freely. To walk, run, and drive again. He can eat and drink what he wants without help. He is finally at peace.
A small group of Tom’s family and friends held a memorial service for him at Greenlawn Memorial Park where he was interred with military honors in a 1963 Split Window Corvette Jim Beam decanter. A celebration of life will be held later this year, details to follow in the Sheboygan Sun at a later date.
The family would like to thank the staff at Compassus, as well as Nikki, Marina, Amber, and Pastor Lorri for their care and compassion.
In honor of Tom, please consider making a donation to the Sheboygan County Humane Society.
Tom will truly be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
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