A Family Funeral Home

Thomas E. "Sir" Meitner

August 8, 1955 - July 14, 2020
Racine, WI

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Thomas “Sir” Meitner, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday July 14, 2020 as the result of a tragic bicycle accident. Thomas was born in Milwaukee on August 8,1955, son of Gordon and Rosemary (nee: Gehring) Meitner.

Tom graduated Nicolet High School (Class of ‘73), after which he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology and water science from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. On August 30, 1980, Tom was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan J. Hein, at St. Eugene’s Catholic Church in Fox Point.

He was a dedicated Environmental and Health Safety Manager at Modine Manufacturing for over thirty years until his retirement in 2016, and took great pride in furthering environmental protections throughout his tenure.

Tom made the most of his life while spending time with his family, cycling, fishing, woodworking, cooking, raising orchids, gardening, and experiencing nature. He was an active volunteer in his community through engagement at the Racine Zoo, River Bend Nature Center, Kid’s Cove playground construction, and leadership in Boy Scouts. He was well known for his sense of humor and brought joy to many through his hijinks. He will be best remembered for his great love and extreme devotion to his family, including selfless caregiving for both his wife and mother.

Tom will be dearly missed by his mother, Rosemary Meitner; loving wife of forty years, Susan; children, William (Gina) Meitner, Laura (Paul) Nagel; grandchildren, Piper and Simon Nagel; mother-in-law Jeanne Stauss, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Steven (Kirsten) Hein, Linda Stauss, Dawn (Mike) Hartnett, Donald (Gail) Stauss; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Gordon Meitner; brother-in-law, Dan Stauss; and father-in-law, Melvin Stauss.

Due to consideration of COVID-19, a Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held at a future date. A memorial encouraging others to enjoy the little things in nature will be determined in coming weeks. Interest in sharing donations can be directed to Laura (laurajnagel@gmail.com), and condolences can be directed to www.meredithfuneralhome.com.