Thomas M. Witkiewicz

Thomas “Tom,” “Tommy,” “Catfish” Witkiewicz, 70, of Bruce, passed away peacefully at home on February 25, 2026. He was born on October 7, 1955, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Peter and Josephine (Renne) Witkiewicz.

Those who knew Tom will remember his kindness, generosity, and unmistakable sense of humor. He had a gift for making others feel welcome and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Tom’s greatest joy was spending time with his family—especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also cherished the outdoors and could often be found hunting in the woods or fishing on the water. When he wasn’t outside, Tom was usually at home tinkering with a project or helping someone solve an electrical problem. Staying busy and being there for others were simply part of who he was.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his children: Stacy (Mike) Van Den Heuvel of North Branch, MN; Dawn (Brandon) Hayden of Exeland, WI; and TJ (Cora) Witkiewicz of Luck, WI. He is further survived by his grandchildren: Damien (Nikki), Exavier, Joseph V. (Kaylee), Joseph L. (Casey), Emily, Shayla (Tucker), and Robin; and his great-grandchildren: Elijah, Elenor, and Emerlyn.

He is also survived by his godfather, Bud Renne of Belle Plaine, MN; his sisters, Lillian Farrar of Aitkin, MN, Kate Williams of Bruce, WI, Phyllis Gonsowski of Joliet, IL, Annette Witkiewicz of Bruce, WI, Caroline Witkiewicz of Rochester, NY, and Lisa Witkiewicz of Chaska, MN; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Josephine Witkiewicz; his grandson, Jesse Lueck; his brothers, David, James, and Kevin Witkiewicz; his sister, Gwen Long; and his godmother, Theresa Renne.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the VMA/American Legion Hall in Bruce, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a life well lived.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.