Thomas Lee Stephan

Thomas L. Stephan, 62, of Oconomowoc, WI entered into Eternal Life on Saturday, May 24, 2025 after battling lung cancer since his diagnosis six months earlier. We will always remember his fun sense of humor, heartfelt compassion and independent spirit!

Tom was born August 19th, 1962 to Richard and Frances Stephan in Dousman, WI. He was the youngest of five children. During his youth, he served as an acolyte for services at St. Mary’s Episcopal church, was a 4-H member involved in both woodworking and gardening and helped care for the family pony, dogs and two large vegetable gardens. After attending Kettle Moraine High School, Tom enlisted in the U. S. Navy. During that time, Tom’s Naval Unit marched in the Presidential Inauguration Parade. He later began his long roofing career, which he tried to continue even after his cancer diagnosis.

Tom and Sheila’s time together began in 1991—just by chance—at a Wauwatosa bowling alley. She sent him flowers the next day, thanking him for putting a smile on her face. From that time on, they were together for 34 years.

Tom frequently visited thrift shops, flea markets and estate sales. He always said the fun was in the hunt and finding great deals! Among his hobbies, Tom had a big passion for gardening. Even while living in an apartment, he was still able to grow tomatoes by creating planters out of plastic-lined laundry baskets. Tom was a great cook and often experimented with new recipes. Some of his tasty treats included deep-fried turkey, prime rib (for those special occasions) and candied orange peels. He also enjoyed disc golfing with his friends and long walks with Daisy.

Tom was preceded in death by father, Richard Stephan; mother, Frances Stephan (nee Hopkins); brothers-in-law, Steven Jurasewicz and Michael Rolens; and precious pooches, “Stosh” and “Sophie”.

Tom is survived by his loving and dedicated wife, Sheila Miskowski and their big, beautiful dog, “Daisy”; brother, James (Barb) Stephan of Waukesha; sisters: Elaine Rolens of New Baden, IL, Kathleen Stapleton (Jeffery) of Cottage Grove, WI, and Diane Jurasewicz of Marshall, WI; nieces and nephews: Colleen (Bob) Thill of Sheboygan, WI, Jonathan (AJ) Rolens of Michigan, Melissa (David) Faught of Idaho, Adam (Marie) Stapleton of Sun Prairie, WI, and Suzanne (Dylan) Anderson of Cottage Grove, WI; along with a host of great nieces and great nephews.

Tom is further survived by his mother-in-law, Jean Miskowski of Hartford; sisters-in-law: Jeannine (Royce) Bentz of Beaver Dam, Linda (Craig) Walton of Milwaukee, and Trish (Mark) Cisewski of Iron Ridge; nieces and nephew: Ashley (Sean) Richter, Jackie (Bryan) Southard, Tiffany Fix, Jesse Fix, Kaitlyn (Dylan) Heider, Breanna Cisewski and Natalie Cisewski; along with another of host of great nieces and great nephews.

He will also be remembered and missed by his many cousins and special rooftop friends. Per Tom’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Deep appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Knouse, the medical staff of Aurora Hospital and Zilber Hospice for their loving care and concern of Tom during his final days.

Memorials in Tom's name may be directed to Sheila Miskowski to help pay expenses incurred during Tom’s cancer battle.