Thomas “Tom” Bennett, age 81, of Ashippun, WI, passed away surrounded by love on January 19, 2026; his 81st birthday. He was welcomed into Heaven where his breath is no longer burdened and his spirit rests in peace.

Tom was born on January 19, 1945 in Milwaukee, WI to Leroy and Rosemary Bennett. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Kathleen “Kathy”. Together they built a loving family of three children; Michael (Pollysue), Michelle (Jaime), and Shari (Donavan); nine grandchildren, Amanda (Andrew), Crystal (Jordan), Christina, Samantha (Abel), Brandon (Kelly), Brittney (Jake), Bradley (Chloe), Camryn and Cayd; and nine great-grandchildren. Tom is also survived by his brother James “Jim” of Ohio; his sister-in-law, Susan Bennett and his nephew, Scott.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Rosemary Bennett; his in-laws, Norman and Marge Genke; his brothers, Richard and Robert; his nephew, John Bennett and his many furry friends, including Misty and Molly who perished in a fire that raged through their home while he took his last breath.

Tom was a collector at heart and a longtime seller on eBay, always searching for the next treasure. He took great pride in maintaining a perfect seller rating, and that dedication never wavered. Even in his final moments, as his daughter arrived to take him to the hospital, Tom paused to send a message to a buyer apologizing that he wouldn’t be able to ship their item that day — a small but powerful reflection of his character.

One of Tom’s greatest joys was the incredible train set he built in the basement of his home. The train set was enormous; stretching from one end of the basement to the other. Every track, scene and tiny detail reflected the pride and care he poured into it. He loved bringing his grandchildren to watch the trains come alive at the flip of a switch. Those moments became cherished family memories.

Tom also loved Ford Mustangs and spent years restoring his 1969 candy apple red Mustang GT. But above all, he loved his family and his cats. He had a special bond with his barn cat, Smokey, who rode along with him on daily golf cart rides when the weather was nice. While Smokey has not yet been located after the house fire, the family holds hope that he is safe.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital for their care and compassion during an unimaginably difficult time; especially while also learning of the loss of Tom and Kathy’s home. They are also deeply grateful for the many neighbors who helped care for Tom and Kathy over the past few years as their health declined. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Tom’s life was one of simple joys; watching football, having a beer by the campfire, golf cart rides, dinner at the Maple Inn and being at home with his wife and furry friends. His memory will live on in every train whistle or roar of a Mustang engine. He will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 26th from 10:30 AM, until the time of Memorial Service at 12:00 PM at St. Olaf Lutheran Church W653 Roosevelt Road Rubicon WI 53078 (Town of Ashippun). Hartson Funeral Home in Hales Corners is serving the family.