Thomas J. Martin

With profound sadness, deep gratitude for a life richly lived, and unwavering faith in the promise of eternal life, we announce the passing of Thomas Jerome Martin, age 93, of Combined Locks, WI.

A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, educator, and servant of his community, Tom’s life was a testament to humility, strength, and love.

Born on May 13, 1932, to Thomas Martin and Lillian Martin, Tom grew up in Menasha with a strong sense of duty and compassion. He answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Navy and later serving in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He served in the U.S. military as a Corpsman from 1952 to 1956, demonstrating courage and honor, values that would continue to guide him throughout his life.

After returning home, Tom pursued his passion for education, earning degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, including a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Education. He dedicated nearly three decades to teaching English, first at Menominee High School in Michigan and then at Kimberly High School from 1961 to 1989. At Kimberly High School, he pioneered the CAPP program, enabling students the opportunity to earn college credits – a program that remains impactful to this day.

His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. He volunteered with the Outagamie County Jail Literacy Program, helping inmates work toward their GEDs and improve their literacy.

A man of deep faith, Tom was an active member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, where he found strength and community. He also served in the Kimberly Education Association and the Combined Locks Advancement Association, always seeking ways to uplift others.

His love for life was evident in his many talents and hobbies - he excelled in basketball, was an expert handyman, and enjoyed golf, softball, horseshoes, and bowling. Of all his many athletic accomplishments, he will always be remembered for his unstoppable hook shot in basketball.

After retirement, he enjoyed meeting once a month for breakfast with former KHS teachers and friends at Old Glory Cafe in Kimberly.

Above all, Tom’s heart belonged to his family. He was a devoted husband of 66 years to Ethel, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and an unwavering faith in God. As a father to Connie Martin (special friend of the family Susie Runaas), Dave (Paula) Martin, and Julie (Mark) DeBroux, he was a steady source of wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren – Brooke Melgren (Robert), Rachel DeBroux (fiancé Zach Thiel), Kirsten DeBroux, Jason Martin (Madi Mclaughlin), Jackson Martin, Cameren Martin (Henry Nguyen) and his great-grandson, Harvey Martin.

Tom is further survived by his sister Sylvia Lafferty, brother Stan Martin, sisters-in-law Esther Lichtenberg and Edith Tietz, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Arthur and Irene Klemp; several other family members; and his beloved brother Kenny, with whom he shared a lifelong, unbreakable bond. From childhood adventures to life’s milestones, Tom and Kenny were inseparable - more than brothers, they were true best friends.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, N8728 S. Coop Rd., Menasha, with Pastor Jesse Johnston officiating. Visitation will begin at the church at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of the service. Tom will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery. In remembrance of Tom, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church Building Fund. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

Special thanks to the staff at Little Chute Health Center and Traci from Compassus Hospice Care for the wonderful care and love they showed Tom in his final days.

We give thanks to God for the gift of Tom’s life and the many ways he blessed those around him. His faith, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.