Thomas “Tom” Kearney, age 64, of Monroe passed away on Saturday, July 19,2025 at the SSM Health Hospital in Monroe, surrounded by his loving family. Tom was born on November 19, 1960, the son of Barbara and Dan Kearney in Chicago, IL, where he grew up and lived until moving to Wisconsin in the 1990's. He graduated in 1978 from St. Benedict's High School in Chicago.
On June 7, 2008, Tom married the love of his life, Kathy Pierceall, once he finally wore her down to marriage after years of asking! Tom worked as a forklift driver for UPG Electrical for 25 years, where he was a favorite coworker and friend. He was a fan of all things Irish and Chicago, especially the Bears and Cubs.
Above all, Tom loved spending time with his family, and especially his grandsons, who always kept him on his toes with their energy and witty commentary. The grandsons continued their Grandpa's love of baseball onto the field, where he was able to enjoy watching them play countless games over the years, memories of their Grandpa in the stands the boys' will cherish forever.
Tom is survived by his wife, Kathy of Monroe; Daughters, Symone (David) Villasenor of West Dundee, IL. Jessica (Cody) Downs and their children, Brayden and Knox of Lena, IL. Amanda (Tyler) Van Elzen and their children Owen and Harrison of McFarland, WI. And Felicity Short and her children, Blake and King of Monroe, WI. Siblings, Dan (Gina) Kearney of Frankfurt, IL, their children Megan (Drozd) and Ryan, and Donna (Chuck) Garmon of North Carolina, their children Becky (Tom's favorite Goddaughter) and Adam.
Tom was the kind of man whose presence spoke volumes, even if he was a man of few words. He was strong and steady- stoic in the face of hardship- but beneath the calm exterior was a heart full of love, terrible dad jokes and unwavering care for the people he loved. He worked hard every day of his life, not for recognition, but out of devotion to his family. As a father, he led by example, to love with quiet strength and to raise a family with dedication, humor and safety. His love for Kathy was like no other, and their decades long relationship shows the deep respect, unwavering commitment and a quiet, enduring love that never faded with time. Even after so many years, they still laughed together, supported each other, and held hands like they were dating. Through the ups and downs of life, their love remained constant, something steady and beautiful that we were lucky to witness. He will be missed beyond words. "Good man."
A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held at a later date.
Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at: shgfuneralhome.net.
