Tom Westpfahl

January 20, 1938 — August 31, 2026

Posted

Tom Westpfahl, age 88, of Tomah, Wisconsin, passed away Monday, August 31, 2026, at his home surrounded by family.

Tom was born January 20, 1938. He married Phyllis Rodefer in June of 1956 and together they had four children, Debra, Connie, Tim and Sandra. They later divorced.

From his early days, Tom worked to ensure the smooth operation of the Holiday Inn as a maintenance worker, a role in which he not only excelled but also formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues. His hands were rarely still, for Tom found joy in the act of fixing and improving, making sure that guests felt at home and that the establishment was always at its best.

He enjoyed camping during the summers in Wisconsin at various campgrounds and loved going for rides to visit with his old cronies at his favorite spots.

He is survived by his children, Debra (Lowell) Prise of Tomah, Connie Westpfahl of Tomah, and Sandra (Dennis) Vlies of Holmen, grandchildren, Amanda (Brad) Bettin, Alison Prise, Josh (Erin) McGinnis and Amanda (Chad) Thiry, great grandchildren, Jordyn (Rob) Gilbertson, Danica Bettin, Evan McGinnis, Morgan McGinnis, Olivia Thiry and Bryce Thiry, special friends, Tim and Mary O’Dell, other family members, Mary (Roger) Brockman and Sharon (Howie) Sanborn, along with other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Tim Westpfahl.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Tomah Health Hospice Touch for all the wonderful support and in home care given.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at the Mount Vernon Cemetery in Tomah. The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.

 

Torkelson Funeral Home