Obituary
Thomas “Tom” Brewer
Thomas “Tom” Brewer, a dedicated family man and master butcher, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, at the age of 94. He leaves behind a legacy defined by hard work, vitality, and cherished family traditions. Born on December 18, 1931, to Benadicta and Owen Brewer, Tom grew up in Dubuque, Iowa. It was there, at a dance at Melody Mill, that he met the love of his life, Margaret “Peggy” Altman. They were married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on April 26, 1952, and shared 71 wonderful years together before Peggy’s passing in 2023. Dancing remained the heartbeat of their life; as avid square and ballroom dancers, they shared their love of music and the performing arts with all of their children.
Tom displayed an incredible work ethic from a young age. At just 11 years old, in order to help support his family, he went in and out of every business on Central Avenue until the owner at Mollie’s Market hired him as a floor sweeper which soon turned into an apprenticeship as a butcher. He opened his own butcher shop, Brewer’s Market, which included owning the building and apartment above it at the age of 17; a testament to his ambition and skill. He and Peggy began their life together, living in the apartment and building a foundation for their future. More than just a business, Tom’s butcher shop served as a vibrant neighborhood gathering place and a cornerstone of the community, anchoring the area with a sense of livelihood and connection where neighbors became lifelong friends. He was a master at making sausage, bratwurst, and other specialty meats. With a magical ability to turn any cut of meat into a masterpiece, he viewed mealtime as a time of connection. For him, it was about more than just food; it’s the cherished tradition of bringing people together to share a hearty, homemade meal and create lasting memories.
Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Army stateside at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. during the Korean War era. Following his service, he returned to his passion for the meat industry. His expertise and dedication led him to become a meat manager at Eagle Supermarket, eventually rising to the position of Regional Supervisor throughout Iowa, where he was highly respected for his knowledge and leadership. After retiring from the meat industry, Tom continued to stay busy in “retirement” as a regional representative for Kimberly Clark, enjoying the opportunity to connect with people across the region.
Tom believed in keeping active. Specifically enjoying his daily swims at the YMCA, camping at Yellow River and cycling across the beautiful Iowa landscape. He was incredibly proud to have participated in several RAGBRAI bike rides throughout his 60s, sharing the road and creating unforgettable memories with several of his children alongside him.
Above all, Tom will be remembered for his dedicated love and care for his family. This includes the pride and close bond he had with his grandchildren. He was a fixture in his children and grandchildren’s lives, caring for them and participating in all of their milestones. They were honored to be there walking him home with the same grace, ensuring that the man who was always there for them was surrounded by love until the very end.
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy; his parents Owen and Benadicta; seven siblings; Bernice, Dennis, Robert, William, Elmer, Owen, and Dorothy; and his son-in-law, Maurice Finn.
His legacy lives on through his seven children: Gerilyn (Henry Mueller) Brewer, Cindy Widmar, Bill (Gina) Brewer, Patti Finn, Susan Brewer, Tom (Sue) Brewer, and Steven (Kim) Brewer; 10 grandchildren; Tiffany, Stephanie, Jason, Katie, Whitney, Megan, Jack, William, Sarah and Maxwell, 11 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, including Tim Altman who always helped care for Tom and Peggy.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Hallowstone Onalaska for their outstanding care and loving service. The dignity and compassion shown to Tom was a great comfort to us all.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to St. Croix Hospice of La Crosse, WI, Hallowstone Senior Living (formerly Brookdale) of Onalaska, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at https://couleecremation.com.
My deepest condolences for the Brewer family. Thought and prayers for healing are with you all. My your Father rest in Peace.