Thomas Waidelich Sr., age 90, of Antigo, passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at Evergreen Terrace, surrounded by his children.
Thomas was born on March 24, 1936, to Eugene and Arlene Waidelich in Antigo. On September 1, 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Meinert, and they shared 65 wonderful years together until her passing in 2021.
Tom held a personal, strong faith that showed in the way he lived his life, cared for his family, and treated others. He took pride in starting the Waidelich Insurance Group and passing along everything he knew about the business to his son, Tom Jr. and later his grandson, Josh.
Tom was an avid pilot, outdoorsman, “tinkerer”, and perfectionist on many projects around his home. He spent 35 years of his retirement wintering in the Florida Keys, where he loved hosting family on his boat, building lifelong vacation memories and passing his fishing secrets down to his son, who proudly carries on the tradition. His family will forever picture him surrounded by blue skies and ocean views, fishing pole in hand.
He is survived by his son, Thomas Jr. (Lisa) Waidelich, and his daughter, Tamara (Jack) Guenthner. “Papa” was extremely influential in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Joshua Guenthner; Courtney (Mark) Burger and their children Ila and Thomas (his namesake); Hillary (Matthew) Weberpal and their children Amelia, Madelynn, Levi, and Reece; Taylor Waidelich (Megan Arney); Mackenzie (Jesse) Maas and their children Harrison, Oliver, and Wells; and Michaela (Danial) Langer and their children Lincoln and Rowan. He is also survived by his beloved pup, Tiff, who brought him so much joy and purpose.
Tom's family gives special thanks to his dear friends and dedicated caregivers at Evergreen Terrace for their exceptional care and companionship. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to LeRoyer Hospice for the comfort, guidance, and gentle care provided to both Tom and his loved ones during this time.
"God grant that I may live to fish,
Until my dying day.
And when it comes to my last cast,
I then most humbly pray:
When in the Lord's safe landing net,
I'm peacefully asleep,
That in His mercy I be judged,
As big enough to keep."
— Author Unknown
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s honor to the Humane Society of Langlade County.
A private family celebration of his life will take place at a later date.
Bradley Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.
