Obituary
Thomas W. Neary
Thomas W. Neary, 81, of La Crosse, WI, passed away on January 4, 2025 at the Tomah VA Medical Center.
Thomas was born April 13, 1943, to Wilbur and Norma (Tollackson) Neary. He was a career Army servicemember serving from 1965-1986. He served during the Vietnam war. During his time in the service, he had many jobs to include Military Police, Combat Soldier, Physical Activities Specialist, Supply room and his final job as Inspector General. He served at many installations within the US and in Europe. During one of his tours in Germany he met his wife of 58 years Heidimarie (Stolzenberg). They soon married on October 20, 1967 in Heidelberg Germany and later had 4 children. After retiring from the military, he relocated the family back to La Crosse, WI where he grew up. He worked several jobs to include Degen Bergland stock room associate, Dahl Ford detailer, Stansfield Vending driver. He also found the time to volunteer at the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Wafer and Habitat Restore. He would always sponsor 1 boy and 1 girl for Christmas through the Salvation Army and the Caring Tree at Valley View Mall.
Thomas played the drums with the local band David Kennedy and the Ambassadors. One of his favorite songs that they played was “Wooden Heart” that was also played by one of his idols Elvis Presley. Playing the drums was one of his passions that was also passed down to three of his grandchildren.
Thomas is survived by his daughters Michelle Strait, Christine (Ryan) Westpfahl, Sharleen (Erin Hollander) Neary and son Thomas A. Neary. Grandchildren: Nick Neary, Skylar (Jerrick) Strait, Tyler (Leah) Westpfahl, Jenna (Andrew) Rosenow and Mason Hollander. Great-Grandchild: Ori Westpfahl. Dog Smokey Siblings: Theodore Neary, Cecelia Loken, Juanita Neary.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Norma, sister Ellen (Rick), brothers Bobby, Billy (Connie), Bruce and in-laws Lothar and Ingeborg.
Thomas will be inurned with his furry companion, his dog Bandit, at a later date at a private family ceremony with a Celebration of Life scheduled for later in the Spring.
In lieu of flowers, Memorials to a service-related organization.
Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family at this time.
I’m very sorry for the family and friends
sending my thoughts and lots of love to you all
♡