Thomas P. Kernan

It is with profound love that we celebrate the memory of Tom’s extraordinary life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to all. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of kindness, wisdom and generosity that will forever inspire and uplift us. His sense of humor and great ability to make others smile will be sorely missed. Outgoing, friendly, quick-witted, and welcoming were an integral part of Tom’s Irish persona.

Born Oct 10, 1940, in Milwaukee Wisconsin, Tom lived a life defined by unwavering love for his family and friends, unshakable optimism, and resilience. He was always there to offer his unconditional love, support, encouragement, and guidance. As a bartender for over 45 years, he enjoyed meeting people, dispensing sage advise, sharing a laugh, and playing many games of cribbage. Golf was one of his favorite outdoor activity. Any games involving Wisconsin sports teams were a priority. He purchased three Packer tickets for Milwaukee games the day after Lombardy signed with the Packers and still has them today. Reading and watching westerns and taking naps in his recliner where a big part of his retirement days. He never turned down sweets, a Gilles’ sundae, or anything involving his grandkids.

Tom passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Oct 21, 2024 after suffering a stroke. He is survived by Karen (Allgeyer), his wife of almost 59 years, his children, Kelly (Phil) Zalog, Kathleen (Paul) Jordan, Patrick (Rachel) Kernan and beloved grandchildren Emma and Olivia Zalog, Paul and Trevor Jordan, and Jace and Ruby Kernan. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Alice (Giese) Kernan, brother, Timothy, brother-in-law, Joe Collins, and niece, Suzanne. He is further survived by his siblings, Kathleen Collins, James (Martha Ihlenfeld), William, Joseph (Mary Croasdaile), Ellen (Ward) Richter, Alice, Colleen Smith Kernan, and Brigid Brandt, spouses and a multitude of other family members.

Please join us for a beer on Tom on Sunday, Dec 22, 2024 from 1pm-4pm at J&B’s Blue Ribbon Bar, 5230 West Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Family members plan to plant trees in his honor.