Thomas (Fuzzy) Earl Mikle

     Thomas (Fuzzy) Mikle, age 73, of Forestville, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, January 28th, 2024, at his home. 

     Tom was born on April 13, 1950, in Sturgeon Bay to Don and Ruby (Bongle) Mikle. After graduating from high school, Tom enlisted in the Navy and served his country for 4 years, including time overseas. His last duty assignment was on the USS Grand Canyon. Upon returning home, he moved to Algoma and accepted a job at PBI in Sturgeon Bay, using his woodworking skills to build naval ships. His handiwork continued with his employment at Palmer Johnson to do the interior carpentry work on yachts. He always took pride in pointing out to us the boat he was working on and about the royalty or celebrity who owned it. 

     Although a man of few words, Tom was known to speak louder instead through his woodworking skills and handmade gifts. He could often be found in his workshop making cribbage boards, piggy banks, walking sticks, jewelry boxes & satchels out of leather, while listening to heavy metal music. His pastimes included scratch-off tickets, visiting the casino, puzzles, watching movies, and cooking his homemade chili, venison stew, or pickled eggs.  At Christmas you could always guarantee Tom would show up with his venison sausage, pickled eggs, and presents wrapped in newspaper for each of us with a puzzle inside.  

     Tom had a love for the outdoors and his wardrobe of flannels. He wore them year-round, and often two at a time, with one in every color. He was never seen not wearing one. He enjoyed camping, fishing and especially hunting. From rifles to compound bows to muzzleloaders, he was not only known for being an excellent shot, but also for his work and time in processing his own venison. Most of his outdoor fun was with a four-legged friend by his side, and Molly, his 3-year-old yellow lab, was without a doubt his favorite companion. 
Tom lived a simple life, one of kindness and sincerity. He cared for his family, and he never missed a Happy Birthday phone call to someone or a promised Sunday call to his brother Lee. He loved his privacy in the woods where he would stack firewood, play with Molly, and watch the deer roam.  

     Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include his daughters, Rhonda (Rick) Taff of Menasha, Sandra (Chris) Hanmann of Casco, Jennifer Mikle of Green Bay; brothers, Lee (Cathy) Mikle of North Fond du Lac, Steve (Beth) Mikle of Merrill; grandchildren, Ryan, Nathan, Trevor, Emma, Abby, Bryce, Alex, Maggie; nieces and nephews, Ryan, Matt, Angie, Sarah, Kelly and Nate; great-grandchildren Millie and Isla.  Tom will also be sadly missed by his yellow lab and best friend Molly, who was with him until the end. 

     Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Don and Ruby Mikle.

     A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

     The Schinderle Funeral Home was entrusted with the care of Thomas.  Express your sympathy, memories and pictures on Thomas's tribute page at www.schinderlefuneralhome.com

“There are no goodbyes for us. 
 Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts."

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